If you own a motorcycle, the chances are you’re going to need to perform some maintenance from time to time and a multi-tool is a seriously handy weapon in any rider’s arsenal.
Handy in the garage but even more useful when out on the bike, especially when you’re touring. The compact design packs in plenty of the tools you need to keep you moving.
You never know what you might need a multitool but they usually come in handy when you’re in a bit of a tight spot. Maybe you’ve got an annoying label in your jacket you want to snip off, or a stone’s smashed your mudguard and you need to cut off the bit that’s no rubbing your tyre. There are 100s of random reasons why it makes sense to carry a multi-tool.
We’ve checked out the range of multi-tools and picked our best 3 to fit every budget.
You might also consider replacing your bike’s OWM toolkit with something a little more substantial. We’ve also picked a great mini socket-set for riders who want better screwdriver options than you’ll get with a motorcycle multitool. In fact our mini socket set pick is so good, we reckon most bikers will grab one because they’re so cheap and yet so handy. Bye by OEM toolset, hello quality tools.
With a multi-tool and a mini socket set, you’ll be able to take on any number of minor issues at the roadside and not let them ruin your day.
Screwdriver bits included
For £29.99, this multi-tool is a steal. Not only do you get the standard attached multi-tools which include pliers, knife, can opener, flat head screwdrivers, Philips screwdriver, a saw, bottle opener and even a nail file (should you need it after all your hard work). Presented in a handy portable pouch, the multi-tool won’t become damaged when not in use.
Strong and reliable
For £45, you can buy this robust multi-tool from Gerber with 15 components including wire cutters for any electrical maintenance and a bottle opener for a well deserved drink after all your hard work. The durable storage pouch can be attached to a belt loop so you don’t lose them.
Built-in hex-bit adapter
If you’re willing to push the boat out and make an investment in a multi-tool that will last, the Leatherman Crunch Multi-Tool costs around £110. With a built-in hex-bit adaptor, you can carry hex bits too. The crunch clamps up to a 1-inch diameter pipe and the leather pouch adds a touch of class to this compact tool.
Replace Your OEM Underseat Toolkit?
If you want a multi tool that’s less Swiss Army Knife and more mini tool set, Crank Brothers’ Multi-19 has, you’ve guessed it, 19 tools.
Although it’s designed for cyclists, it includes Allen keys, hex, and screwdrivers which come in handy for motorcyclists too. If you only find yourself using the Allen keys and screwdriver in your bike’s toolkit (which, let’s be honest, most of us do) then you can replace that with this compact set for your European tour, saving space and weight.
It doesn’t come with sockets but if you need these, check out the tiny socket set below.
Compact Socket Sets
A multi-tool is good for a bit of DIY everything and they’re a handy tool to have stashed under your motorbike’s seat. However if you need to do any minor roadside repairs to your motorbike, like tighten nuts, Allen bolts or screws then you’ll need something better suited to the job.
We’ve picked out the Dewalt High-Performance Mini Socket Set pictured above. At under £20, it’s a complete bargain. The box contains six sockets in 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13 mm, a wrench, a bit holder, 25 mm screwdriver bits in Pz1, Pz2, Pz3, Ph1, Ph2, Ph3, T10, T15, T20, T25, T30, T40, Hex 4, Hex 5, Hex 6, and one 25mm long bar adapter.
The set is carried in a compact case and it’ll fit in a rucksack side pocket with ease.
Another great option is this Bosch Mini toolkit which is almost identical to the Dewalt kit pictured above.
Sources
Thanks to the following websites which helped us research and write this biker multi tools review:
https://www.leatherman.com/multi-tools
