Every shop requires at least one high quality floor pump that can handle an all day, every day work load. More and more cyclists have opted for pro-level pumps as well, often after borrowing the shop pump for a quick top off or tube replacement. Park Tool supplies more bike shops with tools than any other manufacturer so it is no coincidence that the PFP-7 Professional Mechanic Floor Pump is found in so many bike shops, battle scarred and worked, but still delivering pressure and volume as required. All great shop pumps feature stout construction, along with the best head units, accurate gauges and available rebuild kits. The PFP-7 more than fits the bill.

This heavy duty floor pump features a steel base and cylinder, as well as plunger rod. The oversized steel base has two foldable footpads that stabilize the unit when on the floor or ground, but fold-up for more compact storage or travel. The base contains the flush mount pressure gauge, which is oversized for easy viewing while inflating. Flush mount gauges are better protected from accidents and this one reads accurately to 160psi, which is reasonable for the cylinder diameter and leverage. When you use a pump dozens of times a day, the handle construction is crucial. Park uses an oversized, stiff alloy core and soft rubber over-grips, as well as a slight ergonomic bend on both sides to take the stress off the hands.

The pump head on a shopquality floor pump must be easy to use, and completely effective for Presta and Schrader valves. The globalization of the bike market mandates that the Dunlop valve be considered as well. The PFP-7 head has specific Presta and Schrader fittings, which is becoming common once again. One major difference for this head is that the lever action is opposite of most pumps, even Park's consumer models. Instead of pushing the long alloy lever up, you push it down to engage the valve stem. To release after inflating, pull the lever up to unlock, then pull the head straight off the valve.

For the price, the PFP-7 is a great floor pump with shop quality features and performance. To be sure, there are other pumps out there, costing $100 or more that are excellent as well. Preferences abound, but if you are looking for a quality floor pump, supported by Park with parts and technical assistance, the PFP-7 Professional Mechanic Floor Pump is the best option under $70 that we have used.