Gear Reviews

Trail Essentials: Bike Multi-Tools & Zip-Ties

Bike Multi-tool

Last night was my first Park City trail ride of the season, and… my bike blew up. Derailer hanger snapped right in two. Not the best way to start a season, but better now than during prime-time. Luckily, I was near the end of the ride, and I was carrying both zip-ties and a multi-tool, two essentials I rarely leave home without on my bike, which in this case, saved me a considerable amount of walking back to the trailhead.

Mountain Bike Zip Ties

For a multi-tool, I carry and suggest the Topeak Hexus II. Topeak has always put a lot of thought into their product design, and the Hexus II strikes a good balance between size and utility. However, whichever you decide on make sure that it comes equipped with a chain tool, as invariably, when shit hits the fan, removing the chain is the difference between walking or carrying the bike, and coasting back to safety.

Bike Multi-Tool Recommendations

What’s your favorite multi-tool? Leave your suggestions in the comments below.

About the author

Alex

Alex is a designer by trade & mid-grade adventurer by night who’s quite partial to knobby tired bikes, clean design, & dirty hands. When not updating this silly website, he's likely off exploring the nearby hills with a few of his favorite partners in crime.

Leave a Comment

LIKE READING ABOUT BIKES?

Life is too short to ride busted bikes. Sign up today & have the latest news, trail updates, trip reports, deals on the latest gear, and stories delivered straight to your inbox so you can make the most of your time in the saddle.

Success! In the meantime, don't forget to keep the rubber side down!