Chain Tool: Does it matter which one I get?
07-09-07, 07:30 PM
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Chain Tool: Does it matter which one I get?
I'm looking to get a chain tool (to extract/put in rivets, etc). Is the quality of them all the same? What's a good place to get it from? (NOTE: I have a 9-speed)
For example, one of these is $6.99 the other $29.99. Will the $6.99 one work fine?
Spin Doctor Universal Chain Tool ($6.99)
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=4204
Park Tool CT-3 Screw Type Chain Tool ($29.99)
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=4204
For example, one of these is $6.99 the other $29.99. Will the $6.99 one work fine?
Spin Doctor Universal Chain Tool ($6.99)
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=4204
Park Tool CT-3 Screw Type Chain Tool ($29.99)
https://www.performancebike.com/shop/...tegory_ID=4204
07-09-07, 07:38 PM
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I use a Park Tool mini chain tool (CT-5.. about $15). I've used it on 9spd & 10spd chains with no problems. It's saved me from walking home before when a chain exploded on me. The good part about the park ones (and I guess others too) is that you can buy replacement pins for the tool itself, so if you bend it, you don't have to scrap the whole thing.
EDIT: It really depends on what you need it for. I've used mine for a couple years to put new chains on when they wear out (on several bikes) and carry it for emergencies. It's worked flawlessly.
EDIT: It really depends on what you need it for. I've used mine for a couple years to put new chains on when they wear out (on several bikes) and carry it for emergencies. It's worked flawlessly.
Last edited by grahny; 07-09-07 at 07:50 PM.
07-09-07, 07:43 PM
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If you're using it for a home shop, get the bigger tool. The chain tools with the bigger handles and cranks are much easier to use. Small chain tools should only be used in emergencies, such as on the road or trail.
07-09-07, 07:44 PM
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For home use, you can't go wrong with the Park CT-3. I've been using one for many years now. For the road, you need something much smaller...like the CT-5 which is also very good.
07-09-07, 07:45 PM
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Originally Posted by Mtn Mike
If you're using it for a home shop, get the bigger tool. The chain tools with the bigger handles and cranks are much easier to use. Small chain tools should only be used in emergencies, such as on the road or trail.
07-09-07, 07:46 PM
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07-09-07, 08:11 PM
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Jesus, there is way too many rebranding in the bike industry.
Performance Brand chain tool.
MEC's Filzer Brand Chain Tool
Same crap. It works.
Nashbar
MEC's Cyclo Hyperglide Cycle chain tool
Again, same crap.
Having worked in bike shop before, the same multitool (only difference is rebranding) from MEC's Filzer goes for $5.75CAD, Wrench Force Multi-tool $13.99CAD, and Cannondale's Trail Tool $19.99CAD. All the functions on the tools are EXACTLY the same.
For me, even though I worked at the shop at the time, I still went to MEC to buy their multitools.
For Canadians, I don't see much reason to work at a bike shop if there is a MEC nearby (if you enjoy your job like I did, that's fine, but the pay is still crap), simply because MEC's pricing on parts and items are nearly equal or less than the EP (for most items, not all).
Performance Brand chain tool.
MEC's Filzer Brand Chain Tool
Same crap. It works.
Nashbar
MEC's Cyclo Hyperglide Cycle chain tool
Again, same crap.
Having worked in bike shop before, the same multitool (only difference is rebranding) from MEC's Filzer goes for $5.75CAD, Wrench Force Multi-tool $13.99CAD, and Cannondale's Trail Tool $19.99CAD. All the functions on the tools are EXACTLY the same.
For me, even though I worked at the shop at the time, I still went to MEC to buy their multitools.
For Canadians, I don't see much reason to work at a bike shop if there is a MEC nearby (if you enjoy your job like I did, that's fine, but the pay is still crap), simply because MEC's pricing on parts and items are nearly equal or less than the EP (for most items, not all).
07-10-07, 01:12 PM
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I was in a hurry and grabbed a walmart one... not a problem yet, but only used about 10 or 15 times. Was $2.99 I think and came with some masterlinks. I wouldn't plan on using them on a roadie chain... I think their the wider BMX widths.
