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Mountain biking offers a sense of adventure few other activities can match. Even though it can be fun and thrilling, consider a few things before buying one, like having a bike multitool that helps if something comes loose, the chain needs repair, or you need to adjust your seat. Whatever your needs, a good mountain bike multitool is a necessity. So, what are the best mountain bike multitools? Here is a short list below.
- Crankbrothers multi tool M 19
- Wotow 16-in-1 bike repair tool kit
- XCH Robots bicycle repair bag with tire pump
- NDakter bike frame bag with repair kit
- ROCKBROS 14-in-1 bike tool kit
- PXZBLG bike repair kit
In this article, we’ll cover what to look for in a mountain bike multitool and why you’ll actually need one, especially if you just got the bike and think nothing will go wrong. Lastly, we will review each multitool mentioned above so you can make the best-informed decision that you can. Overall, we hope you will keep reading for more information!
What to Look for in a Mountain Bike Multitool?
Before investing in a mountain bike multitool, ask: what should I look for? In short, don’t buy the first thing you see and end up unprepared. That said, here are some things to look for in a mountain bike multitool.
1. Versatile
A versatile multitool matters because it serves as your mechanical lifeline, letting you handle multiple issues at once, especially when you need it most.
You may not need a specific tool at one time, but it may become essential on another ride. For this reason, it is important to have a universal tool that can tackle multiple problems. Some examples of this might be as follows:
- Broken chains
- Flats and tubeless problems
- Loose bolts
- Bent rotors
- Loose disc brakes
2. Functional
If you need something fast and easy and don’t have time to rummage through a bunch of different tools to fix an issue, a multitool is a great option. In this case, a multitool is an extremely functional tool you can use anywhere, anytime. It feels ergonomic, so you can work without feeling cramped or unable to reach certain areas. Plus, fitting 8 to 20 tools into something so small is perfect for packing light and handling any outdoor biking needs.
3. Durable
You don’t want something flimsy that breaks along the way. That’s why it is important to have something durable that can withstand pressure and heavy use, especially if you need it often.
A durable multitool will also last a long time, so you get your money’s worth. Durability means it is made from high-quality materials, so you don’t have to worry about rust or wear for a long time. A long-lasting tool usually has lockable components that help keep you and your belongings safe. After all, no one wants something that comes apart easily!
4. Easy to Use
Some multitools are hard to use because they’re bulky or use complex mechanisms. For example, many multitools pack too many items into one area, making them hard to use.
On top of that, if you don’t know how to use the mechanism properly, it can be hard to use. Either way, it is important to find a multitool that suits your needs and is easy to use for any issues you might have.
5. Portable
Like ease of use, some multitools may be harder to carry around than high-quality, lightweight ones. Plus, some multitools don’t fit in a pocket, so if any mechanisms come loose, it can be annoying to put them back together.
Why Would You Need a Mountain Bike Multitool?
There are many reasons why you may need a mountain bike multitool. Mountain biking isn’t for the weak, with multiple jumps, hoops, rough terrain, and more. Because of this, it is crucial to stay prepared for anything, since you’ll likely need to do ongoing maintenance.
1. Broken Spokes
Spokes are essentially the metal portion in the middle of a wheel. When one breaks, the wheel will wobble, the broken part may rub against the brake, or it may cause other spokes to break, making you work harder. With a multitool, you can fix these issues as soon as they happen, making things much easier and less costly in the future.
2. Loose Components or Bolts
Whether you’re at home or out in the wilderness, something will eventually come loose. Thankfully, this is usually an easy fix, unless you lose something valuable. In that case, check every part of your mountain bike before and after riding to make sure nothing comes loose. If it is, then you know what to do!
3. Dirt That Causes Creaks Between Components
If dirt gets on your bike in certain areas, it can slow it down or make it run worse. You can use a multitool for many different tasks. Here are some examples:
- Use an Allen wrench to pick rocks out of the pedal springs.
- Use a flat Allen key or screwdriver to scrape out mud and packed debris.
- Use the multitool to check and fix any grit-induced areas (that act like a grinding paste) and high-vibration areas where dirt may accumulate.
4. The Chain Broke
Suppose you are riding in the mountains and the chain snapped loose. In that case, your multitool should include a chain breaker. If it doesn’t, we recommend getting one that does, since bike chains commonly break. You can use a multitool for emergency fixes, or pair it with a quick link or master link, which is recommended for chain repairs.
5. Snapped Derailleur Hanger
Although a multitool can’t fully fix a snapped derailleur hanger, it can create an emergency single-speed conversion so you can still coast or ride the journey out instead of walking. This will require an Allen key and chain breaker, so keep that in mind beforehand.
What Are the Best Mountain Bike Multitools?
To make things easier, we have done a lot of research on the best mountain bike multitools. Below are overviews of the best options.
1. Crankbrothers Multi Tool M 19
For a versatile multitool, look no further than the Crankbrothers Multi Tool M19. This specific device is relatively compact and fits well in bike pouches. The ergonomic design makes it easy to use in hard-to-reach places. Most customers find this multitool lightweight, while others may find it heavy.
It is well worth the money with all of the components provided, which include the following:
- Hex wrenches: #2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 8
- Open wrenches (mm): 8 & 10
- Spoke wrench: #0, 1, 2, 3
- Screwdrivers: Philips #1 & 2; Flat #2
- Torx: T-10 & T-26
- Chain tool: 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 speed compatible
2. Wotow 16-in-1 Bike Repair Tool Kit
For those who want a fairly inexpensive mountain bike multitool under $10, look no further than the Wotow 16-in-1 bike repair tool kit! This kit is perfect for mountain biking because it fits in your pocket or bag and stays safe and sound until you need it.
On top of that, the multitool works well for assembling new bikes, though some customers say it’s sturdy while others say it is not as good as it should be. Regardless, here are the tools provided with this tool:
- Allen key (mm): 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 & 6
- Socket hex wrench (mm): 8, 9 & 10
- Flat wrench (mm): 8, 10 & 15
- Slot & cross screwdriver
- Socket extension rod
- Spoke wrench 14GE
3. XCH Robots Bicycle Repair Bag With Tire Pump
For those who want a product that goes the extra mile, look no further than the XCH Robots bicycle repair bag with a tire pump, which keeps everything compact and easy to carry. Many customers report that this multitool is handy and attaches directly to the bike, making it easy to track and access. Reviews are mixed: some say the pump works, while others say it doesn’t, and some find the tools sturdy while others do not.
Even so, this all-in-one multitool contains the following instruments:
- Allen wrenches (mm): 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 & 6
- Socket hex wrenches (mm): 8, 9 & 10
- Flat wrenches (mm): 8, 10 & 15
- Phillips screwdriver
- Socket extension rod
- Slot screwdriver
- Spoke wrench 14GE
Bonus items included:
- 1 extra 4mm Allen wrench (to help tighten or loosen the kit’s hinges)
- 3 nylon tire pry bars (for removing the inner tubes)
4. NDakter Bike Frame Bag with Repair Kit
Here’s another purchase with a bonus: the bike bag itself! Not only are you getting a portable repair kit with a multitool, but you are gaining a 2-liter bag that you can put some of your items in, like your phone, wallet, charger, pump, mini 9″ pump (that comes with the kit), and towel. Plus, the bag is waterproof, so your belongings stay safe and sound!
Here are the items that come with the multitool provided:
- Flat wrench (mm): 8, 10 & 15
- Socket wrench (mm): 8, 9, 10 & extension rod
- Hex keys (mm): 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 & 6
- Philips cross driver
- Spoke 14GE
- Slot driver
5. ROCKBROS 14-in-1 Bike Tool Kit
The Rockbros 14-in-1 bike tool kit includes many items to help ensure a successful mountain biking experience. This multitool kit is made a bit differently.
It offers 5 combination options so you can build the tool to match your needs and keep the head pieces organized in one place. For a brief overview of what items this multitool contains, look below:
- Torx wrenches: T25 & T30
- Hex keys: H2.5, H3, H4, H5, H6 & H8
- Slotted/Philips screwdrivers
- Ratchet wrench
- Socket hex wrenches
- Tire levers
6. PXZBLG Bike Repair Kit
PXZBLG makes the last bike repair kit. This kit includes a popular multitool, a bike pump that works extremely well for its size, and a tire repair kit. However, some customers note that the patches don’t work as well as they should, so keep that in mind. This repair kit includes a small bag that fits everything well, so you will not have to search far and wide for the multitool that may be buried in anything else you brought.
In terms of what type of tools are provided, here is a list below:
- Allen key (mm): 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 & 6
- Flat wrench: 8mm, 10mm, 15mm & 14GE
- 6-point socket set (mm): 8, 9 & 10
- Sleeve extension rod
- Philips screwdriver
- Slot-type screwdriver
Final Words
To summarize everything, many excellent mountain bike tools are perfect for your biking needs. Overall, it is important to have one, as you never know what will happen along your journey. Whether you are riding on hard or easier terrain, we hope this article helps you prepare for anything you might need! For more, see our picks for the best mountain bike accessories and best mountain bike locks, our guide to outdoor gear repair kits, and why some hikers clash with mountain bikers. Happy mountain biking!