No more tired arms: SKS Germany’s electric bike pumps

Most recently, arguably the best cycling accessory company SKS Germany has initiated a revolution in how tyres are inflated. Not only did they launch an electric pump that takes away all effort from pumping a tyre after having a flat, together with Schwalbe, they have also invented a revolutionary valve. Two innovations that actually change the way cyclists inflate tyres for the better.

For generations, the hand pump has been an essential piece of cycling equipment. It is simple, dependable and never needs charging. But it also demands effort, particularly when a tyre is nearly empty or a high pressure is required. CO₂ inflators provided a faster alternative, although they rely on cartridges and offer less control over how much air goes into the tyre. The SKS Germany EMP offers a different approach. Compact, rechargeable and weighing just 151 grams, this electric mini pump puts the work in the hands of a small motor. Press a button, set your desired pressure and let the pump do the rest.

It is a small device with the potential to change a familiar part of every cyclist’s routine.

A memory function also saves the last pressure setting, making repeat adjustments even easier, properly revolutionising the way cyclists have fixed flats in the past.

The EMP combines a rechargeable battery with a digital pressure gauge. At 83 × 33 × 52 millimetres, it is small enough to fit into a jersey pocket or saddlebag. SKS estimates that one full charge is enough for up to three inflations of 700 × 28C tyres. Recharging takes around 25 minutes with the supplied USB cable. The biggest advantage is that a cyclist doesn’t suffer from tired arms anymore.

The next step: the CLIK Valve

The pump itself is only part of the story. The connection between pump and tyre has also become an area of innovation for SKS Germany, with the Schwalbe CLIK Valve offering an alternative to the familiar Presta, Schrader and Dunlop systems.

The principle is straightforward. Instead of relying on a conventional pump head that clamps or screws onto the valve, the CLIK Valve system uses a connection that clicks into place and can be released with little effort. The aim is to make inflation simpler, reduce the risk of losing air while attaching or removing the EMP, and make the connection easier to handle.

The system can be retrofitted to many existing bikes and pumps using compatible conversion parts. It is also designed to improve airflow in tubeless applications: Schwalbe claims up to 50 per cent greater airflow compared with conventional Presta valves, making inflating tyres not only easier, but also less time consuming.

EMP X CLIK

The SKS EMP can be used with the CLIK Valve by adding the SKS CLIK TEC adapter. The adapter can be fitted directly to the mini pump or attached to the extension hose. This is an important distinction: the standard EMP does not have an integrated CLIK TEC head, so the adapter is required for this connection. However, SKS Germany also has the CLIK ACE E in their catalogue, which is designed for the Schwalbe CLIK valves.

Honestly, both innovations don’t make a puncture welcome, and no innovation ever will. However, it can make the return to riding quicker, more controlled and less of a chore. SKS Germany has done exactly that.