Submitted by
Beaux Deuke
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas Date Reviewed: December 3, 2005
Favorite Trail:
bear creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
The Bike Shop..Hiram,Ga
Strengths:
compact, simple, logical design, has the T25 torx for the disc brake guys
Weaknesses:
well, I managed to break off the head of the hinge bolt but it was a little rusty and I was putting MUCH torque on it to remove a pedal-I don't consider this a weakness BTW. As opposed to other multi tools-ALL of the tools are made to be convenient to use including the chain tool. Tasteful design, durable, practical, lightweight.
Similar Products Used:
Alien tool(too heavy)
Bike Setup:
Marin Mt Vision, full XTR, Juicy 5's, DT Swiss rims, C King hubs, Thomsen stem & s-post,Terry Fly, Eggbeaters,
Bottom Line:
E-mailed Crank Brothers after breaking the bolt and they promptly got back to me to get my address so they could mail me another bolt. Excellent service! I've used this tool many times since I've had it and it's really been great. Any company that stands behind their product like this deserves my business and will continue to get it. I even switched from time-carbons to their eggbeaters which are also great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stephen Brown
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochdale, England Date Reviewed: September 4, 2005
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Has every tool that I need to carry in a single device. Lightweight. Does not rattle.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Topeak compact survival tool wedge.
Bottom Line:
This is the only tool that I need to carry (other than a pump). It is strong, lightweight and it does not rattle. The chain tool will remove the chainpin without popping it out altogether, which makes unscheduled chain repairs a lot easier.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Moy
a Weekend Warrior
from Australia Date Reviewed: June 30, 2005
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
Local Bike Shop
Strengths:
Strong, versatile, lightweight, I has everything you need! looks really cool too...
Weaknesses:
The Aluminium body gets scratched easily, besides, none at all.
Similar Products Used:
None so far.. and it seems that would be for a while...
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 hardtail full Lx with a Marzzochi Mx comp ETA (Kicks Ass!!!) WTB Weirwolf tires (Amazing grip..) and a cane creek Suspention post.
Bottom Line:
This is an excelent product if you know how to use it and you pay to it a little bit of attention...
The chain tool works real fine, I've used it twice and it didn't let me down, it doesn't take the pin off completely but don't panic! it doesn't have to, just use the screwdriver to open the chain completely (with a gentle twist inside the open chain) and do the same thing to get the new one in... it even makes it easier for it to get back inside, for the pin enters right away when you put it in place.
For the rest of the tool, its performance and durability are in certain way up to you. The same way as your bike, this also needs a little bit of maintenance.. not too much.. keep it clean and a little bit of oil won't hurt... But the most IMPORTANT thing... Keep the bolts of the tool always tight and it won't let you down !!!!!! Use two 3 mm allen keys.. that's why they are made for.... and all the pieces will be kept in place, believe me, doesn't matter how hard you press on it.
Bottom line: this is a great product, it's easy to use and it's really worth the money... you will love it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from St Louis Date Reviewed: June 26, 2005
Favorite Trail:
doesn't matter
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Ballwin Cycles
Strengths:
a lot of tools in a very compact package. even has an 8mm allen key!
Weaknesses:
chain tool looks hard to use... haven't had to use it yet
Similar Products Used:
lots
Bike Setup:
wooden frame that i hand-carved from balsa wood, with a massive general electric jet engine zip-tied onto the rear
Bottom Line:
i was able to eliminate a lof of separate tools from my pack with this tool. it really has just about everything i'd need for a basic trailside fix. not looking forward to using the chain tool, but i am very happy with the quality of the hex wrenches and the tool on the whole. i take it on every ride i go on - commuting, road, mountain.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Earthfoote
a Cross Country Rider
from Oklahoma City, OK, USA Date Reviewed: August 29, 2004
Favorite Trail:
The road less traveled
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Compact; easily-accessible tools; real spoke wrenches; comfortable to use (except the chain tool, but hey, it's a mini-tool)
Weaknesses:
Need an iron thumb for chainbreaking. No bottle opener. No 4mm hex. 8mm hex could be longer.
Similar Products Used:
Cool Tool, Topeak, some import jobbie.
Bike Setup:
GT LTS, Fox Alps shock, Rock Shox Judy FSX carbon fork, Deore LX, Gripshift 8.0 x-ray, Truvativ Stylo cranks
Bottom Line:
Great tool and it does everything that you're ever likely to need on the trail or parking lot. It lacks a tire lever, of course, but I'd rather carry and use a nylon levers instead of some well-intentioned-but-still-rim-mashing steel "Suggest-A-Tool" idea from a clever "marketing engineer tech specialist".
The chain tool works fine for me and it doesn't take much in the brain department to figure out how to make it work for various chain applications. It's a bit hard on the thumbs, though. I've used it for maintenance at home and to help two guys on the trail with serious chainsuck troubles -- performed like it should have, no worries.
Until recently, I was using some old Control Tech bolt-on skewers and the 5mm hex on this tool got quite a workout there, along with some stem/bar/seat adjustments on the trail. I really torqued it pretty good a number of times and it shows no rounding or twisting. I attempted to remove a crankarm with the 8mm hex, and although this tool just doesn't have the leverage to do that by hand, it didn't break or damage the tool when I stepped on it in another vain effort to budge the bolt (I got wise and quit before something happened to make me cuss).
One thing I'd like to see added to this tool (other than the bottle opener and a 4mm hex -- nice to have when you need it), would be some kind of slotted bar to use for straightening chainrings, etc. No one else has that, either, but it would be a great idea.
I've got no problems with this tool and I'd highly recommend it over the other designs I've seen on the market. As said below, it's not a home shop tool, but I'm pretty impressed with it. Buy it and ride happy!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jack mowatt
a Weekend Warrior
from BC canada Date Reviewed: August 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
monkeys
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
ocean cycles
Strengths:
2 years of use and it's still performing perfectly well, chain tool is the easiest breaker to use bar none
Weaknesses:
None so far!! I guess if you try useing it on a truck it might be to small but for any bike I've worked on its been fine
Similar Products Used:
park topec
Bike Setup:
giant VT1
Bottom Line:
For 20.00 its the deal,,, I'm not sure what the other testers were using it for but I can't seem to break mine I would recomend it to my friends any time
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rufudufus
a Cross Country Rider
from Corvallis, Oregon Date Reviewed: June 15, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Cyclotopia
Strengths:
Light, compact, easily fits in tiny Camelback pocket
Weaknesses:
Not much leverage on the chain tool--but you can use pliers on it for more leverage without hurting the tool. Tools don't lock Tools are short
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Too heavy with crappy fork
Bottom Line:
If you want something small and light for trailside emergencies, this is a great tool. "Small and Light" involves trade offs, such as the length of the tools noted above. That said, it works fine. It's not a shop tool. If you're on the trail and you need to tighten something that's getting loose, this will do it. If you're at home and need to break loose an overtightened bolt, buy a set of tools.
I've had no problems using the chain breaker, but I don't run Shimano 9-speed chains, which some posters say it has problems with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
paul
a Downhiller
from london Canada Date Reviewed: April 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Whistler
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
MEC
Strengths:
Kickass little tool! Perfect choice of tools, low weight, looks pretty damn cool too! I dont know about allthes guys sayin they broke it, y'kow, it's not a hammer!
Weaknesses:
Elastic thing annoying, i just took it off, an u cant use the screwdrivers to ajust the front mech
Bike Setup:
Spec Hardrock SS turned 27-speed so i can get back up the hill, deore LX gruppo and crank bros mallet C pedals (kickass!)
Bottom Line:
Get it. it wont replace your toolbox, but it'll do everything you need on a ride
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kent
a Cross Country Rider
from hong kong Date Reviewed: April 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
agressive xc
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$18.00
Purchased At:
mon kok, hong kong
Strengths:
small, light weight comes with a chain breaker
Weaknesses:
hex key are too short philips keys are sliping for troque-ing brake disc
Similar Products Used:
NA
Bike Setup:
agressive XC setup.
Bottom Line:
this tool is turely for trial side for MINOR maintance. Tools are too short, it doesn't flip around as other users said. The chain breaker really works with shimano chain(if you know how to use it).
1. no other trail-side tools with this small size and light weight 2. the chain break really works with shimano chain(if your's doesn't, please carefully check and read the manual in crank brothers web site) 3. this tool works with most trailside repairing but since the tool is too short, it will takes your more effort and time.
Who should buy it: if you have a small hand. (this tool is too small) if you bet your bike will never break down on trial and you think only MINOR maintance are need with this tool you only got a tiny backpack and no bigger place for putting a larger tools in it. if you haven't read all the comments on below
Who SHOULDN'T buy it: 1. If you have read all the comments on other users. 2. you will regard if you have a break down on trail-side and you only have this tool 3. if you are purchasing this tool to service your bike at home.
Verdict: Don't waste money on this tool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ron Pike
a Cross Country Rider
from Portsmouth, VA. USA Date Reviewed: March 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Freedom Park Williamsburg VA.
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Conte's
Strengths:
You can use it as a sinker when going fishing.
Weaknesses:
Ya right....If you do use it as a sinker it will probably fall apart dropping all the parts into the abys and leave you high and dry.
Similar Products Used:
Craftman/Toolbox
Bike Setup:
Cannondale Super V Fatty
Bottom Line:
This thing is a piece of %@^%&*($#$#. Every time I try to use it I have to look for the parts that have come apart from it's frame. Or I try to use it and it falls apart in my hands, leaving me to spend more time looking for them on the ground then it does to fix my problem! Buy it you need something to fix before you work on your bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jon
a
from Kaiserslautern, GE Active duty AF Date Reviewed: February 10, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Englwood bike shop
Strengths:
Has plenty of tools, just don't plan on using them.
Weaknesses:
Tool structure is weak... that's a weakness!!
Similar Products Used:
Tool box
Bottom Line:
I've had this tool for some time now, usually only doing minor maintenance stuff that required no real pressure with it. I decided to take off my cranks yesterday and found out that any dirty work required from this tool is a no-go. I heard a popping sound and then *BAM* all the tools fell off into my hand as the frame snapped in two. Not what I'd expect from a tool recommended by Englewood Bike Shop in Englewood, Colorado. What a load. I'll never buy CrankSmoke tools again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from London Date Reviewed: February 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Has all the necessary bits except for a tire lever. Does not have bolt wrenches that most bikes don't use anymore.
Weaknesses:
It rust after some time and wear.
Similar Products Used:
Topeak Survival Wedge kit
Bike Setup:
NRS Air '03
Bottom Line:
It has all the necessary bits that'll I'll ever need on a trail. I prefer to carry separate tire levers since those break after a few uses.
Those having problems with pushing the pin out with the chain tool should go to their website and read their instructions. I had a similar experience before till I sat a while at the trailside and figured it out eventually.
Included wrenches are more for tightening paddles I case they work themselve loose during a ride. Never happened to me before though. But doubt they can take a whole lot of torque, just enough to keep it from falling out till you get home.
I like the fact that all the pieces are together so I won't lose any along the way.
Oh, and the spoke wrench is the best design I've used so far on a multi-tool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cliff
a Cross Country Rider
from Las Vegas Date Reviewed: November 29, 2003
Favorite Trail:
single track
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
somewhere online
Strengths:
Seems to be a pretty good selection, haven't broken anything...yet. Newer version, maybe a little stronger???
Weaknesses:
Chain breaker, chain breaker
Similar Products Used:
Hodge podge of individual tools rattling around in my back pack.
Bike Setup:
One large, one small Old Trek Y design, URT, severely upgraded components (Cloud 9, Bont Race X Lite, etc). Specialized Comp Hardtail (XTR)
Bottom Line:
The bikes are all 9 speed and I use the SRAM 69 and the Sram hollowpin chains. Spend a lot of time on preventative maintenance, esp chains, cleaning and lubing (Prolube). Guess I'm way overdue for a chain break out in the boondocks. Thought I'd try the tool's mini-chain breaker at home just to see if it works OK. Bad news, it wouldn't push the pin on the 9 speed chain far enough out to easily release the link or even remove the pin with a pair of pliers!!!; needed for a Sram Power link or KMC MissingLink9 splice. And yes, I do realize the wide and narrow chains are placed on different U shaped shelves in the tool.
Never did figure out how Crank intended for a pedal masher to use this thing on chains, especially out in the field with limited tools. Sooo, since the threaded shaft won't tighten down quite far enough, and the threaded housing body it sits in looks plenty beefy for the thumb numbing push lever, I ground down the threaded hole side of the outer tool housing body with a bench grinder (a little at a time) until the pin pushing shaft would screw down a little farther, pushing the pin farther, until the pin would release by hand from the link. I figured if the outside end threads in the housing body were burred up from the grinder, I could use a small file to get the pin threads working again.
Actually it wasn't a problem, the pin presser screwed right in; and a little heavy grease on the threads helped reduce the thumb destruction pressure needed. After many uses at home, works like a champ. But I did find that if you can't seem to start the pin moving, after dislocating at least 1 of your thumbs (normally it is fairly hard to start), back off and reposition the chain. Being exactly centered on the chain pin is critical and the U shaped, "centering" chain shelf doesn't work very well. Incidently, then I decided to try the separate Park mini-tool for chains, had the same problem and same fix. Go figure..... Note: I drink only AFTER working/riding bikes.
Only 3 flamers for value and overall ratings: I bought the tool mainly for the chain breaker. I don't think it is very usable as comes from Cook, especially in the outback.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gavriel Kane
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami Florida Date Reviewed: November 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
wtvr
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Borrowed on trail
Strengths:
Cant say
Weaknesses:
Chain tool doesnt work
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
not important
Bottom Line:
I was riding on the trails, and my chain broke. Some guy rode up to me and i asked if he had a chain tool. he had the multi 17 wtvr its called, so i tried it. To push the pins out requires soo much force. The tool is not designed well at all for that. My hands were hurting like crazy and i am a pretty strong person. I pushed the pin as far as it would go, and the tool was not long enough to pop the pin out of my shimano super-narrow chain! I usually carry a topeak alien tool. if you want a good tool, topeak makes em. This tool might be alright in other aspects, but the chain tool sucks. I would never buy this tool. Topeak is heavy, but at least it works. I had to walk miles being eaten by skeeters to get to the parking lot. I am soo pissed at this tool. At least they make good pedals. When you but a multitool, you buy it for everything on it. If one part of the tool sucks, then the whole tool sucks even though the rest might work well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
pedro
a Cross Country Rider
from miami Date Reviewed: September 16, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ted's twisted trail at markam
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
price point
Strengths:
light weight, disk brake tool, 8mm hex to tighten crank arms, great warranty and customer service
Weaknesses:
flexy, first tool broke
Similar Products Used:
pedro's, trek
Bike Setup:
nrs 2, fox float rl,truvativ cranks, xtr drive train.
Bottom Line:
the first tool broke while tightening my seat post. a quik e mail to crank brothers and five days later i have a new tool. aparently the earlier models had trouble with the bolts that hold them together. the new tool has given me no trouble. i've taken of my disk rotors, crank arms, and tighten my seat post with no breakage. i wish that all component companys had as good customer service as crank brothers, they realy stand by their product, that is rare these day.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Marty
a Cross Country Rider
from Europe Date Reviewed: August 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$35.00
Strengths:
Good selection of tools, compact, (current) price, simple
Weaknesses:
Allen tools are too weak - heads deform easily. They are quite short too. Non-locking tools (more support like in Park hex wrench would be nice)
Similar Products Used:
Ritchey CPR, Blackburn, Wenger Bike Knife, etc. I usually loose my previous tools!
Bike Setup:
SC SL
Bottom Line:
OK tool but should be made sturdier. Maybe I could replace weak wrenches from some other tool?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Lawrence, KS, USA Date Reviewed: July 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
haven't found one I didn't like
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
This is compact with many tools you'd need for trailside repairs, and it has a chaintool all right there. The entire tool is metal; there's no plastic in this.
Weaknesses:
The tools don't lock open so you have to be vigilant. A cutting blade might be nice, too.
Similar Products Used:
Alien, Topeak, loose wrenches and screwdrivers, pocketknife
Bike Setup:
It's an XC bike with all the normal bits and pieces. It worked on the cruiser, too.
Bottom Line:
This is a handy tool to have. It's small enough that you can throw it in your back pocket and take a ride. Of similar tools out there, it's a good price and keeps everything in an easy to use package.
It's not a tool for big shopwork, but it's a whole lot better than taking the toolbox with you. This isn't meant to replace checking your bike before you leave home, but instead is designed to get you back home should something happen. And if I ever run across something on a ride where I need a beefier tool, it's time for me to call it a day.
I haven't had any problems with the chain tool on Shimano, SRAM, or KMC chains (3/32" or 1/8") when following the directions. It even worked to get a decades old, rusty, broken chain off of a barn-stored Schwinn a few weeks ago on a ride.
This is a good tool but it helps to remember that it's best as a trailside multitool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sebastian
a Cross Country Rider
from Sweden Date Reviewed: June 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$25.00
Strengths:
Great looks. Pretty sturdy.
Weaknesses:
8 mm and 8 mm wrenches worthless. Not as rigid as it could be.
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
'03 Stumpjumper.
Bottom Line:
One thumb up. It's a beautiful little piece, and most of the tools are good. The Allen keys work well if you don't apply too much force. The wrenches on the chain tool are a joke however.
Overall it works for all my bike puposes. I'm sure it would be possible to make this thing even more rigid, that would give it another thumb up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ove
a Cross Country Rider
from CA Date Reviewed: June 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Lots of them
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
CBO
Strengths:
Looks good, light good idea. Simple
Weaknesses:
Weak. Poor tolerances
Similar Products Used:
Alien, Ritchey, park etc
Bike Setup:
Ventana Rocks!!!!
Bottom Line:
This product seemed great sitting in my bag. Then I had to use it and it self destructed from barely any use. Will not buy again. Period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam T
a Racer
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: June 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Porcupine Rim, Moab
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$23.00
Purchased At:
Excel Sports
Strengths:
Lots of tools in one small package.
Weaknesses:
I've broken two of these (the first broke while just riding along in my saddle bag) in three uses.
Similar Products Used:
Park CT-5
Bike Setup:
Huffy UltraHeavy w/Murray LX/XT/XTR/STX components and large hamburger bike bell
Bottom Line:
If you buy this tool, go to the harware store immediately and replace all the cheapo breaks-when-you-look-at-it-funny harware with grade-A stuff. Wade reccomended this at Excel and I'll soon do so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zaphod
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: June 6, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Looks.
Weaknesses:
Fragile bolts that hold it together (in the store).
Bottom Line:
Broke on first use, nothing extreme - just a little torque using the large hex wrench. The screw head has a tiny amount of metal left after machining. The contact area beween the popped hex head and the broken threaded stub is tiny, ridiculous for the application.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard Clothier
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Performance
Strengths:
Compact for the amount of tools it contains.
Weaknesses:
Chain breaker. I didn't try the other tools.
Similar Products Used:
Park Tool CT-5 Chain Brute
Bottom Line:
I broke my Park CT-5 due to misuse so I need a new one. Saw the Micra 17 and liked all the tools in the compact size for just a few dollars more than a new CT-5. Took it home and tried the chain breaker. The threads were so sloppy I could not press the pin out of the chain. The tool would not hold the chain straight, either which compounded the problem. I see others have said the chain breaker was great. I can't recommend the purchase of this tool.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jaco modiano
a Cross Country Rider
from colombia Date Reviewed: February 14, 2003
Favorite Trail:
pelicano
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
jensonusa
Strengths:
versatile, includes a lot of allens, screwdrivers and chain tool
Weaknesses:
rusted like a cheap $.02 scrap of metal allens somewhat short a little heavy
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
C9 ZOCCHI NRS
Bottom Line:
great for the price but it shouldve all been made stainless. mine rusted so bad i had to sand the rust off from all the tools except the stainless chain tool. no longer has a silver color and my hands get rusty every time i use it. fixing broken chains on the trail is quite easy with this thing but ive had no need for this type of repair since i started using sram pc chains. shimano chains suck!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ICEAXE
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor Date Reviewed: February 13, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Has all the tools needed for the trail, light, sturdy.
Weaknesses:
Rubber band thing is kind of a pain
Similar Products Used:
Alien, Park tool
Bottom Line:
I don't know about you guys who are breaking this thing. I wouldn't want to rebuild my bike with it, but as far as stuff I would fix on the trail, this thing rocks. Some one was talking about busting pedals off an old bike... try that with any other multi tool and see what happens. Remember- this is a light weight multi tool, not a torque wrench. Nice job Crank bros.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bruce
a Cross Country Rider
from Palm Harbor, FL USA Date Reviewed: February 12, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$24.00
Purchased At:
vendor booth
Strengths:
This tool is the only multi tool you need to pack. Its light weight, and has every tool you possibly need to get you back to you camp/car. I like it for many reasons, but here are a few that sold me on this tool: The chain breaker is attached to the tool so you can’t loose it. It has a torx key for my disc breaks. The allen keys are short so you can get them into tight spaces.
Weaknesses:
none that I can see yet.
Similar Products Used:
I have the cheap alien tool. You get what you pay for with it.
Bike Setup:
’02 Rocky Mountain Instinct. Ride Rocky!
Bottom Line:
I bought this tool from a vendor at the 2003 12 hours of razorback the day before the race, hoping that I wouldn’t have to use it. On the first lap, I helped a solo rider (who had no tools with him…wtf) fix his chain problem and the tool preformed beautify. I Highly recommend the product for anyone who is doing a race series. This tool will get you back on the track and back to the pits so you can fix the problem properly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
weather expert
a Weekend Warrior
from iowa Date Reviewed: December 31, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
jenson
Strengths:
steel. compact. excellent spoke wrench. excellent chain tool. torx wrench (don't use disc but it may come handy later)
Weaknesses:
tools a bit short. frame flexes a bit.
Similar Products Used:
serfas (not too bad, just don't torque)
Bike Setup:
doesn't really matter. it's XC.
Bottom Line:
i bought this tool for the spoke wrenches/chain tool. these spoke wrenchs is one of the few designs that actually worked--they don't cut into the nipples.
other tools are no disappointments either. i'm not worried about not having tire levers on this because i always find mini tool levers hard to use and i carry separate tire levers.
the entire thing is made of steel, so i would expect it to last. wrenches are a bit short but that's the trade off for being compact.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
k
a Racer
from St. Louis, MO Date Reviewed: December 31, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Berryman Trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
chain breaker, nice size
Weaknesses:
tools too short and don't lock into place, made of a weak metal, chain breaker is a bad design. i hate this thing!
Similar Products Used:
Topeak stuff
Bike Setup:
Independent Deluxe MTB, Race Face cranks/rings, Easton Carbon Bar and Stem, XT drivetrain, Cane Creek Headset, MAVIC Crossride, Sram rocket 9.0, Avid Mag brakes, XTR Levers, Syncros Ti Post
Bottom Line:
buy something else, just doesn't hold-up or get the job done
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Davenport
a Weekend Warrior
from Dublin , TX U.S.A. Date Reviewed: November 6, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Fossil Rim in Glen Rose TX.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$22.99
Purchased At:
The Bike Rack
Strengths:
1)Strength and versatility 2)Rounded handle allows for a little tork without discomfort 3)Chain break WOW! now that's a Blessing 4)Priced at under $25
Weaknesses:
1)No locking mech for the screwdrivers
Similar Products Used:
Topeak Alien XT
Bike Setup:
GT Backwoods 96 Deore LX shifters, front derailer LX ,rear derailer XT Quadra 21 Rock Shox
Bottom Line:
Again for under $25 this is a great trail tool. The key words here are trail tool;(for minor adjustments on the trail.)And this little badboy has done just what it was desinged to do .I love this thing it has got me out of more trival problems than I can mention. The major maitanance needs to be done long before your bike even hits the trail. I've heard of some people complaining that this tool lacks the strength to get the job done. But I just don't see it .This tool will forever be found in my toolbag.Rock On Crank Bros!! Rock On !!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
sean
a Racer
from rapid town, SD Date Reviewed: September 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
storm mountain
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Two Wheeler Dealer
Strengths:
lightweight, easy to use, cheap.
Weaknesses:
construction, design, the lack of a locking system for the tools, and the metal used in the bits.
Bike Setup:
FR: Giant Warp DS1 (2002) XC: Kona Explosif (2002)
Bottom Line:
dont buy this tool. simple as that. i was doing a minor disc brake adjustment to the rotor. and half way through tightening the disc down the torx head stripped our and i'm stuck in the middle of no where with a !@#$%$^ up rotor. there is no locking method for the tools so the thing wobbles all over the place. find something better and cheaper.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dee
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta, Canada Date Reviewed: August 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
MEC
Strengths:
compact, all tools needed, light
Weaknesses:
bit hard to hold tool steady while wrenching
Similar Products Used:
park allen set
Bike Setup:
rocky hammer race
Bottom Line:
this is a great tool for the trail and isn't meant for the home. for those of you buying this tool as your only source for fixing your bike should rethink your strategy. it's meant for trail side fixes and that's it. and it works great for that. tightening bolts or adjusting brakes, no problem. as for removing cranks....are you nuts? buy some tee handle wrenches and then work on it. so for value i give it a 5 and overall a four. if they could some how work on locking the keys in when you use them then it would be perfect.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
will
a Weekend Warrior
from eugene, OR USA Date Reviewed: July 5, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
paul's bicycle way of life in eugene, OR
Strengths:
mad versatility, fascinating looking handy as hell
Weaknesses:
unwieldy as all hell, difficult to manuever or get any leverage when loosening cranks or pedals terribly fragile as other reviews note
Similar Products Used:
tool boxes
Bike Setup:
Ibis Mojo w/ Paul brakes nukeproof hubs etc.
Bottom Line:
Nice looking tool, was recommended by the bike shop boys, but after about 2 weeks of use, I'm giving it a little abuse, you know, trying to take the pedals off an old schwinn, and the sucka breaks into pieces, I nearly got my eye put out! I swear to God. I'm taking this disaster back and getting something cheaper and sturdier. It was nice to know I could true my wheels on the fly, though. Don't go buying this thing unless you're a priss with no upper body strength. I don't think I should be able to break a metal tool with my bare hands, really.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brad Herder
a Cross Country Rider
from Pittsfield, MA USA Date Reviewed: July 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Blair Witch
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
Berkshire Bike and Blade
Strengths:
Size. Quality.
Weaknesses:
Tough to use in some situations.
Similar Products Used:
Topeak Alien
Bottom Line:
Quality of the tool is excellent. I like the green rubber band to keep it from jiggling around and loosening up. The short stubby tools are an advantage in some situations like water bottle cages, but you have to do a lot of short turns. Sometimes the width of the tool itself interferes with the ability to turn a screw. I had to tighten up the screws that hold it together after a little while in order to keep it working well. When the tools were flopping around uncontrolably, the screw driver was impossible to use. Size is excellent and the tools on it are all things I'm likely to use. I have not tried the chain tool yet. Disc brake nut tightener is a plus!
I really like it's size and quality and it has rounded edges and does not hurt your hand to use a lot of pressure to really tighten up something like a crank bolt. My Topeak Alien has very sharp edges and really hurts to put a lot of pressure on it.
My favorite multi-tool!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike Erwin
a Cross Country Rider
from Oakland Date Reviewed: June 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
tamarancho
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$16.00
Purchased At:
rei
Strengths:
compact
Weaknesses:
it broke the second time i used it!
Similar Products Used:
park tool
Bike Setup:
cannondale f1000 elo lefty
Bottom Line:
This tools frame broke the second time I used it and scattered parts everywhere on the ground. I'm glad I bought it at REI and kept my reciept. I guess I'll try an Alien next.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: May 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Tuscany Trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$17.00
Purchased At:
MEC
Strengths:
Light, Compact, Strong, Good Quality, Versatile (has Torx and 8mm Hex)
Weaknesses:
Tools don't lock into place, but you can say that about most multi-tools.
Similar Products Used:
Various other Multi-Tools
Bike Setup:
Sugar 2 w/Disc's
Bottom Line:
This is NOT a shop tool, but for those repairs beside the trail. If your using it a home, do yourself a favor and buy shop tools - Your bike is worth it! I really like the "all-in-one" design, no little parts that can come off and get lost. This was the first tool I found that has both a Torx and 8mm wrench built-in. For me, I always want a multi-tool that can help fix almost anything that can go wrong on the trail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Daly City, CA. Date Reviewed: May 5, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$20.00
Strengths:
-compact -has all the tools that you need for most adjustments/repairs
Weaknesses:
-flimsy tools don't lock into position. Makes it frustrating trying to tighten bolts or screws
-hex wrenches almost rounded out after a few months' use. The last toolkit I had was this cheap one by Diamond Back and after 5 years of abuse, NONE of the hex wrenches bent or warped.
Similar Products Used:
Diamond Back mini tool kit
Bottom Line:
Highly UNrecommended. This tool is terrible. All the wrenches/tools don't lock into any position so tightening/loosening bolts/screws is a major pain. On top of that, the hex wrenches bend out of shape easily. They are almost rounded out after several month's use!
So for value, I give it a three because it does have all the tools one could ask for.
But in the end I give it one turd overall. The tool has everything you need, but it sucks to use, is flimsy, and the metal bends easily. In other words, it has all the characteristics of a tool you would never want to use in an emergency situation.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wendell
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, TX Date Reviewed: April 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
18
Strengths:
Allen wrenches work pretty well. Lots of tools.
Weaknesses:
The screwdriver is a real pain to use. Not at all well designed. It needs some sort of locking mechanism. Hard to get the wrenches out of the green rubber band. I guess the spoke tool is useful, but Im not gonna use it on a trail. It I gotta true a spoke, it is time to go have a beer.
Similar Products Used:
Nada.
Bike Setup:
You really don't want to know.
Bottom Line:
Don't buy this thing. You will get frustrated trying to use it. Especially if you have to use it very often.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
wayne foster
a Cross Country Rider
from Burlington Ontario Canada Date Reviewed: April 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Short hills
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$25.00
Purchased At:
bicycle works
Strengths:
Light,strong,quality
Weaknesses:
Rubber band retainer is very tight and a pain to remove
Similar Products Used:
zip
Bike Setup:
trek fuel 98
Bottom Line:
Very good tool. Chain pin remover works well on all chains (shimano included) if you know the correct proceedure (check manufacturer's web site above for clear instructions). Think I will replace the tight rubberband with a light weight run-of-the-mill elastic band for easier removal. Great Product overall
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from South Glastonbury, CT Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$15.00
Purchased At:
Jenson USA
Strengths:
light, well designed, cheap
Weaknesses:
NONE!!
Bike Setup:
Trek 6700 w/ some modifications
Bottom Line:
Great tool. Some people say that it doesn't work on shimano chains, but it worked fine for me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO Date Reviewed: March 13, 2002
This is a durable pump that will perform as expected. The high volume option is a valuable option, as can be the low volume/high pressure. I could even pump up my air shocks if I had to with the high pressure option. A great buy at $25, and I got it for $20.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Weekend Warrior
from Vancouver Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$19.00
Purchased At:
Supergo
Strengths:
Compact, lightweight, full set of hex wrenches Good Value
Weaknesses:
Chain tool is a bit finicky
Similar Products Used:
Cool Tool, asst. misc. wrenches
Bike Setup:
XC steel hardtail
Bottom Line:
The Multi 17 provides a complete range of hex wrenches, including the 8mm, which some tools omit (needed to tighten my RaceFace cranks). Includes a Torx wrench, which is great for those of us with disc brakes. Although the wrenches are very short, and the tool kind of wide, it can access every bolt on my bike with no problem.
The chain tool is ok for emergency use, but as a previous reviewer noted, is a bit too short in its range to fully disengage the pin (on my SRAM chain) I modified it a bit with a file and it works fine now. I also found it a bit short on leverage when cranking on a stiff pin (I tested it out on some spare, unused links, so maybe it would be easier on a chain that's been used a bit).
Overall, I love the Multi 17's lightweight, size, and selection of tools. This and a set of tire levers are all the tools I'll need on a ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David C. Menges
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO, US Date Reviewed: February 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Small, all-metal, relatively light
Similar Products Used:
Alien
Bike Setup:
Trek and Specialized mountain bikes
Bottom Line:
I compared this to an Alien on the family's four bikes, checking that the tools could access all nuts/bolts. The main failing was Multi-17's notched 8/10 mm open end "wrench"'s (on the chain tool) inability to reach nuts.
Lightest and cheapest might be individual tools, perhaps augmenting a Leatherman, and tips / sockets - but parts tend to scatter.
For now I'm sticking with the Alien, despite it's weight. Often the Alien is on sale for $25, nearly as cheap as the Multi-17.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Flyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago Date Reviewed: January 25, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$20.00
Purchased At:
REI
Strengths:
Well made from Stainless Steel. Has a torx bit for those with disc brakes. No fluff on it.
Weaknesses:
Well...there are a few....read below. I didn't see much weight difference between this and an Alien Tool.
Similar Products Used:
Alien Tool
Bike Setup:
Giant xtc se2 with lots of upgrades
Bottom Line:
Not a bad tool....bearing in mind this is designed for trail use....HOWEVER...don't bother buying this if you use a Shimano chain. The chain tool is designed specifically for SRAM chains. It works fine for those, but the pin travel is not enough for a Shimano chain, and because it is hand operated (no hex key to turn the pin) you have to be godzilla to even get a shimano pin started out of the chain, and since it doesn't have the travel to push it all the way out, which you must do with Shimano's, you are stuck!
The hex keys are fine...for most things. They are short, too short to be able to adjust the angles on XTR shifters/brake lever combos because the key is short, and the tool is wide, you cannot effective access the bolts to adjust the angles. I stopped at that point, and returned it for a refund. Might be good for some, but the chain tool was a deal breaker for me. Good value because of price...but they need to re-engineer this thing.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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