How many bike multi-tools do you own? If you consider yourself somewhat of a tool-o-phile like me, it may be a few. I like to have a standard folding multi-tool for everyday rides, a more expansive piece to keep in my car with a floor pump for pre-ride checks, and an even wider selection in the garage with tools for any kind of task I am capable of. The different tools cover most anywhere I would expect to work on my bike.
Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+
- Price: $95
- Buy from Amazon and Backcountry.
So far, the Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ has covered all three areas, tightening bolts in my garage and on the trail. Here’s how my experience with the toolset has been so far.
About the Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+
Topeak says this tool has everything needed to repair and make “precise adjustments” to a bike in a mobile package. It includes a small ratcheting wrench with 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm hex bits, T10, T15, and T25 Torx bits, a steel chain tool, and even a #2 Phillips bit for when you may need to hang a photo quickly. The Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ also comes with a TorqBit, adjustable from 2-6Nm. The toolset weights 240g, or about 8.5oz.
Wrenching with the Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+
Using a folding multi-tool to work on repairs in your garage is like using a spoon to paint the walls of your home. Sure, it’ll get the job done, but it’s going to be much harder than it needs to be. Folding multi-tools are built for portability, light weight, and convenience whereas a tool like the Topeak here is still compact but has much better ergonomics and ease of use while it places less importance on weight and portability. This is also nice considering it’s difficult to use a standard 3/8″ socket wrench to accomplish anything on your bike.
The Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ comes in a comfortable folding pouch with a velcro belt loop if you’re having a Tim the Toolman moment. The bits are shiny and have a near-polished finish to them and every bit has its own little stretchy fabric sleeve. The wrench itself is small and has a perfect fit for palming the handle and keeping a thumb over the top of the bit to keep pressure and torque.
The bottom of the wrench is also open to accept the TorqBit or the chain tool handle for added leverage. Or you can use the TorqBit as an extension for the bits and the chain tool handle as an extension for the handle for the best of both worlds. For the torque ranges on this tool you probably won’t need the long handle for strength but it certainly helps when it comes to ergonomics.
The bit selection is solid and includes every size hex and Torx bit you’d run into on a bike and even a Phillips bit. The TorqBit is easy to use and gives you an easy to read torque rating from 0-6Nm.
My only complaint about the Topeak Ratchet Rocket is that it is heavy and much bigger as a package than other multi-tools. The set with case weighed 246g on my scale and that is still a reasonable weight for many. I’d likely opt for something lighter as an everyday carry tool, but again, I really like this in my garage or in my car.
Pros and cons of the Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+
Pros:
- Ergonomical, easy to use
- Nice bit selection
- Carry pouch
Cons:
- Heavier than other bike multi-tools
Bottom line
The Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ is a great bike tool with a strong selection of bits, ergonomic design, and everything you need to accomplish bike repairs.
- Price: $95
- Buy from Amazon and Backcountry.
