Bicycle mechanic review of bike multi-tools available in 2022
Top 5 Bicycle Multi-Tools In 2022
I have reviewed 5 of my most favourite bicycle multi-tools available this year. These multi-tools are great quality and from some of the most reputable manufacturers of bicycle accessories.
Photo by Lance Grandahl on Unsplash
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalise a purchase.
List of Bicycle Multi-Tools in This Article
Has your bike ever broken down while out riding a million miles from home and if you just had a few tools you could have fixed it? No? Then you’re one of the lucky ones. It’s always worth taking a few tools with you to fix the common breakdowns perhaps one of those multi-tools might work?
Ok great, lets type in bicycle multi-tool in the search bar of that giant online shop that sells everything. Argh! There’s hundreds of them, which one do i choose? are there any that are worth considering? Ok, google to the rescue.
“Bicycle multi-tools can be unique, make sure it has all the functions you’ll need for your bike”
Buying a bicycle multi-tool can be a significant investment, there are so many brands out there with price tags from cheap as chips to “why wont my wallet open?” and they are all quoting super unobtainium materials with micron precision machining.
? ? ?
So, are there any that are worth considering? Why yes there are and i have made a list of them with features, good bits and bad bits and of course links to where you can buy them.
Buying a bicycle multi-tool is something that is personal to you and your bike. You have to make a choice about the size of tool and what you are willing to carry, some can fit in a pocket while others need a cosy spot in a kit bag. What components do you have on your bike? Look at the fittings and make a list of the tools you think you would need.
Most bicycle multi-tools have a common set of functions like hex keys, torx keys and chain breakers. Some have more specialty tools like tubeless tire repair tools and plugs while others have CO2 fittings.
Look carefully and there will likely be one or two that would suit you perfectly. Its a good job i picked some of the best ones for you!
These tools i present in reverse order of preference, having said that, i would still recommend any of them if they suited your needs.
No. 5 - PRO Bike Tool 20 in 1 Bike Multi-Tool
New to the scene, Pro Bike Tools are certainly making up for it with a wide variety of cycling accessories and a strong marketing campaign.
This multi-tool boasts 20 functions as listed below, the bits are CNC machined from alloy steel. The tool is slim and compact, measuring 5x5x1cm and weighing a lightweight 137g. The flat body design makes it easy for slipping into a pocket or kit bag perfect for any cycling occasion
Tools include:
- Hex keys (mm): 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8
- Torx: T25 and T30
- Phillips Head 2 (PH2)
- Flat Head 5
- Spoke Wrench: 3.2mm/3.5mm/Mavic M7/ Mavic M9
- Wrench (mm): 8/9/10
- Chain Tool 8 and 12 speed splitter
- Valve core tool
Good Bits
- Compact and light weight
- Includes slim bag
- Alloy steel bits and aluminium body
- 360 deg tool bit movement
Bad Bits
- Poor tolerance
- Hex keys too short
- Quality may not “feel” as good as others
This tool is fairly high priced in comparison to others on the market and the list of functions are fairly generic across most brands. Its dimensions and weight make it a great choice for any cycle journey.
There was a complaint about tool tolerance but this may be an isolated incident, so take that with a pinch of salt.
The hex keys are also a bit short for hard to reach bolts but if thats not a problem on your bike then this is a reasonable choice
Verdict?
Good list of the most common functions to bicycle multi-tools but its a little on the pricy side compared to others in its class.
No. 4 - Blackburn Tradesman Multi-Tool
Blackburn has been trading for nearly 50 years! They could arguably be the oldest cycle accessory manufacturer still trading. They pride themselves on producing no nonsense smart tools and this shines through with the Blackburn Tradesman multi-tool.
Although only 18 functions this multi tool is packed with the most useful tools for modern day bikes. It includes a quick link splitter and the chain breaker can accommodate chains up to 12 speed. This tool has a great A medium weight tool styled to give it an industrial grunge look, packed with features, a worthy purchase for any kit bag.
Tools include:
- Hex keys: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8 (2/2.5/4 are L shaped)
- Torx: T25/T30
- Chain tool: 7 to 12 speed
- Spoke wrench: #0/#1/#2
- Presta valve core tool
- Disc pad spreader
- Quick link removal tool
- Quick link storage
- Flat head screwdriver
Good bits:
- Quick link splitter
- Up to 12 speed chain splitter
- Unique styling
- L shaped hex keys can be useful
- Disc pad separator
Bad bits:
- Heavy for an 18 function tool
- Smaller L shaped hex keys can be fiddly to use
- Tools can be loose
- No Phillips screwdrivers
- Rubber band instead of case, can be fiddly to remove
- Price is high in comparison to other 20 function tools.
This is a well made tool, it might not look as pretty as some others but i like the “lets get the job done” styling.
Its not the most compact tool but its by no means the bulkiest too so it will suit the majority of cyclists and can either be pocketed or stowed in a kit bag.
There are no Philips screw drivers on this tool, which can be a problem for those not riding super modern, high end bikes and may persuade you to consider alternate brands. Those smaller L shaped hex keys can be very fiddly too with the body of the tool getting in the way in some instances.
The tool is supplied with a rubber band rather than a case, this band is great for keeping the tool bits closed but is fiddly to remove.
Verdict ?
If you can live without the Philips screw driver, this tool has some great, quality, features. Worthy of purchase for the modern high end bikes.
No. 3 - LEZYNE RAP II 25 CO2 Bicycle Multi-Tool
Precision engineered with unique modern styling, Lazyne is the most expensive when it comes to multi-tools and its easy to see why, they just ooze class.
The Lazyne Rap II 25 CO2 is a 25 function multi-tool, its not the most expensive tool they have to offer but it is a great tool for the price tag with a good list of functions.
The Rap II 25 CO2 is the top of the the line in the RAP series, it has all the usual hex keys up to 8mm and 3 torx keys, not to forget there is your usual chain breaker and spoke wrenches too.
What makes this tool stand out from the rest is a CO2 dispenser tool, invaluable for running tubeless. Interestingly though you don’t get any tubeless needle and plug kits with this tool, you have to step down to the RAP II 20 CO2 but then you dispense with the flat head screwdriver, quick link and rotor truing tool.
Tools Include
- Hex Keys: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8
- Torx Keys: T10/T25/T30
- Flat head Screwdriver
- Philips screwdriver
- Quick link storage
- Steel chain breaker
- Wrench: 8/10mm
- Spoke wrench: 0/1/2/3
- Valve core tool
- Rotor truing tool
- CO2 Dispenser
Good Bits
- Looks awesome and wouldn’t be amiss in a James Bone. Movie
- CO2 dispenser is a bonus
- Great range of functions
- Chrome vanadium (Cr-V) hardened quality steel bits
- Premium tool brand with high quality precision engineering
- Longer bits for better reach
Bad Bits
- Quite expensive compared to others
- Fairly heavy at 195g
- Fiddly neoprene wrap
- No tubeless needle and plug tool
- Bulky and lumpy for pockets.
This is a really nice looking tool, its very useful too at 25 functions with lots of high quality Cr-V hardened steel bits and precision manufacturing.
Lazyne are about as premium as you get for multi-tools their prices reflect this too as the produce some of the most expensive multi-tools on the market such as their Super SV 23. One thing for certain though is you definitely get what you pay for with this brand, everything looks like it has been thoughtfully designed and assembled to create an amazing quality product.
Now after singing the praises there is one very large drawback to the RAP II 25 CO2, there is no tubeless tyre repair tools? I mean, you have the tool bits to inflate tubeless tyres but there is nothing to fix them if they get punctured? This doesn’t make sense to me as that’s one extra tool you would need to carry. Crankbrothers seemed to recognise this with their M20 so why couldn’t the king of multi-tool design?
Verdict ?
Its big bulky and beautiful, great range of tools but i would be more tempted by their Super V range as the missing tubeless tyre repair tool makes no sense to me.
Would I recommend it? Yes, its a nice tool overall snd some great functions if you don’t mind the missing tubeless repair tool.
No. 2 - Topeak P20 Mini Tool, Gold
One of the oldest cycling accessory manufacturers, there will be very few serious cyclists who have not heard of them for their great quality products. Especially their multi tools.
Their mini series are designed to be just that, they are compact and fairly light making them perfect pocket or kit bag tools. Thy may be compact but they are brimming with functions, the P20 as the name suggests has 20 functions with precision tools and an elegant forged alloy body. This is a pro level tool with a unique power link tool combined with an easy to use chain tool. This is a perfect companion for long rides.
Tools included:
- Hex tools: 2/3/4/5/6/8
- Torx: T15/T25
- Spoke wrench: 14G/15G/Mavic M7/Shimano 4.5mm
- Cr-Mo tel chain tool
- Cr-Mo Master link tool
- #2 Philips screwdriver
- Serrated Knife/saw
Good bits
- Master link tool
- Good range of spoke wrenches
- Quality Cr-V tool bits
- Extended tool bit tips
- Small and compact
- Feels solid when in use
Bad Bits
- Locking knife blade is not compatible with uk knife law for carrying without “good reason”
- Embossed Logo can feel a bit too proud when using
- No 10mm hex as previous older version
- Flat blade screw driver removed
This is a fantastic little tool, its size and functionality will suit the majority of cyclists. Topeak are renowned for their quality of products and will represent a worthy departure with your hard earned cash.
The major drawback to this product is the locking knife blade making it non compliant with UK knife law unless you have “good reason” whatever that may interpret as, to carry it in public.
Also there is no flat blade screwdriver in this model, its worth checking your bike for any slot headed screws, they are pretty rare now so you might not even miss it.
Verdict ?
Don’t think twice about buying one of these if you are happy with the knife blade and you want a compact multi tool. There is a bigger brother in the series called the P30 but you may not need all the extra functions as this one has the most common ones already.
No. 1 - Crankbrothers M20 - Multi-Tool
Crankbrothers have been in the market a long time now in comparison with other cycle accessories manufacturers. Founded in 1997 and still going strong today.
The M20 multi tool features high tensile steel Cr-V bits, it includes specialty repair tools for tubeless riders such as a tyre plug tool complete with tyre plugs in a separate removable storage case. It has a comprehensive range of functions, which as a consequence makes it a fairly bulky tool and not best suited for a pocket especially if the tube plug case is attached.
Tools include:
- Tyre plug tool
- Tyre plugs
- Valve core removal tool
- Rotor straightener
- Chain tool 8/9/10/11/12 speed
- Spoke wrench: #0, 1, 2
- Hex keys: 2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8
- Torx T10/T25
- Philips: #1/#2
- Flathead #1
Good Bits
- Solid
- Good quality steel Cr-V
- Good chain tool
- Good selection of tools
Bad Bits
- Tool bits prone to rust.
- Some QC defects reported in valve core and rotor straightener tool.
- Chain breaker deflecting under heavy load
- Bulky with tyre plug case attached
If you are a tubeless rider then this will be ideal for you, its a bit bulky but those tyre plugs in the snap on case are going to come in really handy. It has an excellent range of general function too so it will serve the majority of people well.
This tool is not for those who like to strip every last gram off their bike and kit, it will need to be carried in a kit bag due to is bulk.
There are a reports of the bits rusting, something to bear in mind if you use the tool in wet conditions. The chain breaker was reported to have deflected and here may be some minor quality control issues.
Verdict ?
Fantastic product from a long standing manufacturer. Especially great for riding tubeless. Its bulky and heavy but well worth considering to purchase.
But wait! there is one more…….
Topeak Alien X Multi-Tool
This is one of my all time favourite bicycle multi-tools but its not for everyone, its a love it or hate it opinion from some folks and I love it!
Topeak have been producing quality cycling accessories for some time now, their Alien series multi-tool represents the ultimate mobile workshop tool with a unique split body design to increase runctions and versatility.
The latest Topeak pro quality alien series multi-tool with 34 functions! the Alien X. It has a unique two piece design to allow access and full use of all the tools adding leverage when tightening bolts. The two halves can be joined using the correct tool bits to create a master link set of pliers. Considered the ultimate (and largest) bike multi tool with everything but the kettle and tea bags.
Tools include:
- Allen keys: 1.5/2/2.5/3/4/5/6/8/10
- Torx: T10/T15/T20/T25/T30
- Spoke wrenches: 14G/15G/Mavic M7/Shimano 4.5mm
- Cr-Mo chain tool
- Chain hook
- Cr-Mo master link pliers
- Super hard anodised tire lever
- #2 Philips screwdriver socket
- Serrated knife/saw
- Presta valve core tool
- Polymer disk spacer
- Secondary chain link fence
- Chain pin breaker
- Chain pin compartment
- Master link storage compartment
Good bits
- Well known premium quality brand
- Cr-V high tensile steel tools
- Mobile workshop
- Splits into two for added versatility
- Solid premium feel when working with it.
Bad Bits
- With all those tools it’s the heaviest and largest one.
- Some people might not like the polymer body
- Its one of the most expensive multi-tools
- Can be uncomfortable in the hand during high torque use
Four words, “i like this tool” i like it a lot, the shear number of functions fills me with confidence that i have at least something to help fix the majority of common issues while out riding.
The styling isn’t the most elegant but its a bit of fun with the alien style texture and decal, I personally dont mind the plastic body parts but some may be put off by it.
This tool is BIG! Its not for the gram counters most certainly and you definitely wouldn’t want this tool stashed in your pocket. It’s absolutely 100 percent a kitbag tool and it will have no problems fitting into those.
With all that bulk it can make it a little uncomfortable to use under high torque applications but thats easily fixed by using the carry pouch as a protective sheath.
Verdict ?
If you don’t mind the size or weight then get it, I absolutely recommend this tool, it’s from a top quality manufacturer and a list of functions most tool boxes would struggle to compete with.