Issue 160: Trailside Tools

We encounter a heck of a lot of tools for the trailside in our line of work. Not many make the grade. These are our six favourite multi-tools and (whisper it) puncture repair items that we actually choose to use.

THE POCKET PAL

Cannondale 10-in-1 Multi-tool

• Price: £21.99
• From: Saddleback
• Functions: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8mm Allen, T25, Phillips #2, valve core tool.

For something so small and light it has a very useful array of tools, including a valve core remover/tightener and 8mm Allen key for pedals. It is very inoffensive to carry and to use – nice and flat with no sharp edges. And it’s light, making it a nice item to have in a trouser pocket or hip pocket on a pack. As a tool you won’t resent carrying, and that will get you out of many situations, it fits the bill.

EVERYTHING EXCEPT INFLATION

Crankbrothers TS18 Tube Stash Tool Kit

• Price: £89.99
• From: Extra UK
• Functions: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8mm Allen, T25, T10, flat screwdriver, chain tool, 0/1/2 spoke keys, valve core tool, CO2 head, chain link storage.

This essentially comes with everything apart from a means of inflation, but there is a clip for a CO2 canister (and a Velcro™ strap for an inner tube). There are two standout aspects of this tool: firstly, it fits inside every bike front triangle that we’ve encountered (it doesn’t foul bottles or piggyback shocks). Secondly, the tools are actually good to use. Not only that, but the cylinder the tool sits in prevents it from corrosion so it retains its goodness.

LESS IS MORE

Daysaver Essential 8

• Price: £43.95
• From: Apex Distribution
• Functions: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8mm Allen, T25

This is not a tool that is intended to be comprehensive, or indeed quick/easy to use. This tool is all about maximum minimalism. It weighs bugger all (35g) and is essentially just like carrying a 6mm Allen key around. Despite its slightness, it actually does what you need 99% of the time. Pair it with a pump/CO2, chain tool and tubeless kit as and when fearful. Part of an ingenious range of repair stuff from Daysaver that’s well worth investigating.

THE ONE-STOP SHOP

OneUp Components 70cc EDC Pump Kit

• Price: £149.97
• From: OneUp Components
• Function(s): Pump (Presta only), CO2 head, tyre plug tool, 5 plugs, tyre lever, chain tool, 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8mm Allen, T25, flat screwdriver, 0/1/2/3 spoke keys, valve core tool, spare rotor bolt, chain link storage.

This packs a LOT in. What we’ve got here is a pretty comprehensive set-up including a tubeless repair tool fitted into the lower storage compartment. It’s worth spending some time at home figuring out how it all comes apart and where each function is – the 8mm is actually made up of combining the 6mm and the flat head screwdriver. Out on the trail, it’s pleasingly lacking in fiddly little bits you might lose on the ground. Everything you should ever need, stored securely and impressively fiddle-free.

OL’ FAITHFUL

Park Tool IB-2 (GT Presscamp Edition)

• Price: £17.99
• From: Freewheel
• Function(s): 1.5/2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8mm Allen, T25, flat screwdriver.

To be honest, this tool is being included almost entirely for sentimental reasons. We’re sure we’re not alone in having a knackered old rusting multi-tool that is well past its sell by date but we can’t quite bring ourselves to part from it. You can actually still purchase an IB-2 multi-tool from Park Tool and while it’s arguably rather dated in size and construction, it is one of the cheapest (decent) options out there.

GREAT (IF IT FITS YOUR FRAME)

Topeak Ninja Master+ Toolbox T20

• Price: £49.99 (plus £7.99 for bottle cage)
• From: Extra UK
• Function(s): 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8/10mm Allen, T25, T10, chain tool, chain hook, 14G/15G/Shimano/Mavic M7 spoke keys, tyre lever, flat screwdriver, Phillips screwdriver, chain pin tool, bottle opener.

As stated above, the Achilles heel of this otherwise excellent product is its compatibility with modern mountain bike frames. If you can be sure it will fit your bike (hardtails and full sussers with uncompromised front triangles are fine), then it’s a great way of having arguably the best multi-tool ever made – Topeak’s Mini 20 Pro – always on a ride, in a weatherproof and rattle-free container. All things considered, pretty good value to boot.