A compressor is perhaps...

A compressor is perhaps the easiest way to keep your levels topped up, and this competitively priced inflator from Metro is a good place to start.

The device is powered by your car’s cigar lighter and the hose, lead and all adaptors are housed in the unit’s casing. The gauge appears to be accurate, but we did have trouble reading the results, as the key 28-32psi section of the scale is tiny. Going up to a peak pressure of 275psi may sound impressive, but it’s of little use to car drivers, and means using the analogue dial remains pretty hit and miss.

On a big 17-inch rim, the compressor proved effective, adding 10psi in three minutes, although the air hose could have been longer and was fairly awkward to fit. But considering its decent price, the Metro is worth checking out. The only disappointment is the supplied torch, which attaches to the unit’s front panel. The clips are ineffective, and it can easily be shaken loose. And, even at this money, we’d expect batteries for the torch to be thrown in.