Test: The Joe Blow floor pump series from Topeak is a bit like the VW Golf: While the models from other manufacturers change almost every year, the Joe Blow stands as a rock and is the symbol of high-quality pumps for many mechanics. We took a closer look at the top model, the Joe Blow Ace.
The Topeak Joe Blow Ace is an imposing sight: 75cm high, almost 2,5kg heavy and the brushed aluminum exterior makes an impression. We also like the pump very much in terms of feel. Even if plastic elements are installed here and there, they still make a very high-quality impression. The handle is pleasantly large, has a large rubber surface on the upper side and is ergonomically shaped overall. In any case, the screwdriver hands of our tester immediately felt comfortable.
There is also nothing wrong with the base of the Joe Blow Ace. It is a nice size and, like the handle, is generously rubberized - also on the underside. Overall, the construction ensures a really firm footing: no slipping, no wobbling. The pressure gauge integrated in the base is perhaps a bit small with a diameter of 60mm. In any case, we are a bit more used to this from the top models of the competition. The scale isn't quite optimal either: Since the large pressure range of up to 18 bar is evenly covered, the pressure can only be roughly read off in 0,5 bar increments. This fact is probably a bit annoying, especially for mountain bikers. Otherwise, the manometer also fits into the positive overall picture: good contrast and high accuracy are big plus points.
For the pump head, Topeak relies on the so-called SmartHead. The head should automatically adapt to the valve used without the need for conversion or even an adapter - at least with Schrader and Presta valves. Appropriate adapters are included for Dunlop valves, air mattresses and balls. Topeak also recommends using the included Schrader adapter for 700c tubular tires. In practice, the SmartHead works reliably and the lever can be opened and closed without much effort. However, with the combination of high pressure and Schrader valve, we sometimes have problems getting the head sealed. The only solution here is to use the appropriate adapter. The SmartHead is then 100% tight - but the adapter solution is still a bit cumbersome. On the other hand, we really liked the air release function: By pressing a small orange button on the pump head, air can be released very slowly. In this way, you can carefully approach the desired pressure.
In the pump practice, the Joe Blow Ace finally flexes its muscles. Topeak relies on a construction with two separate air pistons that can be used separately or together. It works like this: A switch with three positions is integrated in the pump handle:
1. Low pressure: Here both air pistons are used together. The air volume is huge and we inflated our 2,5″ mountain bike tire to 2 bar in record time. At 4 bar, however, this is the end.
2. Medium pressure: In this position, only the larger of the two pistons is used. The volume is still large enough for trekking tires and the maximum pressure of 8 bar is also sufficient for most applications.
3. High pressure: Only the small piston is used here. The volume is small, but the power is enormous: up to 18 bar should therefore be possible. In our test, we stop at 15 bar because we're worried about our rim. In any case, the effort required is surprisingly low in view of such high pressures.
Since you can easily switch back and forth between the three modes while pumping (if you stick to the pressure specifications), you have an incredibly versatile pump that is prepared for absolutely every application.
[pricemesh]
