With so many components now requiring careful tightening to specific values gone are the days of simply tightening up all your bolts with a basic multi-tool. Granite launched the updated version of its Rocknroll ratchet tool which features a new longer ratchet tool with a torque gauge integrated into the handle.
Many of the best MTB multi-tools now feature torque wrenches or fixed torque bits to try and avoid accidental overtightening that could cause damage and destruction. With a wide range of portable torque wrench options, is the Granite Rocknroll TQ Torque Tool Kit the one to go for?
Design
The kit uses a mini ratchet tool with a long handle and has a switch to flip between tightening and loosening. The knob on the end is used when torquing bolts and the torque being applied is shown via a simple guage. The torque meter is able to measure between 2 and 10 Nm with the gauge showing 0.5 increments. The tool comes with a 10-bit kit that includes seven Hex 1/4in bits (2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm), two Star bits (T20, T25), and Philips bit (PH2), plus there is also a 50mm extension rod.
The tools are all contained in a long but thin velcro tool wrap made from 600D Polyester and secured in elasticated pockets. There is an additional little pocket that could be used to stash small spares like quick links and there’s a loop on the rear for strapping it to your frame with the Granite RockBand. The tool roll measures L150mm x W55mm x H35mm and comes in Black, Grey, Red (tested), and green. The case packed up with tools weighs in at 189g on my scales.
Performance
In use everything clicks together securely, the ratchet is easy to switch between tightening and loosening, and all the bits fit snuggly into bolt heads. The 6 degrees of engagement help when working on bolts where there isn’t much wiggle room. The extender tube is magnetized making jobs involving small fiddly bolts a lot easier, although it would be nice if the tool was also magnetic without the extender tube for those hard-to-reach bolts. Torquing bolts is a simple process, using the end knob to turn the tool and taking the torque reading by aligning the white line with the printed torque ratings on the tool.
Granite quotes the accuracy to be +/-15%, which isn’t all that precise although you won’t get the most accurate reading using the simple sliding manual gauge anyway. Compared to the other torque wrenches at my disposal, my Rocknroll TQ Torque ratchet tool measured marginally higher than the others although not so far out that I would be at much risk of damaging components, worth noting this may only apply to my review sample.
The tool roll is small enough to be easily slipped into a backpack or bikepacking bag although its long shape may not fit well in smaller MTB hip packs or pockets. The case also adds an element of fiddlyness as the bits are stored in a holder secured in an elasticated pocket but they get caught getting it in and out. Instead, I would much prefer to see the bits stored in their individual pockets like Granites Rocknroll Mini Ratchet Tool.
Verdict
Although the torque wrench of the Granite Rocknroll TQ Torque Ratchet Tool is not the most precise, it's certainly better than tightening delicate expensive carbon components trailside with uncalibrated arm and guesswork. The Rocknroll TQ Torque Ratchet Tool covers all the common bolts, has a long handle for plenty of leverage, and feels sturdy and well-made.
Granite isn’t the only one to offer a version of this tool. Birzman Pocket Torque Wrench, Prestacycle TorqRatchet PRO Deluxe, and Topeak TORQ ROCKET Mini EX all feature what looks to be the same or similar ratchet tool with torque wrench. The Birzman option is the cheapest but features fewer bits and doesn’t appear to include a case, the Prestacyce and Topeak have a similar tool selection and are only marginally cheaper.
Considering the functionality on offer Granite’s version seems a little expensive compared to other cheaper and/or more comprehensive tool kits. There are other brands like the Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite DX+, Feedback Sports Reflex Fixed Torque Ratchet Kit, or Syncros Guide Kit Multi Tool. Admittedly none of these kits feature a proper torque meter although considering the accuracy of the Granite tool it's more of a suggestion than perfect precision. If you need a full torque wrench Topeak’s Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ kit has a 2-6Nm adapter. Alternatively, Canyon’s Fix 3-1 tool foregoes torque ratings in favor of tire plugging and inflation functions instead.
Tech specs: Granite Rocknroll TQ Torque Ratchet Tool Kit
- Price: $59.99 / £54.99
- Weight: 2189g (including roll)
- Tools: Hex 1/4in bits (2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm), two Star bits (T20, T25), and Philips bit (PH2), spare link holder
