Topeak’s Ratchet Rocket mini-tool has been a long-standing favorite, (read our previous review here) and the NTX+ iteration of the mini tool kit is my favorite to date. Centered around a mini ratcheting tool, the Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ is stuffed to the brim with features and functionality, making it an ideal compact tool for […]
Before You Ride: Performing A Pre-ride Safety Check
There’s nothing worse than a crash or breaking expensive parts due to a minor oversight or lack of maintenance. Before hitting the single track, get in the habit of performing a basic safety check of your bike. It may sound dramatic, but a simple once-over at the trailhead can make the difference between a great […]
Review: OneUp Components EDC Tool & Pump
The OneUp Component EDC Tool is designed for the rider that likes to carry their trailside repair kit as efficiently as possible. A ride carry solution, its built around a compact tool for trailside repairs, with a clever integration with multiple options in carrying it on the bike makes a versatile investment in your ride […]
Review: Fix It Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Wrench
I didn’t think it could happen, but the new Fix It Sticks Ratcheting T-Way Wrench replaced my 3-way hex wrench as the “quick-fix” option. Like the three-way, it offers the convenience multiple tools in one, but amps up the usability factor with the addition of the ratcheting mechanism. Not willing to settle there, its versatility […]
Fiskar Pruning Shears: PNW trail maintenance tool
Fiskar Pruning Shears have become a foundation of my trail maintenance tool kit. Easy to tote in a pack or waist pack, and paired with a set of durable gloves and a compact folding saw, you can easily assist in keeping many of your favorite trails passable. Trails in the Pacific Northwest quickly can be […]
Review: Leatherman Skeletool 7-in-1 Multitool
We’ve owned a number of Leatherman Tools in the past, but the Leatherman Skeletool 7-in-1 multitool may be the favorite of all the Leatherman Tools we’ve used. It’s also earned a spot on my MTB trail riding essentials packing list. Features & Functions 420HC Stainless Steel Weight: 5.0 oz | 142 g Functions: Blade Bottle […]
Rogue Hoe 70HRH Fire Hoe & Rake Combo Tool
The Rogue Hoe is a classic trail building workhorse, and we’ve been a fan of this tool since our IMBA days, when we were initially introduced to it. But if you want a tool that’s even more versatile, the Rogue Hoe 70HR 7″ Rake and Hoe Combo Tool ups the ante with the addition of […]
Review: Topeak Ninja Series Cage SK and Toolbox 16 Multi-tool
We always love geeking out on new ways to splitting up the gear we carry on rides. Dispersing some of the weight to our bikes can result in more fun on the trail, and shorten the time it takes to get ready to roll. Systems like Specialized’s SWAT and OneUp Components EDC allow integrating a […]
Review: Interflon Fin Super Chain Lubricant
Interflon Fin Super is a multi-purpose Teflon based lubricant designed to lube and protect chains used on all types of industrial production equipment. It also happens to work extremely well on bicycle chains and other cycling applications. What’s unique about Fin Super, is how it magnetically adheres to the surface of chains and bearings, via […]
Inteletool Interchangeable Head Tool with Telescopic Handle
There aren’t a lot of options when it comes to portable trail building tools one can tote in a pack. While researching options for an easy-to-carry trail building tool, our search took us from modular survival shovels to combi tools to trunk shovels. The problem with these options: the handles are either too short or […]
Lezyme Torque Drive Tool
Small, sleek, compact and easy to store, the Lezyne Torque Drive tool is a simple but elegant solution for ensuring bolts are fastened to the correct specifications. The mini torque wrench features machined aluminum construction with a removable t-handle and a bit holder and a wide select of bits. The Torque Drive Tool includes a […]
Portable Trail Tool: the Trail Boss
When it comes to modular portable trail building tools, there’s really just one option that checks all the boxes in terms of functionality and portability: the Trail Boss tool from Trail Boss USA. Over a decade ago when we did a stint as traveling trail builders, we encountered quite a few folks working on their […]