The Topeak D-Torque wrench is a digital torque wrench with eight bits for precisely tightening and loosening just about every screw and bolt on a bike. The digital display reads measurements down to a hundredth of a Nm which makes it simple to get your build dialed.
The ratcheting head is ideal for working in tight spaces, and the action is reversible for loosening bolts. With the included bits, the D-Torque can generally be used to attach stems, grips, brake levers, shifters, dropper post levers, bottle cages, seat clamps, saddles, rotor bolts, thru axles, derailleurs, and chainring bolts. Perhaps the only bit that’s missing is a 8mm hex bit for pedals. (The more robust Topeak D-Torque DX includes an 8mm attachment, plus a 10mm, multiple sockets, and more Torx bit sizes.)
Since it’s digital, the D-Torque wrench can be programmed to beep at a preset torque level or when a bolt is over tight. It’s also possible to change the units of measure, though Nm is pretty much a universal standard when it comes to bike parts. Most bike components are labeled with the recommended torque value or list one in their instructions. The tool’s single AAA battery is said to last 20 hours, which is a lot of wrenching.
The Topeak D-Torque wrench comes in a sleek carrying case that keeps the bits organized and the tool protected from dust and damage. For those with a more permanent work space, there’s a pegboard-friendly hanger loop on the bottom of the tool.
I’m a big fan of building up a mountain bike tool kit slowly over time, adding individual tools as I gain the skills and know-how to perform more complex installations and repairs myself. Priced at $239, the Topeak D-Torque wrench probably isn’t the first tool one would add to their kit, but it’s certainly useful, especially when working on high-end bikes and components that demand precision wrenching.
Available at JensonUSA and other retailers
Thanks to Topeak for providing the D-Torque wrench for review.
Harbor Freight baby
Love the concept but that’s a hefty price to pay.
Bells and whistles are great, but is it accurate? I have one of the fancier, simpler ones from a well known American bike tool maker and best I can tell, it’s off by a bit; using it, my bar stem’s steer tube bolts loosen up, but not the case when I use an imported conventional torque wrench. At this point, accuracy matters more than anything else.
Great question. Haven’t had any bolts loosen, but there’s probably a better way to test.
Test its accuracy. Find a local tool dealer – Snap-On, Mac, Matco, etc. They will have a torque wrench tester on their truck. If it’s off, get it calibrated. Calibration is a normal maintenance item for torque wrenches, even the digital ones.
What is the range of torque, min/ max?
Range is 1-20 Nm.