Depending on the frame, internal routing can be a mechanics worst nightmare. Fortunately Park Tool is here to help with their new IR-1 internal cable routing kit. Comprising of 3 different 250cm cables with strong magnets at one end, and unique fittings at the other for electronic wires, shift/brake housing, hydraulic lines, or cables at the other. Using the supplied external guide magnet with reversed polarity from the cables, the guide cables should feed right through the frame and snap into place with the guide. Then simply pull the wire/housing/cable through the frame and you’re set. While probably not the first company or individual to think of this, the IR-1 being readily available as a kit through Park Tool is sure to make a lot of mechanics’ lives much easier.
The IR-1 may be one of the most exciting new tools for 2015, but the rest are certainly worth a look after the break…
Park is fairly synonymous with truing stands which is why you’ll probably find at least one TS stand at your local bike shop. New for 2015 is a new version of their latest truing stand, the TS 2.2. Clad in Park Tool Blue powdercoat instead of the nickel chrome plating of the original, the finish helps get the price down to a lower level. Otherwise it retains all of the same features as the standard 2.2.
Forget the chain whip, check out Park’s new CP-1 chain whip pliers. Effective on cogs from 9-24t, the pliers feature a spring loaded return that allows easy one handed use for quick cassette changes.
Obviously more of a shop level tool, the new DT-5 disc brake mount facing set has been updated to fit all front and rear brake standards and most axle widths. The kit includes cutters for IS and post mount brake mounts, and fits 100 and 135mm QR dropouts, as well as 100 (15 and 20mm), 135, 142, 150, and 157mm thru axle dropouts.
It may be hard to get excited about the lowly hex wrench, but when you’re searching for hard to find larger sizes you’ll probably be happy to know that Park now offers 8, 11, 12, 14, and 15mm sizes separately. The larger sizes are needed for removing many freewheels and other odd tasks.
Park’s new SZR-1 scissors are nicely designed for around the shop tasks, while the UP-Set of utility picks offer another option for shops to find the useful tools. The DH-1 dummy hub joins a number of options from other companies. The device holds the chain when the wheel isn’t installed for cleaning and transport and is compatible with QR or thru axle frames.
