air pump

[oldrampy]

whats the best to use for putting air in shocks? kawasaki has pump but found a bicycle pump for a lot less. have heard not to use compressor cause of moisture.

[jestephens]

whats the best to use for putting air in shocks? kawasaki has pump but found a bicycle pump for a lot less. have heard not to use compressor cause of moisture.

The bicycle pumps generally have gauges that read too high to be useful or accurate for pumping up shocks. I used one for a couple years, but then I invested $50-60, in one made for shocks, and I LOVE it.

I also used to use an air compressor with a regulator set to my desired pressure. I'm 100% hand pump now, for accuracy and convenience.

[markclark57]

I use the same Bostich compressor that runs my nail guns and air tools. The gauge on the regulator is really accurate. :D

[ringadingh]

You should use a proper pump made for the purpose. They are called a zero loss pump. Progressive is a popular brand of zero loss pump. Using a compressor isn't a good idea at all since the shock air bladders are very small and it is easy to overfill them in a split second.

[cnc]

What Ring said and I think my progressive pump was about $35

[usranger74]

I use a "no loss" pump I bought at the local HD shop. Cost about $40

[AlabamaNomadRider]

I would not use a compressor. I don't think moisture has a lot to do with it. The pressure is your problem as stated by the others. Too much air and you won't have to worry about putting any air in them.

[ringadingh]

If you overinflate that air bladder in the shock and it blows up, its bye bye shocks.

[deacon1984]

Here is an example of one:

http://www.amazon.com/Harley-Motorcycle-Equipped-Standard-Schrader/dp/B004Y18GKM/ref=pd_sim_sbs_auto_1

[Monkeyman]

I bought mine used from a forum member. I think I paid $20 or so. WELL worth it. You can carry it with you on the road, too which is good if you plan on adding/dropping any weight while you're gone (like you pick up a hot hitchhiker).

[just call me Mr. Hibbs]

You should use a proper pump made for the purpose. They are called a zero loss pump. Progressive is a popular brand of zero loss pump. Using a compressor isn't a good idea at all since the shock air bladders are very small and it is easy to overfill them in a split second.


I use the Progressive Zero Loss pump with a 0 to 60 psi dial indicator for the shocks, also great for checking tire pressure as well.