These seven mini tools can be cleverly positioned on the bike:
Industry Nine Matchstix
But the thru-axle lever on the fork is not original, is it? And yet another hiding place has been uncovered. Industrie Nine transforms Fox and Rockshox thru axles into multi-tools with an integrated bit reservoir. Four bits and a chain lock fit into the axle. The lever serves as a chain riveter, spoke spanner and bit holder. The stylishly milled tool weighs 102 grams when filled. 190 euros, industrynine.com
XLC BE-A11 Comp Bar Ends
Handlebar ends, really? Do you still ride them? Oh, there's a mini-tool inside? Actually, if you unscrew the eleven centimetre long bar ends at the front, a two-piece tool set appears. The handy tool offers 13 functions. These include a chain tool, tyre lever and the most important Allen and Torx keys. Handlebar ends suddenly make sense again. 29.95 euros.
Syncros MB Tailor Cage Mini HV1.5
You have to look a little longer for the Syncros tool. But the raised bottle cage gives it away. The small tool box can be easily pulled out from the pump. Inside is the two-part tool with ten bits, chain rivet and spoke spanner. The tool sits comfortably in the hand, but can rattle a little in the holder. 79,95.
All In Multi Tool
What's that colourful button at the bottom of the crank? There's a mini tool hiding in the crank axle. The aluminium body of the All-in-Tool holds six customisable bits and a chain lock. The bit holder can be folded down for a larger lever and better handling. 64.90 euros, allinmultitool.com
One Up Components EDC Pump + EDC Tool
Phew, 264 grams for a pump? That's pretty heavy! But oops, a sleeve can be pulled out of the pump handle. Hidden inside is a tool with the most important bits, chain rivet, chain lock tool and tyre lever. Behind it is a canister with space for small items or a CO² cartridge. The matching CO² pump is in the valve head. How clever is that? 105 euros, oneupcomponents.com
Topeak Ninja TC Mountain
Ok, we didn't have to look far for the Topeak Ninja tool. Its waterproof container hangs like a cocoon, clearly visible directly under the bottle cage. Hidden inside is the Mini 20 Pro. A classic for years and the editors' favourite. The container can be swivelled to the side to open it. Because the tool is encased in rubber for transport, nothing rattles during the ride. 49.95 euros.
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Stefan Frey
Editor
