BayAreaKiteboarding.com

Not the sexiest topic, I know, but I need to find a better way to get air into my kite. I've been using the standard plastic $35 model--over time it has gotten harder and harder to pump and at the end of this season I seriously strained my back.

Any suggestions on an alternative, or maintenance tips to make my pump easier to use? I don't really want to spend $280 on an electric pump. Part of the problem is having to bend over--really hard on the lower back especially if you already have issues. Something you could use while standing up would be awesome.

Thanks guys!

If your back is the issue they make these one way pumps that are taller. They only pump pushing downward so there is no added stress on your back pulling up. They get more pump on the downstroke than a conventional pump gets in a up/down cycle. But they are big. AND, I dont honestly know if you can buy these or if people have been making them but I see them around from time to time.

http://www.shop.pacificriversupply.com/ ... egoryId=15 Please leave it at the beach so we can use it :)

$200+ !!!! WTF ...too expensive!

I saw a dude this summer with a pump that had a square wooden frame attached to the bottom. it raised the pump a foot or two off the ground so he could just use his arms. looked like it would be easy to make with a little scrap lumber. seems like a good cheap way to get what your after.

maybe he's on here and he can post a pic...

I saw this a few months back. could be a good winter project.

http://www.thekiteboarder.com/2010/02/w ... kite-pump/

A few years back i was thinking of donating a semi=permanent bicycle powered pump. Basically a human powered compressor. I think I smell a project coming on.

http://www.google.com/products/catalog? ... IMBEPMCMAE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u88g2Tqy ... re=related

Have you done any maintenance? Unscrew it and lube it up. You can use veggie oil to be environmentally friendly.