A well-maintained bike should get you through a ride trouble free, but it’s worth having a reliable multi-tool stashed on you for those pre-ride tweaks, or a get-you-home fix when all goes wrong. We look for quality construction, with tools that are well made and reliable, all in a compact and light design. Pretty much like this Crank Brothers Y16 multi tool.
Californian based Crank Bros are maybe a pedal brand in many rider’s eyes but they also have an eye for great design when it comes to multi-tools. The Y16 is our pick and is the top dog from Crank’s three model ‘Y tool’ range.
“The Crank Brothers Y16 is our pick for a multi-tool that is well made, reliable and equipped to get you out of trouble in all but the worst mechanicals”
The Y16 has a different shape to your usual multi-tool and sits in the palm of your hand thanks to the flat, triangular design. With many riders now leaving the back-pack at home and traveling light on all but the longest rides, this tool sits comfortably in a pocket, going almost un-noticed. The main body holds a full range of stainless, shop-grade tools that cover all bases. As the name suggests, the key players here are two sturdy Y tools with hex/allen keys on both, with one having a socket for the other magnetic tool ‘bits’ which are stored in a metal case. A flat tyre or a snapped chain will have you walking home and it’s here where the Y16 tool will help out. The robust chain breaker will fix chains up to 11 speeds and is held and operated with the two Y tools, giving good leverage. Also included is a CO2 inflator, quicker than a pump and more compact too. Just chuck in a CO2 cartridge or two and you’re well equipped for all but the worst mechanicals.
