

The Samurai pump: turn its head

The 'Twisthead' pump bearing the beautiful name of 'BBB Samurai BMP-50' contains more than you might think. Small and compact, it makes a good impression.
Is it a magic wand? Not really, but it can also surprise. The special thing about this 21-centimetre-long aluminium pump, which is always at hand, is its versatility. One quick turn and it's already bigger. A second turn and the little Samurai is almost the size of a sword, while remaining stable. Its telescopic system means you can pump more volume into the air chamber when the pump is fully deployed. And with the high-pressure mode, you can also re-inflate your road bike; up to nine bars should be possible.

It doesn't damage the valve
A flexible hose is hidden under the sealing cap on the pump head, the end of which is fitted with a connector for Presta and Schrader valves. So you can pump in any position without damaging the valve. Screw on, pump, done. A puncture is bad enough, there's no need to make it worse. But maybe with this aluminium pump you can still have a bit of fun. The material is pleasant to the touch and the pump sits well in the hand despite weighing just 123 grams.
Let's Twisthead again
How does it behave when you want to change modes? After a few seconds, you get the hang of it. When you switch from one mode to another, the Samurai clicks into place and remains stable. The hose cover is also watertight. Only the locking of the pump for transport is a little odd at first. The top part can simply be 'turned', so there's no need to force it. The plastic bracket supplied, which you can attach to the frame with two screws, looks relatively cheap compared to the rest - I'd never put it on my bike.
First impressions
I gave it a whirl and it was fine. There are lighter, smaller, cheaper pumps out there. But the Samurai is high quality, well thought out and gets the job done. My prediction: you won't regret its purchase.



Simple writer and dad of two who likes to be on the move, wading through everyday family life. Juggling several balls, I'll occasionally drop one. It could be a ball, or a remark. Or both.