General Cycling Discussion - Multi tool? Which one?

Is there a good Multi tool that people like?

I want one that just about does everything.

A chain tool and spoke wrentch are important.
Any good place on line to buy one?

thanks

I'm not a big fan of multi tools.

To me the issue is orienting the bulky tool when you use it. Even the simplest job, like installing a water bottle cage, can be a challenge when you only have a multi tool. I'd much rather work with individual tools.

I've got a Park MT-1, just basic but functional. Anything that can't be handled with it, I've got bus fare and a cell phone.

anything from park tools is respectable. a good cheapy can work but you get what you pay for.

I've got a Park MT-1, just basic but functional. Anything that can't be handled with it, I've got bus fare and a cell phone.

+1, I have the MT-1 also. A simple, light weight, inexpensive and amazingly effective tool.

I have the Park Tool MTB-3 (http://parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=11&item=MTB%2D3) does everything I ask of it. Retro Grouch pointed out that it is difficult to install a water bottle cage with one. I don't use a multi tool for my mechanical work. I have a set of full sized tools for that. I use a multi tool as an emergency tool to fix something so I or someone else can make it home.

Aaron:)

I have a Topeak mini 18+ but I bought it because I needed its wide range of hex wrenches and it's all one piece.

I like the Topeak Hexus. It has a chain tool, tire levers, and all the allen keys my bike needs.

I don't like the run of the mill multitools either, I have a pedro's chain tool that comes with a flat head screw driver, 5mm hex key, and has spoke wrenches built into the handle-http://www.pedros.com/products_tools.htm. I also carry a 6 in one allen wrench set, leatherman, and a small adjustable wrench in my seat bag, along with a few bucks. I find that what I carry will allow me to fix almost anything I might need to on the trail, and do so without fumbling with a bulky multitool. What i carry weighs more than multitools, but I am no weight weenie.

The Topeak Alien II has over 26 tools in a 1/2 pound package that fits in a nylon case that can fit on your belt - or in a small seat-pack. It is designed specifically for bicycles. I love mine! I have a almost complete shop at home, but this is what I carry.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Alien-26-Function-Bicycle-Tool/dp/B000FIE4AE

I believe this matches your criteria for one that will do most everything. It will. Including chain-tool and spoke-wrench.

The Topeak Alien II has over 26 tools in a 1/2 pound package that fits in a nylon case that can fit on your belt - or in a small seat-pack. It is designed specifically for bicycles. I love mine! I have a almost complete shop at home, but this is what I carry.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-Alien-26-Function-Bicycle-Tool/dp/B000FIE4AE

I believe this matches your criteria for one that will do most everything. It will. Including chain-tool and spoke-wrench.

I broke a Ksyrium ES spoke on a century last year and the Alien II's pliers broke in half when I tried to loosen the spoke. It made for a crazy projectile!

It's a beutifully engineered tool, but not as high quality as:

http://media.rei.com/media/963687.jpg

I have Crank Bros Multi-19 that I like.

Topeak Hexus/Hummer.

wahoonc and Retro Grouch are both right in their respectful, respected and respective ways.

Crank Brothers Multi-19
Most bang for the buck.
Lightest weight for the amount of tools.
Takes least amount of room in small wedge bag.
Has least flex.
Indestructible.
I personally use the Multi-10 as I don't carry a chain tool.

I have several. My favorite is the Crank Brothers.

Is there a good Multi tool that people like?

I want one that just about does everything. ...
On my long-distance bike I carry two different multi-tools, a separate spoke wrench, and (on really long rides) a separate chain tool. I ride alone usually, and my bike is a recumbent--which has a few more bolts in different locations than a standard bike does.

The two multi-tools are a Topeak Alien and a Crank Bros.

One reason I have two different tools is because sometimes you cannot do a job with only one tool--like if the bolts holding your chainrings on comes loose, one is a 5mm and the other is a 6mm. Normally you can tighten them from just one side (using one hex wrench) but sometimes the opposite side will slip. If you look at something like the Crank Bros tool shown, it is a nice tool but you can only use one tool on it at a time. Also others, like the Topeak Aliens,,,,,, it's two separate "handles" with stuff that folds out of each. You may need to use two tools at once to do something, and if those two tools are on the same "handle", then you can't. You end up needing two separate multi-tools.

The second reason is that different multi-tools can reach different things better, due to however they are designed. Sometimes something that is very easy to reach with one tool is very difficult with another, so I just pick two different tools.

The spoke wrench I carry is a Pedro 3-way. Both my multi-tools have spoke wrenches on them, but due to the size of the tools, they are a bother to use. The Pedro wrench is easy to use and is made well (so it won't chew up the spokes).

When I am going on a particularly long ride (30-50 miles one-way) I will also throw in a Shimano mini chain tool (part# TL-CN23 (http://images.google.com/images?um=1&hl=en&q=Shimano+Chain+Tool+TL-CN23&btnG=Search+Images)). I have seen a few multi-tool chain tools rip their threads out (I've done a couple and seen a few others) and have given up on them as any reliable solution. Many are cast metal with only half the thread engagement that the Shimano tool has. I also put a tiny bit of oil on the chain tool threads; most of the chain tools I've seen die in use were being used with un-lubricated threads. Coincidence? I suspect not.

-----

The only thing I don't like about most multi-tools now is that most have no way to tighten bicycle pedals by the spindles. I realize that better pedals have a hex hole in the back of the spindle, but many cheaper pedals don't. I have a Gerber Cool Tool CT41945 (http://www.epinions.com/bike-Components-All-Gerber_Cool_Tool_CT41945) and it adjusts wide enough to grab the spindle flats, but these multi-tools are out of production. I have been looking for anywhere online to buy a new one for at least four years now, and got nuthin'.

(The Cool Tool was one of the two multi-tool chain-tools I've blown out, by the by. The chain tool shaft simply didn't have nearly enough thread engagement in the wrench body to bust out a rusty chain pin)
~

Yes - I run into the "need two" problem also. My favorite problem is a loose saddle - requiring and extra 5mm hex-wrench (I think). So I've taken to carrying a folding set of hex-wrenches. And my never-fail Swiss Army. The really BIG one in a holster.

Think I'll take a look at the Crank Brother's offerings. Thanks for the tip.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=96995

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/photos/96900-96999/96995.gif

$9 for the bike. Real tools in the garage.

I have the Park Tool MTB-3 (http://parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=11&item=MTB%2D3) does everything I ask of it. Retro Grouch pointed out that it is difficult to install a water bottle cage with one. I don't use a multi tool for my mechanical work. I have a set of full sized tools for that. I use a multi tool as an emergency tool to fix something so I or someone else can make it home.

Aaron:)

I've used the MTB-7 (http://parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=11&item=MTB-7) and found there isn't much I can't do with it. It's alot easier to use the tool in the bike bag than to go get the full sized tool out of the tool box in my storage locker.

Alien II. It pretty much beats the clumsiness mentioned earlier, because it separates easily into two halves (and the tongues on the tool double as tire irons. Chain tool, spoke wrench, just about everything you might need. For big tool jobs -- pedals and headsets, you might have to stop and beg a wrench off somebody. I had to once. No problem.

Now I make certain everything is tight, and that threads that should be greased are greased and the other stuff that shouldn't be is treated with threadlocker.

Mini-tools are for roadside and trailside repairs only, not for maintence and shop repairs. I have a Topeak Alien for my MTB and a Wrench Force mini-tool for my road bike. Then I have a fully stocked tool box at home for bike repairs.

Crank Brothers M5.

The current issue of Road Bike Action (Lance on the cover) includes a comparo between seven different brands. They end up choosing the Park I-Beam as best value, Pedro's as Gram Counter's Choice and the Topeak Alien DX as Kitchen Sink Choice.

I'm not a big fan of multi tools.

To me the issue is orienting the bulky tool when you use it. Even the simplest job, like installing a water bottle cage, can be a challenge when you only have a multi tool. I'd much rather work with individual tools.


wat


a multitool is for typically compact and for trail or road use, not installs

I got a cheapy Wrenchforce multitool that actually is really nice. All the allen wrench sizes, both screwdrivers. I carry it with an adjustable wrench. If I need more than those two, I should be using a full toolkit anyways.

It's a beutifully engineered tool, but not as high quality as:

http://media.rei.com/media/963687.jpg


+1
I have one of these, and the smaller version M5. Im a tool junkie and have had a few different multi-toold in the past and Ive been very happy with my CrankBros. Of corse a little preventative maintenance and you wont have to use these much.....:thumb:

wat


a multitool is for typically compact and for trail or road use, not installs

And won't be useful if you can't use it when you need it and you're away from home. There aren't that many parts on a bicycle, and being able to use the tools you've got with you (whether they're carefully selected high quality specialized tools or a cheap multi tool) is better than finding out your backup tool won't work and you need the tool that's at home in your toolbox. Using the multi tool at home to do the basic tasks you might need to do when away from home allows me to know I can fix what I might need to if needed when I'm away from home.

Nashbar has the Crank Bros M-19 (http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=600099&subcategory=60001233&brand=&sku=17183&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=Shop%20by%20Subcat%3A%20Multi) on sale.......

I'm telling you that the Blackburn Airfix is primetime- it has basic tools and a CO2 cartridge if you're into that kinda thing- fits well into small saddlebags and works well

Nashbar has the Crank Bros M-19 (http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=600099&subcategory=60001233&brand=&sku=17183&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=Shop%20by%20Subcat%3A%20Multi) on sale.......

Thanks for the tip!

Is there a good Multi tool that people like?

I want one that just about does everything.

A chain tool and spoke wrentch are important.
Any good place on line to buy one?

thanks

Not a multi tool but quite compact and probably cheaper; everything fits into the tiny camera case including a spare tube. I've been using this same set for over 10 years and never have been stuck for lack of the proper tool while cycling. Only have had to replace the tube of glue and the case itself after wearing out in my commuter travel bag. Note the replacement bulbs for lights I haven't used in over 7 years. This kit requires little updating. Of course, it helps to ride reliable bikes.

Not a multi tool but quite compact and probably cheaper; everything fits into the tiny camera case including a spare tube. I've been using this same set for over 10 years and never have been stuck for lack of the proper tool while cycling. Only have had to replace the tube of glue and the case itself after wearing out in my commuter travel bag. Note the replacement bulbs for lights I haven't used in over 7 years. This kit requires little updating. Of course, it helps to ride reliable bikes.

Ah, but it's missing the chain tool and the bottle opener of the more specialized multi-tools. :D

I have several. My favorite is the Crank Brothers.

i like the crank bros design, but i've had to throw away two of 'em due to rust!

Not a multi tool but quite compact and probably cheaper; everything fits into the tiny camera case including a spare tube.

Here's my variation on that theme:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3070/2898072201_fc99fa91a0.jpg?v=0

Photoset with more details. (http://flickr.com/photos/ted_major/sets/72157607574018445/)

Ah, but it's missing the chain tool and the bottle opener of the more specialized multi-tools. :D

I prefer a quick draw bottle opener; always available and right at hand. Also has a pop can tab lifter too for those with easy to break finger nails.

I don't need no stinkin' chain tool when riding; only use the chain tool at home when I change out a worn chain, once a year at most

The Park MTB-3 is what works for me... I can (and have) taken a bike apart with it on the side of the road and put it back together. In fact, I've got two or three of them stashed away somewhere.

I prefer a quick draw bottle opener; always available and right at hand. Also has a pop can tab lifter too for those with easy to break finger nails.

I don't need no stinkin' chain tool when riding; only use the chain tool at home when I change out a worn chain, once a year at most

I broke a chain once... probably didn't put it back together well. So to this day I carry a chain tool on longer rides. Of course these days all my chains have master links.

Now as far as opening bottles... even a house key will work in a pinch... but there is a certain cool factor with using a multi-tool. I think Park even made a bottle opener.

http://www.parktool.com/images/products/productimages/det_BO-2_001_200768_11109.jpg

After years of field repairs with multi tools, I now use the neoprene topeak tool bag that comes with their multi tools to hold a folding allen set, a park chain tool, a park 3-way spoke wrench, and a short length of chain links.

I really like the Topeak Hexus that others have mentioned. Well put together and small.

I got this Serfas multi tool (http://www.serfas.com/product_details.asp?ID=502) last year, and plan on getting another so I don't have to swap it from the MTB and the Road bike. VERY compact, and seams to be pretty well built.

Chris

I have the Park Tool MTB-3 (http://parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=11&item=MTB%2D3) does everything I ask of it. Retro Grouch pointed out that it is difficult to install a water bottle cage with one. I don't use a multi tool for my mechanical work. I have a set of full sized tools for that. I use a multi tool as an emergency tool to fix something so I or someone else can make it home.

Aaron:)

I have this one, any trips more than 10 miles from home she comes.

I have a Crank Brothers Multi-17 that is pretty nice. I think it has a lifetime warranty too.

I'd be interested to hear of peoples' experiences with the chain tool on their multitools. Every one I've tried seems to look like a chain tool, but in practice either breaks/doesn't work. I now carry a park chain tool, works every time in the field and in the shop.

I have been using a Filzer multi tool for years and because I also work in a bike shop... it has seen much more use than what the average rider could subject one to.

I prefer to have a separate spoke tool and chain tool and both of those are also Filzer and have stood up to much rigorous use.

I have a Crank Bros. Multi-17 that I really like. I did my first chain break and reattach the other day using it and it worked pretty well. The design allows enough leverage to push out those stubborn pins :)

If you want one tool that just does everything, the Topeak Alien II is the thing. That, a pump and some patches are about as complete as you can get in a seat pack. People complain (understandably) about weight, or that it's not pretty, but it really is the most complete multitool out there. I tell every persoon I can to get one, as well as a pump, patches, helmet and lights, when they buy a new bike.

I'd be interested to hear of peoples' experiences with the chain tool on their multitools.

I've got a Park mini I carry on my mountain bike. Needed it twice but it's only one for two. The other time, when I got ready to use it, I found the replaceable pin was AWOL. I lowered the saddle and Flintstoned my bike about 5 miles out of the woods.