[Tested] – Dynaplug Air

Early this Summer, Dynaplug kindly sent us out their new Dynplug Air, a plug and CO2 kit in one. Founded in 1991, Dynaplug was designed as an easy-to-use solution for DIY tubeless tire repair for both motorized and non-motorized applications. All Dynaplug products are designed and made in the U.S.A.  Lately, the Northern California brand has been making waves in the MTB world.  Here’s what we thought of the the Air…

Details

• Tool Body Construction – Billet 6061 Aluminum, Anodized
• Dimensions – 2.5” x .625”
• Weight – 0.70 ounces
• Repair Nozzle – 303 Stainless Steel
• Plug Material – Viscoelastic Impregnated Rubber
• Plug Tip – Nonabrasive Brass and 6061 Aluminum
• $74.99
• Warranty – Lifetime

First Impressions

We were impressed immediately with the very compact size of the Dynaplug Air. With a CO2 alongside the tool, one could easily find an area on bike to mount the tool, with possible storage being within a wrapped up spare tube, saddle bag, or in our case, a small backpack. After reading the directions on usage, we felt the tool still needed to be used out on the trail to fully understand its workings.  Once we had plugged and filled a tire or two successfully, using the tool became second nature. The kit includes two threaded 16 gram CO2 cartridges. One cartridge fills 26 x 4.6 Fat Tire from 0-14psi and will inflate average tubeless mountain bike tire to over 50psi. The tool will work with all threaded 12-25 gram CO2 cartridges, although Dynaplug recommends theirs for the best performance.

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On the Trail

Our first go with the Dynaplug Air was not as successful as we hoped, though we quickly discovered that it was user error that caused our issue. Our second attempt to plug a small slice near the bead of our rear tire was successful, and a month later we’re still on the same tire with no issue. As a kit, the tool comes with 4 plugs with tapered tips and a smaller diameter plug material.  A set of 4 blunt tipped “mega plugs” for large sized holes or slices is available for an extra $19.99 – that also includes a required, larger nozzle. We tried both sizes, and they were equal as far as ease of use (provided you were trying to patch an appropriately sized hole)…

To activate the repair/inflation the user simply must insert the repair nozzle into the puncture, slowly open the regulated air valve to achieve desired pressure, then once the CO2 is drained – loosen the valve and remove the tool. The plug will hold air and seal puncture simultaneously.

Overall

The Dynaplug Air is a compact, lightweight, and easy solution for on-trail tubeless tire repair. Combining patching and inflating capabilities into one tool is a genius solution for sliced or punctured tires. Although the price is slightly steep, when you factor in the craftsmanship, a lifetime warranty and the fact that it can save you from having to pull your tire off and insert a tube, there are plenty of reasons to consider adding the Dynaplug Air to your on-bike, or in-pack tool arsenal, particularly if you’re a racer.

For more info visit: www.dynaplug.com/air