Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 5,559
Likes: 53
From: The 'Wack, BC, Canada
Bikes: Norco (2), Miyata, Canondale, Soma, Redline
It's not that hard to modulate how fast air goes into a tire from a tank or even directly from a compressor even on a low volume road bike tire. And pressure is pressure regardless if it comes from a tank or from your arm sweat. The only part I can see that is a concern is the bit about MAYBE catching a herniating tube before it blows. But even then a quick jab from an air line off the tank will put 10 to 20 psi in the tube and then you can inspect the bead seat for signs of any issues. We do this with a hand pump as well, no? And once you know it's good just go ahead and jam the air chuck onto the stem. The restriction of the stem is enough to ensure that the tire isn't "shocked" in any possible manner. And if you want 100 psi you can get the 100 right from the tank. There's nothing to be gained by topping up with a floor pump.
I guess to some it sounds harsh but I think it's only because we are so used to pampering the tires with a hand or floor pump. But let's not forget that we bash and bang these same tires through potholes and over road debris regularly and they don't cry for mercy. There's nothing at all we can do with a pressure limited air source even at the max pressure that will in any way come close to matching the torture that we give the tires out on the road or trail.