When you get a flat on your mountain bike, a CO2 kit is the most efficient (both in size and time) way to get back up and riding. Carry this in your frame back or backpack to make sure you have an easy tire pressure pump when you need.

As a backup, we also recommend carrying the mini air pump. CO2 kits fail, unfortunately, and no one wants to be stuck out on the dirt with no air.

CO2 Kit for Mountain Bikes

For the CO2 kit, you’ll want to have:

• Cartridges

• Inflator

• Sleeve

Inflator + Sleeve

This inflator is affordable and durable. It works with both Schraeder and Presta valves. And it comes with a free sleeve.

You want the sleeve because CO2 cartridges get very cold when they’re used. The sleeve protects your hands or any skin that might touch the cartridge before it warms back up.

Note: This kit doesn’t come with CO2 cartridges—it’s just the inflator and sleeve. Make sure to buy cartridges too.

CO2 Cartridges

You can buy CO2 cartridges in bulk. Keep most of them at home, and carry one with you on your bike.

We recommend Gorilla Force cartridges. They’re compatible with the above inflator and are very affordable.

Need somewhere to store the CO2 kit? Check out our MTB frame bag recommendations.