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Here are the best mountain bike shock pumps you can buy.
I selected them based on my and my friends’ experiences, customer reviews, discussions on MTB forums and websites, and extensive market research.
- The best mountain bike shock pump overall is the Lezyne Shock Drive Pump.
- The best shock pump for the most demanding riders or workshop owners is the RockShox High Pressure.
- The best budget shock pump is the Pro Bike Tool Shock Pump.
In this article, you will also learn how to choose a shock pump, whether it is better to get a pump with a digital or analog gauge, and much more!
Let’s dive in.
What Are the Best Shock Pumps?
The best MTB shock pumps are those that are well-built. This means you won’t experience the weird feeling that you may break it while using it. Shock pumps should also have an easy-to-read and accurate dial, an ergonomic handle for preventing sore hands, be compatible with Presta and Schrader valves, and have a pressure release button.
NOTE: All shock pumps in this selection feature threaded heads compatible with the Schrader valve and also a pressure release button.
Lezyne Shock Drive Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 400 PSI
- Weight: 0.37 lb / 170 g
- Length: 10.16 inches / 258 mm
- Ergonomic handle
If I were to choose the best-looking shock pumps, this one would be my favorite. However, shock pumps are not just about their design, but also their functionality.
Unlike most shock pumps, this one can inflate pressures of up to 400 PSI. You can check the pressure using the analog gauge.
However, Lezyne also offers a similar shock pump with a digital gauge, so if you prefer digital gauges, you can choose that one instead.
The Shock Drive features a T-shaped ergonomic handle to ease the pressure on your palms when inflating high pressures.
Overall, this pump offers the best price-value ratio of all the shock pumps in this selection.
Also available at performancebike.com and wiggle.com
Fox Shox High Pressure Shock Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 300 PSI
- Weight: 0.45 lb / 205 g
- 360° rotating hose
While researching, I could not find many technical specifications for this pump. However, technical details are often unnecessary when the pump functions well, which is the case with this one.
This pump allows you to inflate your shock or fork to up to 300 PSI pressures. The ergonomic handle ensures that it won’t cut into your hands, even at higher pressures when resistance increases.
Additionally, the flexible hose can rotate 360°, making this shock pump incredibly user-friendly.
If you’re searching for a dependable pump that offers excellent value for its price, then look no further. This pump is the one for you.
Also available at jensonusa.com
RockShox High Volume Shock Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 300 PSI
- Weight: 0.8 lb / 360 g (0.52 lb / 235 g without a gauge)
- Frame mount included
- Folding ‘T’ shape handle
- Compatible with Schrader and Presta valves
- High-volume and high-pressure mode
This shock pump stands out from others due to its unique features. One of these features is the ‘T’ shaped folding handle, which makes the pump portable and compact, making it ideal for bike trips.
In addition, the analog gauge can be detached at any time, allowing you to use the included frame mount and take the pump with you. When you return home, simply reattach the gauge to check the pressure in your shock or tires.
This pump also has the ability to switch between high-volume and high-pressure modes, and the head is compatible with both Presta and Schrader valves.
As a result, you can use this pump to inflate your tires using the high-volume mode, but it won’t be as effective as a mini bike pump.
Also available at jensonusa.com and performancebike.com
Don’t you have a mini pump yet? Check my selection of the Best Mini Pumps for Inflating Your Tires.
Beto Bike Shock Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 300 PSI
- Weight: 0.58 lb / 264 g
- Length: 9.65 inches / 245 mm
- Frame mount included
- Compatible with Schrader and Presta valves
- High-volume and high-pressure mode
Beto shock pump offers similar features as the previous pump from RockShox. It is compatible with both Schrader and Presta valves. Thanks to this, you can also use it to inflate your bike tires.
The Beto shock pump offers similar features to the previous RockShox pump. It can inflate both Schrader and Presta valves, making it suitable for inflating bike tires.
However, its main purpose is to inflate forks and shocks. As a result, inflating tires requires a lot of effort, even when using the high-volume mode.
This shock pump comes equipped with an integrated analog gauge that is effortless to read.
The package includes a frame mount, which allows you to attach the pump directly to your bike. Alternatively, its small size makes it an ideal addition to your backpack.
The pump’s main disadvantage is the ‘I’ shaped handle, which is not ergonomic and may slip when inflating high pressures, particularly if your hands are sweaty.
Pro Bike Tool Shock Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 300 PSI
- Weight: 0.54 lb / 240 g
- Folding ‘T’ shape handle
- Good price-value ratio
The Pro Bike Tool shock pump is the most popular model they offer. Its affordability, compact size, and easy-to-read analog gauge have contributed to its popularity.
The pump has a folding ‘T’ shape handle to save space in your backpack, so it is good for your mountain bike trips as well. Its lightweight design ensures you won’t even notice it in your backpack.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The pump’s bulky head may not be compatible with shocks that have limited access to the valve.
Some users have also expressed dissatisfaction with the air bleed button position since it can be pressed accidentally while pumping.
You may also be interested in this selection of the best full suspension mountain bikes for under $2000.
RockShox High Pressure Shock Pump
Main Features
- Max pressure: 600 PSI
- Weight: 0.64 lb / 290 g
- Length: 13.39 inches / 340 mm
- Ergonomic handle
- Lower resistance at high pressures compared to other pumps
The RockShox High Pressure (600 PSI) shock pump is designed for the most demanding users. If you own a workshop, consider purchasing it for your mechanics. It will save them a significant amount of time.
While it can be used at home, its length makes it less portable than other, more compact shock pumps, making it not ideal for riding.
However, it has a lower resistance when inflating high pressures than other shock pumps. And you can read the precise pressure easily thanks to the analog gauge.
The pump’s ergonomic handle makes it easy to use without cutting into your hand.
Also available at jensonusa.com
Rockshox / Fox High Pressure Shock Pump with a Digital Gauge
Main Features
- Max pressure: 300 PSI
- Weight: 0.48 lb / 216 g
- Length: 11.38 inches / 289 mm
- 360° rotating hose
- Integrated release button
This digital shock pump is quite popular and is available from both Rockshox and Fox.
One reason for its popularity is its precise and easy-to-read digital gauge.
The pump’s ergonomic handle makes it easy to use without cutting into your hand, even when inflating at high pressures.
However, the pump’s main drawbacks are its battery life and larger size, making it less suitable for carrying in a backpack during a trip.
I recommend purchasing this pump to expand your bike tool kit and for simple fork and shock maintenance at home.
Also available at jensonusa.com and performancebike.com
| Shock Pumps | Max Pressure | Gauge | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lezyne Shock Drive Pump | 400 PSI | Analog | 0.37 lb 170 g | Check Price |
| Fox Shox High Pressure Shock Pump | 300 PSI | Analog | 0.45 lb 205 g | Check Price |
| Rockshox High Volume Shock Pump | 300 PSI | Analog | 0.8 lb 360 g | Check Price |
| Beto Bike Shock Pump | 300 PSI | Analog | 0.58 lb 264 g | Check Price |
| Pro Bike Tool Shock Pump | 300 PSI | Analog | 0.54 lb 240 g | Check Price |
| Rockshox High Pressure Shock Pump | 600 PSI | Analog | 0.64 lb 290 g | Check Price |
| Fox High Pressure Shock Pump | 300 PSI | Digital | 0.48 lb 216 g | Check Price |
My Verdict
Without a doubt, the RockShox High Pressure is the best mountain bike shock pump for demanding bikers and mechanics. It is easy to use, allowing you to inflate up to 600 PSI quickly, and is reliable.
The Pro Bike Tool Shock Pump is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a portable shock pump that can fit in your backpack or frame mount. It is compact, takes up minimal space, and is a popular and reliable option among bikers.
How to Choose the Best Shock Pump?
This buyer’s guide explains the features of bike shock pumps, allowing you to make an informed decision before purchasing.
Shock Pump Built-Quality & Size
If you’ve ever used a low-quality pump, you know how unpleasant the experience can be. You may feel like the pump could break at any moment.
Shock pumps must be constructed from durable materials, such as aluminum, due to the high pressures used in forks and shock suspensions.
Aluminum provides reliability, durability, and lightweight construction. All shock pumps listed above are well-built, ensuring your satisfaction.
It’s crucial to select the appropriate size for your needs. For instance, the RockShox High Pressure pump can inflate up to 600 PSI, but it may be too large for your backpack and less portable.
However, it requires fewer strokes to inflate the pressure you need, making it ideal for mechanics in a workshop.
If you prefer a portable shock pump, consider purchasing one without a gauge. Additionally, pumps like the RockShox High Volume feature removable gauges, providing more flexibility.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is another crucial feature of shock pumps. The handle must be ergonomic, preventing it from cutting into your hands when inflating at high pressures.
Shock pumps come with ‘T,’ ‘I,’ and ‘inverted 0’ types of handles. From my experience and discussions with mechanics, the ‘T’ and ‘inverted 0’ handles are the best. However, remember that the larger the handle, the less portable the pump becomes.
The vast majority of shock pumps feature a threaded head to create a good seal and prevent air from escaping the fork or shock. If the mini pump you’re considering has a non-threaded head, don’t buy it, as it will be useless.
While it may not be a significant factor for all bikers, consider hose length. The longer the hose, the easier it is to use.
Type of Gauge & the Maximum Pressure
Shock pumps are available with either an analog or digital gauge. I personally prefer analog gauges since they are lighter, more reliable, and don’t require battery recharging or replacement.
However, my friend, who performs maintenance on mountain bikes, prefers digital pumps. He believes they are more precise and easier to read. Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference.
Most of the shock pumps achieve a maximum pressure of 300 PSI which is enough for most mountain bikers. Yet, there are pumps like the RockShox High Pressure pump that can go as high as 600 PSI.
How Much Pressure Should You Inflate Into Your Fork and Shock Suspension?
The pressure in your fork and shock is primarily dependent on your weight. The heavier you are, the higher the pressure required. Remember to adjust the pressure if you gain weight due to bike packing, for example.
Typically, you’ll need to inflate the shock before your first ride. If you find yourself having to inflate your fork every month, something may be wrong, and you should visit your local bike shop.
Additionally, remember that the pressure may change due to outside temperature. This phenomenon is referred to as Charles’s law. Therefore, if you plan to ride in the winter, inflate the suspension slightly as pressure decreases due to the cold temperatures, and vice versa.
Mountain bike fork and shock pressures differ, but fortunately, manufacturers make it relatively easy for us. You should be able to find a label on the fork with recommended pressures. For shock pressures, visit the manufacturer’s website or check the manual that came with your new bike.
Always follow the recommended air pressures set by the manufacturer of the fork & shock.
Learn more about MTB suspensions in the following guide on How to set up mountain bike suspension.
What Types of Bike Pumps Are There?
Before I dive into the mountain bike shock pumps, let me summarize what bike pumps are there and what pumps you may need if you ride a mountain bike. There are many types of bike pumps, so it is easy to get lost among them.
Floor Bike Pumps
Floor bike pumps are the biggest type of bike pump. They are the best option if you want to inflate your bike tires quickly. Thanks to their large cylinder, they allow you to inflate a large amount of air per push. This makes them one of the best options to inflate tires when you do bike maintenance at home.
Most of the floor bike pumps are compatible with Presta and Schrader valves and can inflate pressures of around 120 PSI. There are also floor pumps that can inflate pressures above 250 PSI. You can check the inflated tire pressure thanks to an analog or digital gauge.
TIP: Check my selection of the Best Floor Bike Pumps to inflate your bike tires at home.
Mini Bike Pumps
Mini bike pumps include 3 types of pumps:
1. Mini bike pumps that fit into your saddle bag, jersey pocket, or you can attach them to the frame mount under a bottle cage. They are suitable for most cyclists, thanks to their compactness and ability to inflate the tire after you get a puncture.
2. Frame bike pumps are very similar to the previous type. However, they are slightly longer, and the best place to store them is under the top tube. Frame bike pumps are more suitable for riders who do not mind having a larger pump attached to the frame and want to inflate the bike quickly.
DON’T MISS: The Best Mini Bike Pumps selection, including comparisons with CO2 inflators and much more.
3. Shock bike pumps are used to adjust the pressure in the shock suspension of mountain bikes. They should be part of every mountain biker’s equipment so that you can adjust the shock pressure to suit your weight and riding style. If you don’t have a shock bike pump yet, make sure you get one.
What’s the Difference Between a Shock Pump and a Tire Pump?
The main difference is that tire pumps, like floor pumps, are designed to inflate a large air volume. The shock pumps can inflate a small volume of air but high pressures that go above 200 PSI.
Mountain bike forks and shocks use a Schrader valve. This means that you could theoretically inflate them with a floor pump compatible with this type of valve. But I don’t recommend it for several reasons:
- There are air leaks when removing the thumb-lock head of a floor pump from the valve. This influences the resulting sag of the fork or shock. Yet, if you use a floor pump with a threaded head (Lezyne Steel Drive), there won’t be any air leaks. The sound of the leaking air you hear once you remove the head comes from the pump itself, not from the fork or shock, as Andreas Maschke from enduro-mtb.com explained.
- Most floor pumps usually cannot inflate high pressures (above 200 PSI).
- You could damage the fork or the suspension using a floor pump.
A shock pump is a must for every mountain biker who wants to maintain their bike at home. So, how to choose them?
CO2 Inflators
You’ve probably heard of CO2 inflators, a unique tire inflation tool category. While they’re not pumps, they’re still used for inflating tires. With a CO2 inflator, you can inflate tires in just seconds, making them incredibly convenient for riders who need to quickly get back on their bike after fixing a puncture.
I explain CO2 inflators in more detail in the Best CO2 Inflators & Cartridges article. Feel free to find out more about their benefits and disadvantages.
Shock Pumps FAQ
This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.
