Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump
I recently had the pleasure of testing out the Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump on my gravel biking adventures, and I must say it exceeded my expectations in every way possible. Silca has a reputation for producing high-quality cycling accessories, and the Gravelero Mini-Pump is no exception.
When you visit the Slica website, make sure to use coupon code jaylo15 for 15% off on their site.
Compact and Lightweight
One of the standout features of the Gravelero Mini-Pump is its compact and lightweight design. It easily fits in my jersey pocket or can be mounted discreetly on the bike frame using the included bracket. The pump is 9.5 inches (243 mm) long and is on 139 g.
Efficient Inflation
Despite its small size, the Gravelero Mini-Pump delivers impressive inflation performance. With a high-pressure barrel and a smooth pumping action, I was able to reach my desired tire pressure quickly and with minimal effort. The pump is designed specifically for gravel tires, and it handled both tubeless and tubed setups effortlessly.
The Gravelero Mini-Pump has 35% greater volume the Tattico and is designed to inflate up to 80 psi. The expanding hose allows you to reach between spokes or difficult to reach places. The flexible hose also allows easier inflation versus a pump that attaches directly to the valve.
The extendable hose on the Silca GRAVELERO Mini-Pump is a thoughtful and practical feature designed to enhance the overall usability of the pump.
The extendable hose is a flexible and durable component that seamlessly integrates with the pump’s design. When not in use, it neatly stows within the pump, maintaining a compact design. Also, this design ensures that the hose is protected from potential damage.
When it’s time to inflate your tires, deploying the extendable hose is a straightforward process. Simply pull the hose out from its storage position. The extension provides a good distance between the pump and the tire valve, preventing you for bumping your hand on the wheel during inflation.
The extendable hose adds a level of maneuverability to the pumping process. This is particularly beneficial when dealing with hard-to-reach valve placements, such as those found on deep-section rims. The flexibility of the hose allows for easy access, making the inflation process more convenient and user-friendly.
Place the chuck onto the valve stem then flip the lever outwards to lock the chuck. Once locked down, the chuck stays securely put on the valve stem. Flip the lever down to unlock the chuck.
After pumping the extendable hose retracts effortlessly back into its storage compartment within the pump.
Versatility in Valve Compatibility
This Gravelero Mini-Pump supports both Presta and Schrader valves, eliminating the need for adapters and ensuring compatibility with a wide range of bikes. The reversible head securely grips the valve without any air leaks, providing a reliable and efficient pumping experience.
With today’s mini pumps this is a common feature. But where Gravelero Mini-Pump excels is its ability to switch back and forth from Presta to Schrader. By unscrewing the reversible chuck, flipping it around, then screwing it back in, changing between the two valve types only takes seconds.
Durable Construction
Constructed with durability in mind, the Gravelero Mini-Pump feels robust and well-built. The materials used inspire confidence, and it has withstood the rigors of off-road riding without showing any signs of wear or deterioration. This pump is clearly designed to withstand the demands of gravel cycling.
I can attest to the Gravelero Mini-Pumps durability. I have accidentally dropped the pump onto the pavement, at speed once, a few times and the pump works perfectly still. Though banged up a little bit, the damage is only cosmetic scratches on the exterior of the pump.
The hose features a secure and adaptable connection mechanism designed to fit both Presta and Schrader valves without the need for additional adapters. The reversible head ensures a snug fit on the valve, preventing air leakage and ensuring an efficient pumping experience.
While the Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump has many positive features, no product is perfect, and there are a few aspects that some users might find less than ideal. Here are a few potential drawbacks:
- Price – The Gravelero Mini-Pump is positioned as a high-end product, and its price reflects that. Some users might find it relatively expensive compared to other mini pumps on the market. However, I believe the performance and build quality justify the cost.
- Size Limitations – Due to its compact design, the pump will require more effort and time to reach higher pressures. While it excels in portability, it may not be the quickest option for inflating tires to very high pressures. If speed is a priority, CO2 will be the quickest.
- Limited Air Volume – The smaller size of the pump means it has a limited air volume per stroke. While this is typical for mini pumps, it is larger than other pumps and will reliably fill your tires.
- No Pressure Gauge – The Gravelero Mini-Pump does not come with a built-in pressure gauge. A separate gauge to check tire pressure accurately would be required. But, while out on the road, efficiency after a flat is less of a priority than getting back up and running again. This pump will get your tires up to your desired pressure and squeezing the tire to check pressure is more than suffice.
- Mounting Bracket Challenges – Some users have reported challenges with the mounting bracket, claiming difficulties in securely attaching the pump to the bike frame. While I have not had any issues, this will highly depend on the bike’s frame geometry. Once securely mounted, the pump stays firmly in place.
It’s important to note that individual preferences and priorities may vary, and what one cyclist considers a drawback, another might see as a minor inconvenience. Despite these potential drawbacks, the Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump continues to receive positive reviews for its overall performance and build quality and I have only had positive experiences with this mini pump.
Final Thoughts
The extendable hose on the Silca GRAVELERO Mini-Pump enhances the overall convenience and functionality of the pump, making it a valuable tool for on-the-go inflation during gravel adventures. It reflects Silca’s commitment to designing products that prioritize user experience and practicality in real-world cycling scenarios.
The Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump is a must-have for any gravel cyclist seeking a reliable, compact, and efficient inflation solution. Its combination of lightweight design, durable construction, and thoughtful features make it a standout accessory in the world of mini pumps. While it may come with a premium price tag, the performance and quality of the Gravelero Mini-Pump justify the investment for serious gravel enthusiasts. I highly recommend it for anyone who values high-performance gear on all of their adventures.
If you love Silca products check out my recent review on Seat Roll Asymmetrico.
SUPPORT JAYLO CYCLING
Did you find this post useful? If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. If you have any suggestions of reviews or things you would like to see in the future contact me. My reviews are thorough and often take a significant amount of time to produce.
Please consider checking out my Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook accounts to show me support there. If you feel generous and have the ability, consider buying me a coffee to help support this site. Thank you for taking the time to check out my website. Subscribe to my newsletter too.
2 thoughts on “Silca Gravelero Mini-Pump: A Surprisingly Simple Effective Little Device”
What you forgot tell us what is the pump body made from plastic or aluminum?
Whoops, first thank you for reading and your comment. I will update the post for future readers. The body, pump handle, and the pump piston are made of aluminum. There is a plastic sleeve on the body (gray plastic piece) which is used to help keep the pump handle close when not in use.