Torque About Tools is our new semi-regular round-up of the latest workshop tools to land at BikeRadar HQ.<\/p>\n

It will range from everyday options that make your life easier to tempting exotica.<\/p>\n 100mm Wood Screws

I have appreciated nerding out over workshop tools since I started working in the cycling industry, and have spent my fair share of time in workshops.<\/p>\n

After breaking a cheap chain tool<\/a> on its first use, I realised buying cheap tools is uneconomical and counterintuitive. High-quality tools are more durable and enjoyable to use. They are also usually better designed and will incorporate functions to make tasks as straightforward as possible.<\/p>\n So, without further ado, let\u2019s take a look at the latest tools to appear on our radar.<\/p>\nNew brake tools from Birzman<\/h2>\n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/i> Tools to help you with your hydraulic disc brakes.<\/span><\/figcaption> Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n Birzman has brought out three new tools to help with brake caliper alignment and identifying when your pads and rotors are worn.<\/p>\nBirzman Brake Pad Wear Indicator<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

So, without further ado, let\u2019s take a look at the latest tools to appear on our radar.<\/p>\nNew brake tools from Birzman<\/h2>\n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/i> Tools to help you with your hydraulic disc brakes.<\/span><\/figcaption> Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i><\/span><\/div>\n Birzman has brought out three new tools to help with brake caliper alignment and identifying when your pads and rotors are worn.<\/p>\nBirzman Brake Pad Wear Indicator<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Birzman has brought out three new tools to help with brake caliper alignment and identifying when your pads and rotors are worn.<\/p>\nBirzman Brake Pad Wear Indicator<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Birzman\u2019s Brake Pad Wear Indicator measures your disc brake pads<\/a> to determine if they need replacing.<\/p>\n The tool features laser-engraved minimum thickness indicators as per the manufacturer guidelines and is compatible with Shimano, Tektro\/TRP, Hope, SRAM and Magura brake pads.<\/p>\n If the pad material either slots into the tool completely or measures less than the minimum thickness, it\u2019s time for replacing.<\/p>\n SRAM and Magura brake pads fit into a slot cut into the indicator arms because the minimum thickness measurement includes the backing plate.<\/p>\n Shimano, Tektro and Hope brake pads suggest a minimum thickness of 0.5mm for the braking material. The third arm of the tool is 0.5mm thick and you can measure the braking material against this.<\/p>\n Rather than slotting the pad in between the gauge, you place the tool on the top of the pad and if the gauge hits the backing plate, it needs replacing.<\/p>\n There isn\u2019t a fitting for Campagnolo. However, Campagnolo brake pads feature a wear groove that, when worn away, indicates the pads are ready for replacement.<\/p>\n Of course, rather than using a specific tool, you could use a vernier caliper to manually measure the rotor thickness and compare it against the recommended minimum thickness.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nBirzman Rotor Wear Indicator<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The tool features laser-engraved minimum thickness indicators as per the manufacturer guidelines and is compatible with Shimano, Tektro\/TRP, Hope, SRAM and Magura brake pads.<\/p>\n

If the pad material either slots into the tool completely or measures less than the minimum thickness, it\u2019s time for replacing.<\/p>\n

SRAM and Magura brake pads fit into a slot cut into the indicator arms because the minimum thickness measurement includes the backing plate.<\/p>\n

Shimano, Tektro and Hope brake pads suggest a minimum thickness of 0.5mm for the braking material. The third arm of the tool is 0.5mm thick and you can measure the braking material against this.<\/p>\n

Rather than slotting the pad in between the gauge, you place the tool on the top of the pad and if the gauge hits the backing plate, it needs replacing.<\/p>\n

There isn\u2019t a fitting for Campagnolo. However, Campagnolo brake pads feature a wear groove that, when worn away, indicates the pads are ready for replacement.<\/p>\n

Of course, rather than using a specific tool, you could use a vernier caliper to manually measure the rotor thickness and compare it against the recommended minimum thickness.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nBirzman Rotor Wear Indicator<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The Rotor Wear Indicator does a similar job, checking the thickness of your disc brake rotors<\/a>.<\/p>\n The rotor is often neglected when it comes down to maintenance. Much like a chain<\/a> or cassette<\/a>, disc rotors and brake pads wear in tandem, and should be inspected periodically.<\/p>\n The tool comes with four indicators to measure Shimano, Hope, SRAM, Magura and Tektro\/TRP rotors.<\/p>\n To use the tool, you slot your rotor into the relevant brand hole to check for wear.<\/p>\n It\u2019s worth noting rotors don\u2019t wear down evenly, and the central braking surface of the rotor is what\u2019s most important to check, rather than the upper tip. Unfortunately, this is a limitation of the Rotor Wear Indicator because it measures the upper tip.<\/p>\n Again, there isn\u2019t a Campagnolo option. The brand recommends its rotors be replaced when they measure 1.65mm or less.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nBirzman Razor Clam<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The rotor is often neglected when it comes down to maintenance. Much like a chain<\/a> or cassette<\/a>, disc rotors and brake pads wear in tandem, and should be inspected periodically.<\/p>\n The tool comes with four indicators to measure Shimano, Hope, SRAM, Magura and Tektro\/TRP rotors.<\/p>\n To use the tool, you slot your rotor into the relevant brand hole to check for wear.<\/p>\n It\u2019s worth noting rotors don\u2019t wear down evenly, and the central braking surface of the rotor is what\u2019s most important to check, rather than the upper tip. Unfortunately, this is a limitation of the Rotor Wear Indicator because it measures the upper tip.<\/p>\n Again, there isn\u2019t a Campagnolo option. The brand recommends its rotors be replaced when they measure 1.65mm or less.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nBirzman Razor Clam<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The tool comes with four indicators to measure Shimano, Hope, SRAM, Magura and Tektro\/TRP rotors.<\/p>\n

To use the tool, you slot your rotor into the relevant brand hole to check for wear.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s worth noting rotors don\u2019t wear down evenly, and the central braking surface of the rotor is what\u2019s most important to check, rather than the upper tip. Unfortunately, this is a limitation of the Rotor Wear Indicator because it measures the upper tip.<\/p>\n

Again, there isn\u2019t a Campagnolo option. The brand recommends its rotors be replaced when they measure 1.65mm or less.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nBirzman Razor Clam<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The Birzman Razor Clam is designed to make aligning disc brake calipers<\/a> easier.<\/p>\n Like the similar Hayes Feel\u2019r gauge, the Razor Clam works by creating even spacing between both pads so the caliper can be centered.<\/p>\n An update over the original Clam, the Razor Clam features a folding handle and is said to work with both two- and four-piston calipers.<\/p>\n To use the tool, you loosen the brake caliper mounting bolts slightly and fit the tool over the rotor and into the pads of the caliper. Then, apply the brake and tighten the bolt.<\/p>\n It\u2019s best to fully torque the mounting bolts at this stage because they can move if you torque them retrospectively.<\/p>\n Remove the tool and check your work \u2013 hopefully that\u2019s job done.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nNew brake tools from Park Tool<\/h2>\n Park Tool has also got some new tools to keep your brakes in full working order.<\/p>\nPark Tool Metric Flare Nut Wrench MWF-3<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Like the similar Hayes Feel\u2019r gauge, the Razor Clam works by creating even spacing between both pads so the caliper can be centered.<\/p>\n

An update over the original Clam, the Razor Clam features a folding handle and is said to work with both two- and four-piston calipers.<\/p>\n

To use the tool, you loosen the brake caliper mounting bolts slightly and fit the tool over the rotor and into the pads of the caliper. Then, apply the brake and tighten the bolt.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s best to fully torque the mounting bolts at this stage because they can move if you torque them retrospectively.<\/p>\n

Remove the tool and check your work \u2013 hopefully that\u2019s job done.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nNew brake tools from Park Tool<\/h2>\n Park Tool has also got some new tools to keep your brakes in full working order.<\/p>\nPark Tool Metric Flare Nut Wrench MWF-3<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Park Tool has also got some new tools to keep your brakes in full working order.<\/p>\nPark Tool Metric Flare Nut Wrench MWF-3<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Park\u2019s MWF-3 is designed to be used either as a standalone tool or as an attachment to its torque wrench<\/a> to torque hose compression nuts and other fittings found on hydraulic disc brake systems.<\/p>\n Historically, there haven\u2019t been many bicycle-specific tools to torque compression nuts \u2013 you\u2019ve either had to go by feel or invest in a crow\u2019s foot attachment, but they\u2019re often not slim enough for bicycle use.<\/p>\n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/i> The tool has a satisfying weight in the hand.<\/span><\/figcaption> Dave Caudery \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n One side features a 7mm wrench fitting and the other an 8mm fitting. The flared head is five-sided, which Park says is to reduce any risk of damaging the bolt.<\/p>\n The tool is suitably slim and low-profile to allow for low-clearance design and it\u2019s built around a \u215c fitting, which conveniently fits Park Tool\u2019s torque wrenches and ratchet drivers.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPark Tool DTD-8 and DTD-10<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Historically, there haven\u2019t been many bicycle-specific tools to torque compression nuts \u2013 you\u2019ve either had to go by feel or invest in a crow\u2019s foot attachment, but they\u2019re often not slim enough for bicycle use.<\/p>\n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div><\/i> The tool has a satisfying weight in the hand.<\/span><\/figcaption> Dave Caudery \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n One side features a 7mm wrench fitting and the other an 8mm fitting. The flared head is five-sided, which Park says is to reduce any risk of damaging the bolt.<\/p>\n The tool is suitably slim and low-profile to allow for low-clearance design and it\u2019s built around a \u215c fitting, which conveniently fits Park Tool\u2019s torque wrenches and ratchet drivers.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPark Tool DTD-8 and DTD-10<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

One side features a 7mm wrench fitting and the other an 8mm fitting. The flared head is five-sided, which Park says is to reduce any risk of damaging the bolt.<\/p>\n

The tool is suitably slim and low-profile to allow for low-clearance design and it\u2019s built around a \u215c fitting, which conveniently fits Park Tool\u2019s torque wrenches and ratchet drivers.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPark Tool DTD-8 and DTD-10<\/h3>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

These typically over-engineered precision T8 and T10 Torx drivers are designed for working on hydraulic disc brake systems. T8 and T10 heads are often found on delicate bleed screw or hose barb fittings, including SRAM\u2019s Stealthamajig.<\/p>\n

The handle is CNC-machined from hard-anodised 6061 aluminium. They have a satisfying weight in the hand and feel as though they\u2019ll last the test of time.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPedro\u2019s Tutto II chain tool<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Pedro\u2019s latest Tutto II chain tool is the brand\u2019s shop-quality, flagship option and is designed to work with all the latest drivetrains<\/a> on the market.<\/p>\n The previous-generation Tutto wasn\u2019t compatible with 12-speed SRAM FlatTop or Campagnolo 13-speed chains.<\/p>\n The Tutto II is designed to work with everything from singlespeed to 13-speed chains and has a number of tricks up its sleeve.<\/p>\n Firstly, there\u2019s a spring-loaded retracting guide pin. This ensures perfect alignment so the tool doesn\u2019t push the pin out at an angle. This is the downfall of many chain tools.<\/p>\n\n <\/i>\n \n \n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n Simply rotate the dial to change the mode. Note there are two dots here, so this mode is for 11-speed chains.<\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n A diagram printed on the handle is a useful reference for the various chain standards. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n The handle is hefty. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n In addition, there\u2019s a rotating fit dial. This is essentially four different backing plates that adapt to the different thicknesses of chains.<\/p>\n These are coded with one, two, three or four dots. There is a diagram on the side of the handle of the tool, so you can check which you need to use depending on the speed or manufacturer of chain you are working on.<\/p>\n The tool is also equipped with a replaceable bridge, meaning new plates can be installed in case (or more likely, when) standards change.<\/p>\n It also features an attachment to peen Campagnolo chains, which is stored in the handle and accessed by a 6mm hex key.<\/p>\n The Tutto II is also serviceable and Pedro\u2019s makes a rebuild kit for it, so it should last you for years to come.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPedro\u2019s Pro Bit Drivers<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The previous-generation Tutto wasn\u2019t compatible with 12-speed SRAM FlatTop or Campagnolo 13-speed chains.<\/p>\n

The Tutto II is designed to work with everything from singlespeed to 13-speed chains and has a number of tricks up its sleeve.<\/p>\n

Firstly, there\u2019s a spring-loaded retracting guide pin. This ensures perfect alignment so the tool doesn\u2019t push the pin out at an angle. This is the downfall of many chain tools.<\/p>\n\n <\/i>\n \n \n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n Simply rotate the dial to change the mode. Note there are two dots here, so this mode is for 11-speed chains.<\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n A diagram printed on the handle is a useful reference for the various chain standards. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n The handle is hefty. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n In addition, there\u2019s a rotating fit dial. This is essentially four different backing plates that adapt to the different thicknesses of chains.<\/p>\n These are coded with one, two, three or four dots. There is a diagram on the side of the handle of the tool, so you can check which you need to use depending on the speed or manufacturer of chain you are working on.<\/p>\n The tool is also equipped with a replaceable bridge, meaning new plates can be installed in case (or more likely, when) standards change.<\/p>\n It also features an attachment to peen Campagnolo chains, which is stored in the handle and accessed by a 6mm hex key.<\/p>\n The Tutto II is also serviceable and Pedro\u2019s makes a rebuild kit for it, so it should last you for years to come.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPedro\u2019s Pro Bit Drivers<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

In addition, there\u2019s a rotating fit dial. This is essentially four different backing plates that adapt to the different thicknesses of chains.<\/p>\n

These are coded with one, two, three or four dots. There is a diagram on the side of the handle of the tool, so you can check which you need to use depending on the speed or manufacturer of chain you are working on.<\/p>\n

The tool is also equipped with a replaceable bridge, meaning new plates can be installed in case (or more likely, when) standards change.<\/p>\n

It also features an attachment to peen Campagnolo chains, which is stored in the handle and accessed by a 6mm hex key.<\/p>\n

The Tutto II is also serviceable and Pedro\u2019s makes a rebuild kit for it, so it should last you for years to come.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nPedro\u2019s Pro Bit Drivers<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

These modular bit-based drivers are designed for working on bolts that require low torque, such as derailleur limit screws.<\/p>\n

The yellow-banded tool features PH1 and PH2 JIS bits to ensure a superlative fit on limit screws, as well as a 5mm flat blade.<\/p>\n

The JIS limit screws, found on many Shimano derailleurs, have a subtly different head design to a Phillips, so you should use the correct fitting to avoid damaging or rounding the screw.<\/p>\n

More recently, Shimano has moved to hex key fittings for its limit screws, but these could still be useful for mechanics working on older kit.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/i>\n \n \n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n The orange-banded tool comes with 2 and 2.5mm hex bits, as well as T25.<\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n PH1 and PH2 JIS bits, as well as a 5mm flat-blade feature on the yellow-banded tool. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n It\u2019s difficult to resist fiddling with the spinning top. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n A bearing is the only suitable candidate for a tool of this quality. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n The orange-banded tool features 2 and 2.5 hex bits and a T25. All of the bits are made from quality S2 steel and you can use other bits, if you wish, because the Pro Bit Drivers accept any \u00bcin bits.<\/p>\n One of the bits fits into a magnetic holder of the tool, while the other two are stored in the ergonomic aluminium handle. The handle rotates on a bearing-mounted end cap, which is deeply satisfying.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nWera Tools 6000 Joker Ratchet Combi Wrench 11pc<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

The orange-banded tool features 2 and 2.5 hex bits and a T25. All of the bits are made from quality S2 steel and you can use other bits, if you wish, because the Pro Bit Drivers accept any \u00bcin bits.<\/p>\n

One of the bits fits into a magnetic holder of the tool, while the other two are stored in the ergonomic aluminium handle. The handle rotates on a bearing-mounted end cap, which is deeply satisfying.<\/p>\n\n Latest deals<\/h5>\n <\/div>\n <\/div><\/div>\n\nWera Tools 6000 Joker Ratchet Combi Wrench 11pc<\/h2>\n\n <\/li>\n<\/ul>

Compared to a typical ~\u00a340 spanner set, the Wera Tools 6000 Joker Ratchet Combi wrench set is eye-wateringly expensive. However, you\u2019re getting seriously good-quality tools that should last a lifetime.<\/p>\n

The set includes 11 colour-coded spanners, starting from 8mm and rising to 19mm (there isn\u2019t a 9mm).<\/p>\n

Stainless Steel Oval Nails The ring-end side of the spanner features a non-reversible ratchet. If you need to change direction, you can simply flip the tool around and use the other side of the ratchet head.<\/p>\n\n <\/i>\n \n \n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n The tools are presented in a carry case. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n These are high-end tools with an accompanying price tag.<\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n Here\u2019s the 10mm wrench.<\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n \n \n\n <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div> \n One end features a ratchet. <\/span>\n <\/figcaption>\n Dave Caudery \/ Our Media <\/i>\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n <\/figcaption><\/figure>