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Mini-pump for Milkit valves

by clattering
Sun, Jan 26, 2025 10:59
3

First world problem I know, but does anyone know of a road/gravel mini pump suited to the Milkit valve (preferably high volume, low pressure)?

I've bought into the Milkit ecosystem, and have found that all my mini pumps are struggling to force enough air to open the rubber flaps at the end of the valve. Not a problem at home obviously, but my Topeak Mini Dual Pump, Birzman Mini Apogee, a Lifeline, and even the Cycplus AS2 Pro can't do the job. The Cycplus will inflate 2 psi at a time at best, before giving up, making even 40psi a lengthy chore.  

I tried removing the valve core but the pumps can't clamp on properly.

If you're new please join in and if you have questions pop them below and the forum regulars will answer as best we can.

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3 comments

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hawkinspeter | 18 hours ago
2 likes

I hadn't encountered that issue, but I've given up using the Milkit valves as I kept getting issues on deep rims with the little plastic valve extender thing inside the valve getting stuck in the rubber flaps and/or falling off the valve inner.

However, the rubber flaps should open up easily enough when the external pressure exceeds the pressure inside the tyre, so maybe your flaps(!) have got covered in sealant. Probably worth popping the tyre off and cleaning any gunk from the valve.

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clattering replied to hawkinspeter | 16 hours ago
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These are new valves, recently picked up for a deep section set, the 75mm long ones. So I suppose the sealant could have already gunked up the flaps, or I could have a weak pumping stroke (fnarr).

It's possible it's the type of mini pump I am using, and perhaps a mini track pump would generate more force. Which mini pump did you use? 

 

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hawkinspeter replied to clattering | 10 hours ago
2 likes

I used an iPump Twist a couple of times and it's not exactly designed for pushing a lot of air but didn't give me any issue apart from taking a while: https://www.ipump.jp/product/ipump-twist/

I've also used a Co2 inflator a couple of times without any problem either.

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