Zefal EZ Max FC CO2 Pump: The Complete Guide

A flat tyre mid-ride doesn't have to mean a long walk home. The Zefal EZ Max FC is a 2-in-1 CO2 inflator and mini pump that gives you two ways to get back on the road — fast CO2 inflation for emergencies, or a traditional hand pump when you have more time.

What is a CO2 inflator?

A CO2 inflator uses a small pressurised cartridge to inflate a tyre in seconds — far faster than a hand pump. You thread the inflator onto a standard 16g or 25g CO2 cartridge, attach it to your valve, and release the gas. A road tyre can be fully inflated in under 10 seconds.

The trade-off: each cartridge is single-use. Once it's empty, it's gone. That's why the Zefal EZ Max FC includes a built-in mini pump as a backup — so you're never completely stranded.

Key features

• Compatible with both Schrader and Presta valves
• Works with standard 16g and 25g threaded CO2 cartridges
• Built-in mini pump for backup inflation
• Compact and lightweight — fits in a jersey pocket or saddle bag
• No cartridge included — bring your own or buy separately

When to use CO2 vs the mini pump

Use CO2 when you need to get moving quickly — a puncture mid-race, a long way from home, or in bad weather. One cartridge inflates a standard MTB or road tyre to a rideable pressure in seconds.

Use the mini pump when you want to conserve your cartridge, top up pressure, or if you've already used your CO2. The mini pump is slower but unlimited.

What size CO2 cartridge do I need?

• 16g cartridge — suitable for road bike tyres (23–28mm) and smaller MTB tyres
• 25g cartridge — better for larger MTB and gravel tyres (2.0" and above)

For Peak District trail riding on a typical 26" or 29" MTB tyre, a 25g cartridge will give you a more usable pressure. A 16g will get you moving but may leave the tyre slightly soft on wider tyres.

What else should I carry?

A CO2 inflator is only useful if you can fix the puncture first. Always carry:

• A spare inner tube (the fastest fix) — or a puncture repair kit for a permanent patch
• Tyre levers to remove the tyre
• At least one CO2 cartridge

Buy the Zefal EZ Max FC from Peak Bike Station

We stock the Zefal EZ Max FC 2-in-1 CO2 pump with free UK delivery on orders over £18. Available for collection in Hadfield — useful to pick up before a ride on the Longdendale Trail.