Heavy may receive a commission if you purchase a product through a link on this page.

5 Best Bike CO2 Tire Inflators for Flat Tires

You don’t have to be a serious cyclist to invest in a CO2 inflator. This small and lightweight tool can help pump up a flat tire and save you from a long walk home. Advantages of a CO2 inflator include the minimal amount of effort it takes to use one and the fact that the air is released quickly so that you don’t waste precious time on the side of the road. It’s also easy on the wallet.

What Are the Best Bike CO2 Inflators Available Right Now?

best co2 inflator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • One-handed operation
  • Single-turn valve system
  • Leak-free connection
Price: $19.99 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
best co2 inflator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Lightweight
  • One-handed operation
  • Lifetime warranty
Price: $17.84 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
co2 inflator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Machined aluminum alloy
  • Inflates in seconds
  • Frost burn protection
Price: $18.49 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
co2 inflator Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Aluminum construction
  • Can be used with gloves
  • Controllable valve
Price: $28.56 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Amazon Customer Reviews
  • Compatible with threaded cartridges
  • Natural sleeve leather
  • Control knob
Price: $26.41 Shop at Amazon Shop now Read our review
Our Unbiased Reviews
  1. 1. Pro Bike Tool CO2 Inflator

    Pros:
    • Compatible with Presta and Schrader valves
    • Regulated CO2 release
    • Durable aluminum alloy construction
    Cons:
    • Some find the foam insulation a bit thin
    • Doesn’t include cartridges
    • A few find the inflator valve tricky to open

    This CO2 inflator stands out for its simple one-handed operation and quick tire inflation. An innovative valve system makes the inflator compatible with Presta and Schrader valves. You don’t need to swap valve heads, either.

    CO2 release is regulated, giving you full control over how much air you put in your tires. Additionally, a threaded connection provides a tight seal and helps eliminate leaks. Machined aluminum alloy construction ensures that the inflator is designed to last. The inflator head is designed for use with 12, 16, 20, and 25-gram cartridges. It’s also easily visible thanks to its red foam rubber sleeve, and its compact size makes it easy to store in a saddle bag or pocket.

  2. 2. Genuine Innovations Air Chuck CO2 Inflator

    Pros:
    • Includes two threaded cartridges
    • Durable metal alloy construction
    • Works with Presta and Schrader valves
    Cons:
    • Some cyclists wish the grip was better
    • Can be tricky to use on longer stems
    • Lacks a cartridge sleeve

    You can use this CO2 inflator on Presta and Schrader valves. It also features a lightweight metal alloy construction and a compact design so that you can stick in your pocket without feeling weighed down. Cyclists will also appreciate the push-to-inflate technology that allows controlled inflation and one-handed operation. The inflator comes with 16 and 20-gram threaded cartridges.

  3. 3. Vibrelli Performance CO2 Inflator

    Pros:
    • Insulated cartridge sleeve and thumb guard
    • Lightweight and durable aluminum alloy construction
    • Includes glueless puncture kit
    Cons:
    • Questionable longterm durability of the plastic components
    • Release knob can be tricky to operate with cold fingers
    • Can be tough to get the sleeve fully onto the cartridge

    If you want to be completely prepared when you get a flat on your ride, consider the Vibrelli Performance CO2 Inflator and Puncture Kit. The glueless kit allows you to patch up your tire and get back on the road after it’s inflated.

    The CO2 inflator features a lightweight precision machined aluminum alloy construction along with a valve that lets you control the airflow. An insulated cartridge sleeve and thumb guard protects hands against cold burns that can occur when using a CO2 inflator. This inflator fits all threaded cartridges and is compatible with Presta and Schrader valves. It’s also corrosion resistant and comes with a lifetime warranty.

  4. 4. Lezyne Control Drive CO2

    Pros:
    • Works with threaded CO2 cartridges
    • Neoprene sleeve keeps hands from gettting cold when using the inflator
    • Compatible with Presta and Schrader valves
    Cons:
    • A bit pricey
    • Best when used with two hands
    • Some find it hard to prevent CO2 from leaking out after using the inflator

    Brass internals and a machined aluminum dispenser make this CO2 inflator a durable choice for your road or trail rides. It works with Presta and Shcrader valves and features a control knob that’s easy to twist and control. A neoprene sleeve keeps hands from getting cold. The inflator is compatible with threaded CO2 cartidges. An oversized control drive means you don’t need to remove your glove for operation.

  5. 5. Portland Design Works Shiny Object CO2 Inflator

    Pros:
    • Includes 16-gram CO2 cartridge
    • Stitched leather sleeve protects hands and minimizes noise
    • Works with Presta and Schrader valves
    Cons:
    • Valve needs to be fully closed before inserting into cartridge to prevent leaks
    • Metal nozzle gets very cold during use
    • Doesn’t come with instructions

    A 16-gram CO2 cartridge is included along with a stitched leather sleeve to protect hands and minimize noise during rides. This inflator works with Presta and Schrader valves and is compatible with threaded CO2 cartridges. A control knob allows you to regulate air flow for precise results. Other highlights include a durable alloy construction and a lifetime warranty.

See Also: