Bicycle tools: 12 torque spanners in the test

Stem, seat clamp, handlebar grip. There is hardly a screw connection on a bicycle that does not have a torque specification. Four, six or twelve Newton metres are often printed or laser-engraved in small letters on the various components. But what does four Newton metres mean, for example, as is often required on carbon handlebars? Approximately hand-tight? For such a sensitive component, which is also safety-relevant, this would be about as precise as a pinch of salt in the baking instructions.

A proper torque spanner is part of the basic equipment of every hobby workshop.

For the workshop and when travelling

According to the definition, a one metre long lever would have to be loaded with 0.4 kilos in order to apply the corresponding torque to the stem bolt. However, as this is difficult to achieve when tightening screws, there are torque spanners that crack and briefly tilt when the set value is reached. Spanners with the so-called short travel release cover around 90 per cent of the market and are the ideal choice for the hobby workshop. In our test, seven of the eight models for the workshop are equipped with this robust mechanism.

Already From 70 euros you get solid toolswith which the screws on sensitive components such as carbon handlebars or seat clamps can be tightened precisely. Carbon fibre reacts particularly sensitively to clamping forces. One bold twist and the expensive component is ruined, or worse still, it breaks the next time it is used. But even aluminium has a pronounced memory for damage and can quickly become a safety risk once overloaded. The torque spanner is therefore part of every workshop's basic equipment.

If you don't want to miss out on correct tightening torques when travelling, one of the four handy tools in the test is a good choice. They generally have a drag indicator that shows the current torque on a small scale. The exception here is the tool from Lezyne, which uses a so-called slipping clutch to prevent over-tightening of the screw connections. We used a calibrated measuring device to check how precisely the individual tools work. Most of the candidates are within the permissible tolerances of plus four to minus four per cent. The fact that the keys of well-known brands such as Parktool and Pedro's in particular produce quite a few deviations did surprise us somewhat - even if the values are in the range of less than 0.5 Newton metres.

The right approach

However, whether a torque spanner delivers reliable values also depends heavily on the correct application. Jerky triggering quickly leads to the screws being overtightened. The torque spanner should therefore always be used evenly, slowly and in a controlled manner. The frequently observed retightening - to check whether the screw has really been tightened correctly, for example - is something of a deadly sin in torque handling and usually leads to increased values as reliably as a handball in the penalty area leads to a penalty kick. Lengthening or shortening the lever also significantly changes the torque applied. You should therefore always hold the spanner in the centre of the handle and with even pressure distribution. Ideally, you will find a small mark on the handle that indicates the optimum point for applying force and that also serves as the point of application when calibrating the spanner.

The Topeak D-Torq is the only workshop spanner in the test with a digital display. Even if the filigree tool shows slight weaknesses in handling, it does have one advantage over the competition: In the event that you continue to turn the wrench when screwing, even though the acoustic signal has long since warned you to stop, the spanner always displays the torque at the end.

But even without this additional safeguard, the torque spanners in the test are worlds better than your own instinct and ultimately ensure that the handlebars are correctly fixed in the stem and don't literally bend during the next emergency braking manoeuvre.

12 torque spanners in the test

• 3min19sec Premium torque spanner
• BBB Torqueset BTL-73
• Birzman Torque Wrench 3-15 Nm
• Gedore bike set torque
• Parktool TW-5.2
• Pedro's Pro Torque Wrench 2.0
• Topeak D-Torq Wrench
• Wera Bicycle Set Torque 1
• Birzman Pocket Torque Wrench 2-10 Nm
• Lezyne Pocket Torque Drive
• Silca T-Ratchet + TI-Torque Kit
• Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+

>> Spring check for your e-bike

>> How-to: Correct tightening - adjusting the torque on tour

Eight torque spanners for the workshop

3min19sec Premium torque spanner

details

• Price: 70 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 262 g
• Length: 220 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 26 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; manufacturer's test seal; Inhex 2.5 to 10; Torx 25, 30; softbox

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 8 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 6 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 9 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

The cheapest spanner in the test impresses with surprisingly precise measurement results and is the absolute Price-performance tip for hobby screwdrivers. The neatly laser-cut scale can be adjusted in 0.2 increments and covers a wide torque range. The stylish soft box contains the most important bits. Even if the short handle does not sit comfortably in the hand, the neatly finished spanner is easy to work with. During testing, the mechanism of the somewhat rough ratchet sometimes jammed. If the lock is not closed properly, the spanner can become misaligned.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good (MYBIKE tip: Value for money 2/2023)

BBB Torqueset BTL-73

details

• Price: 85 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 277 g
• Length: 223 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 14 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; manufacturer's test seal; Inhex 3 to 8; Torx 25, 30; softbox

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 7 from 10
• Precision (20%): 7 from 10
• Processing (10%): 7 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 8 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

In the lower torque range, the torque set is slightly outside the standard values. The major drawback, however, is the difficult-to-read scale, which is prone to parallax errors and is not very intuitively translated. In addition, the adjustment mechanism is stiff. The ratchet, on the other hand, has a clean grid, is easy to adjust and triggers audibly and perceptibly. Even though the plastic handle is not very comfortable to hold, the BBB tool is pleasant to work with. There is no indication of the correct direction of rotation, nor is there a full certificate. The BBB spanner comes in a fine soft box with almost all the important bits.

MYBIKE verdict: Good

Birzman Torque Wrench 3-15 Nm

details

• Price: 139 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 295 g
• Length: 209 mm
• Range / drive: 3 to 14 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; manufacturer's test seal; Inhex 3 to 8; Torx 25; 90 mm extension; hard box

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 8 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 9 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 7 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

The compact Birzman is not only appealing because of its high-quality metal look. Its neatly lasered scale is easy to read and can be set in increments of 0.1. The direction of rotation is also indicated. The adjustment mechanism runs very smoothly, but the locking ring must always be held down, which makes adjustment difficult. With its short handle, the Birzman is not very ergonomic in the hand, but all values are absolutely within the standard range. When used correctly, it is therefore a precise tool with a total of six usable bits and a practical extension. The plastic case, on the other hand, is only standard.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

Gedore bike set torque

details

• Price: 159 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 407 g
• Length: 284 mm
• Range / drive: 2.5 to 25 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Test seal; instructions; softbox; Inhex 2 to 10; Torx 15 to 30; PH1; slotted bit 4; open-end spanner, socket spanner 10, 15; extension

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 10 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 10 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 10 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

The tool specialist has put together a comprehensive package at an attractive price. Perfectly balanced, intuitive to use and adjustable in 0.1 increments with an easy-to-read scale. The German-made spanner with interchangeable mushroom head also enables controlled left-hand tightening and sits securely in the hand thanks to its wide grip. Even if the ratchet head is somewhat coarse, it releases with a clear click. Leverage point and working direction are marked and a test certificate is available. Despite minimal deviations, all test values are in the green zone. Currently only available via Amazon.

Parktool TW-5.2

details

• Price: 176 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 278 g
• Length: 228 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 14 Nm / 3/8 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; hard box

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 6 from 10
• Precision (20%): 4 from 10
• Processing (10%): 7 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 5 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

Parktool supplies the only spanner with a 3/8-inch socket, which seems somewhat oversized for this size. Almost all measured values are slightly out of tolerance - and there is no test certificate. The scale, which is difficult to read, and the rather clumsy adjustment mechanism are also not really convincing. On the other hand, the plastic handle of the slim spanner sits comfortably in the hand. The ratchet runs smoothly, but gives little feedback when the set torque is reached. For the price, the equipment is very modest - no bits, just a plastic storage box.

MYBIKE verdict: Satisfactory

Pedro's Pro Torque Wrench 2.0

details

• Price: 139 Euro
• Weight*: 719 g
• Length: 295 mm
• Range / drive: 6 to 30 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; hard box

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 6 from 10
• Precision (20%): 6 from 10
• Processing (10%): 7 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 4 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

By far the heaviest spanner in the test is quite large for most screws on the bike. The heavy weight and poor balance of the tool are a nuisance when screwing. In addition, the measuring range only starts at 6 Nm. In the lower range, the values are outside the tolerance. The weakly stamped scale is extremely difficult to read and can only be adjusted in 0.2 increments. The locking ring for the adjustment is well designed and the torque is clearly signalled when it is reached. Pedro's also lacks a certificate. Apart from a storage box, there are no accessories.

MYBIKE verdict: Satisfactory

Topeak D-Torq Wrench

details

• Price: 220 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 170 g
• Length: 213 mm
• Range / drive: 1 to 20 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; test seal; Inhex 2 to 6 mm; Torx 25; PH2; magnetic extension; softbox

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 8 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 9 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 10 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

In addition to the very precise values, the digital Topeak has another plus: it always displays the current torque - good if you have overtightened. The filigree D-Torq can be set very precisely, but the tiny buttons are very fiddly and the display is extremely small. The set unit of measurement is almost impossible to decipher. The small plastic handle makes it almost impossible to tackle large screws. By the time you hear the signal for the correct tightening torque, you have usually already overtightened the screw slightly. Stylish box, well-chosen accessories and a fully-fledged test certificate!

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

Wera Bicycle Set Torque 1

details

• Price: approx. 195 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 434 g
• Length: 300 mm
• Range / drive: 2.5 to 25 Nm / 1/4 inch
• Accessories: Instructions; test seal; Torx 10 to 30; Inhex 3 to 8; socket spanner 10 to 15; Inhex extension Inhex 5, 6; softbox

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 10 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 10 from 10
• Accessories / certificate (20%): 10 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

When the Wera box was opened, all the testers' eyes lit up. In addition to the impeccably crafted spanner, there are the most important bits and two extensions. Despite its size, the spanner fits perfectly in the hand, so even small screws can be operated easily. The scale is easy to read, finely adjustable and the mechanism has a clean rasterisation. The tightening direction and grip point are also indicated. The Wera only triggers in one direction. A full test certificate is also available here. Officially, the 16-piece set costs more than 400 euros.

MYBIKE verdict: Super (MYBIKE test winner 2/2023)

Four torque spanners for travelling

Birzman Pocket Torque Wrench 2-10 Nm

details

• Price: 50 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 91; 142 g
• Handle length: 20 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 10 Nm / 1/4 bit
• Accessories: Instructions; Inhex 3 to 6; Torx 25; PH2; hard box

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 6 from 10
• Precision (20%): 6 from 10
• Processing (10%): 7 from 10
• Accessories (20%): 7 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

Birzman supplies a handy tool with a drag indicator for travelling. The display on the side is somewhat small and difficult to read correctly. In the test, the values were sometimes well below the tolerance. Using the finger lever is also not easy. If you lean on the housing, you can quickly distort the values. The scope of delivery includes six bits and an extension. The plastic box is not really a nice storage device; a soft box for a rucksack or pannier would be desirable. The ratchet mechanism works perfectly.

Lezyne Pocket Torque Drive

details

• Price: 65 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 75; 156 g
• Handle length: 75 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 6 Nm / 1/4 bit
• Accessories: Instructions; Inhex 2.5 to 5; Torx 20, 25; Softbox

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 8 from 10
• Precision (20%): 8 from 10
• Processing (10%): 9 from 10
• Accessories (20%): 9 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

The stylish soft case conceals six bits for the most important screw connections on the bike. The torque is set using a separate spanner. The scale is easy to read, but the right value is still difficult to set. If the setting is correct, the Lezyne tool delivers solid values. With its attachable T-handle, the tool sits comfortably in the hand. Without an extension, however, it is difficult to reach hidden screws with the torpedo-like tool. The integrated slip clutch makes over-tightening virtually impossible. Not suitable for opening screw connections.

MYBIKE verdict: Very good

Silca T-Ratchet + TI-Torque Kit

details

• Price: 150 Euro
• Weight*: 97; 227 g
• Handle length: 100 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 8 Nm / 1/4 bit
• Accessories: Ratchet; extension; Inhex 2 to 6; Torx 10 to 25; PH2; waxed bag

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 9 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 10 from 10
• Accessories (20%): 10 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

Like the Wera, the Silca also impresses with its outstanding workmanship. The ratchet handle, torque attachment, extension and bits are stored in a waxed case. All connections are held in place magnetically. Even if the values on the drag indicator are somewhat difficult to read, the Silca achieves very precise torques. The handling is a real pleasure. Without the torque attachment, the tool can simply be used as a ratchet, which can be used for most work on the bike. In the latest version, the display has also been slightly enlarged.

MYBIKE verdict: Super

Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+

details

• Price: 80 Euro >> available here
• Weight*: 93; 247 g
• Handle length: 93 mm
• Range / drive: 2 to 6 Nm / 1/4 bit
• Accessories: Instructions; ratchet; extension; torque attachment; chain rivet; Inhex 2 to 8; Torx 10 to 25; PH2; bag

Evaluation criteria

• Handling (50%): 9 from 10
• Precision (20%): 10 from 10
• Processing (10%): 10 from 10
• Accessories (20%): 10 from 10

Conclusion on the torque spanner

Even if the Topeak is not quite as attractive as the Silca, it is the more complete tool thanks to the chain riveter and is even more compact with its flat case. The scale on the torque attachment is also easier to read and delivers absolutely convincing values. Thanks to the extension, even hidden screws are easy to reach. Handling would be slightly better with a T-handle like the Silca. On the other hand, the mechanics give no cause for criticism. Anyone who values correctly tightened screws when travelling and is looking for an inexpensive tool will find what they are looking for here.

MYBIKE verdict: Super (MYBIKE tip: Value for money 2 /2023)

* MYBIKE measured values

This is how we tested

Handling (50%)

Good marks were awarded to candidates with a clear scale and precise adjustment. Spanners with displays missing graduation marks, which are prone to parallax errors or whose adjustment mechanisms showed play, received correspondingly poor marks. Bonus points were awarded for ergonomically shaped handles and easy tool changes on the drive.

Precision (20%)

Normally, every torque spanner should come with a calibration certificate in accordance with DIN EN ISO 6789. We checked the accuracy using a calibrated testing device provided by Gedore. We rated the best spanners as "super" and multiple deviations from the standard as a maximum of "sufficient".

Processing (10%)

Errors in the surface finish or a noticeable amount of play in the drive mechanism mean a loss of points here. Most of the tested keys give little cause for criticism in this category.

Accessories (20%)

A practical storage box protects the torque spanner and keeps bits or adapters organised. Expensive models such as those from Parktool or Pedro's are stingy here. Even inexpensive brands such as 3min19sec or BBB offer more accessories.

Interview with Dipl.-Ing. Dirk Zedler

MYBIKE: Many amateur mechanics tighten screws on their bikes purely by feel. How dangerous is that?

Dirk Zedler: From the point of view of mechanical engineering, bicycles are absolutely lightweight. In fact, weight is saved on every detail. If you tighten screws by feel, this can damage more than just the thread itself. Carbon fibre components can be literally crushed. As a result, damaged components can fail during operation.

Does aluminium react just as sensitively to excessive torque as carbon?

Crushing is not a major issue here, and if a dent occurs in the aluminium frame, it typically does not cause breakage. It can become critical at the clamping points on the handlebars if constrictions occur here. Experts refer to this as notching, which can sooner or later lead to a fatigue fracture.

Is there only one "too tight", or can too low a torque also cause problems?

Handlebars can twist abruptly in the stem or stems in ruts on fork stems in the event of an impact. But cranks or pedals can also come completely loose and suddenly fall off if they are not correctly tightened. Seat post bolts are also particularly critical. Hence the urgent advice to stay within the torque ranges. And importantly: The bolted connections should be checked for the first time with the torque spanner after about 10-15 hours of operation and then at regular intervals and, depending on the rigours of use, about every 50 hours. You can find more details in the operating instructions.

Despite the correct torque, a component is not tight. What can I do then?

Tolerances during manufacture can hardly be avoided, so the first thing to check is whether the parts fit together. In the case of clamps where one partner is made of the composite material carbon, grease should be avoided at all costs. A thin layer of friction-enhancing carbon paste applied evenly on both sides works wonders here, and then it works within the specified torques.

What to do if a component is overtightened?

Not an easy question and definitely not one that can be answered across the board. Once overtightened and then immediately loosened again is typically not a "broken leg". With critical carbon, crackling noises often indicate that the pressure was too high when tightening. This can also be heard when loosening. If this is the case, then it is definitely time for a replacement. Here too, I recommend going to an expert.

How to use a torque spanner correctly

What could possibly go wrong when tightening screws with a torque spanner? Plenty, I know Rene Steuthtraining expert at Gedore. Here are his tips for correct screwing.

Setting the torque

"Always set the required torque from the higher value so that the mechanism inside relaxes and does not become tense. Grip the spanner in the centre of the handle with even pressure. Good wrenches have a mark where the centre finger should rest. Pull in a controlled manner with increasing force, never jerk. Stop the tightening process as soon as you release it so as not to overtighten. For low torques, you can also just press with the crook of your thumb in the centre of the handle or on the corresponding marking to achieve particularly precise values."

Work cleanly

"Insert the spanner precisely and straight into the screw. If the spanner is tilted, it may be released before the required torque is applied. Make sure that the threads of the screw connections and the screws themselves are clean and dry. If you drop a screw on the floor, you should clean it briefly before fitting it. Even the smallest particles of dirt change the friction coefficients in the thread and on the screw head support. Friction ultimately accounts for up to 80 to 90 per cent of the torque."

The right direction

"Do not use the torque spanner to loosen screws to avoid damage to the tool due to screws being too tight. Even if a spanner triggers in both directions, it is usually only calibrated in one direction. An arrow should indicate the corresponding direction of operation."

Relax at the end

"Many amateur screwdrivers forget to slacken the spanner after use by setting it back to the lowest value on the scale. This protects the spring mechanism. However, do not turn further than the starting point of the scale."

Only once

"Even experienced mechanics often press a second time to make sure that the screw connection has been tightened correctly. This is unnecessary and increases the risk of overtightening the bolt. With the sensitive screw connections on the bike, it is easy to apply a few Newton metres too much, which can lead to a component becoming defective. Multiple loosening is only necessary on parts that are secured by several bolts (bolt assembly), such as the brake disc or the stem. Tightening one bolt reduces the preload force on the other and must therefore be retightened."

Quality control

"Each torque spanner should be accompanied by a calibration certificate in accordance with DIN EN ISO 6789. Five measurements must be recorded at each of three defined measuring points, which must not exceed a tolerance of +/-4 per cent. Certificates without an exact DIN specification and with only three tests per set value merely indicate that the manufacturer has carried out a quality check. It is recommended that the torque spanner is checked once a year or after 5,000 load cycles and recalibrated if necessary, as frequent or incorrect use can affect the measuring accuracy."