Silca Tattico Bluetooth® Mini Pump

Since launching the original TATTICO, Silca received an enormous amount of interest in a mini-pump that has a gauge on it. Mini-pumps with gauges certainly aren't anything new so we began this project by working to understand the limitations of current models. After months of research and testing it became clear that not only pump form factor and size , but also accuracy and durability were limiting factors to achieving this.

 

In regards to accuracy, the problem with mini-pump gauges quickly becomes an issue of size. The gauge can't be so big that it feels bulky in a jersey pocket nor can it be too small. Much like a high-end watch, the internal mechanism of an accurate pump gauge consists of a variety of small, precision machined parts with precise movements. Also similar to a watch, the internal components of a floor pump gauge are already very small in size. As we looked at creating a gauge small enough to mount on a mini-pump, we found that as the overall size of the gauge decreased, the internal mechanism needed to be simplified and therefore accuracy decreased rapidly.  This leaves traditional mini-pump gauges generally being barely more accurate than squeezing the tire with your fingers.

 

The other issue to overcome is durability. The TATTICO is designed to be small enough to fit in a jersey pocket but it's also able to be mounted alongside a bottle cage. When mounted, the mini-pump essentially becomes part of the frame so must be able to withstand high frequency vibrations, heavy impacts and also moisture and dirt intrusion from riding in adverse conditions.  The only technology available today that can handle these conditions is wireless technology.  The TATTICO BlueTooth® gauge is isolated in a fully sealed, shock-proof and waterproof environment within the pump body where it can be expected to perform flawlessly for many years.