A year after winning Best in Show at Interbike award for the Super Pista Ultimate floor Pump, Indianapolis-based Silca continues to challenge our perception of functionality and quality of cycling accessories by launching highly functional (and highly priced) inflation devices and tools. While the show darling of the Silca booth this year was easily the brand new Pocket Impero (a compact version of the Impero Ultimate frame pump) the place was packed with a variety of artist collaborations, including a matching Speedvagen pump and frameset, a pump from the House Industries/Richard Sachs collaboration, and a collection of pumps hand painted by the master, Pegoretti. More after the jump…
The Pocket Impero is designed to address the issues that make small pumps less than functional and frustrating to operate (because there is nothing worse that a broken pump when you need it most). Functionally, it operates as a more compact version of the Impero Ultimate pump that launched at NAHBS this year. It features the same head which, while designed to nest in the crook of your head and top tube, is comfortable to grasp in operation. It also uses the same brass check valve and the same high grade Italian leather 3mm gasket as its larger brother to ensure years of smooth actuation and reliable sealing in hot conditions.
To improve grip on the pump body and protect fingers from heat at high inflation pressures, Pocket Impero has a silicone insulating sleeve. When not in use, the silicone sleeve can be moved to securely lock the pump handle into the closed position so it stays compact in your jersey pocket. Available in October for $120 MSRP.
After the initial release of Pegoretti-painted custom Super Pista Ultimate pumps at NAHBS this year, Silca has continued to offer custom one-off masterpiece pumps for online sale, showing a collection of new pieces at the booth. In addition to these offerings, Silca has partnered with builders such as Vanilla, Breadwinner, and Richard Sachs so that your new custom ride (such as the Speedvagen shown at the top) can come with a floor pump painted to match.
Last but not least was the HX-One tool set, available now at $125 MSRP from the Silca website. Loaded with premium functional (high grade steel wrenches and inserts) and experiential (the satisfying way the box snaps shut when you put it away) features, it’s sure to be the stocking stuffer for the inflation fanatic in your life this holiday season.
