We have three torque wrenches lying around the Bikerumor office, but the only non-digital one is Effetto Mariposa’s Guistaforza Pro. It offers a range of torque capacity from 2Nm to 16Nm, more than enough for most bicycle repairs and adjustments.
What sets it apart from the digital units, other than the lack of batteries and LCD screens, is the industrial feel and weight of the CNC’d aluminum body. It’s not heavy per se -under 200g- but it feels rugged and solid, with a healthy click at the torque limit and knurled grip to keep it from slipping.
Several versions are available, including a standard (aka non-Pro) model and a longer 10-60Nm model. See what makes this one special…
To set the torque measurement where the wrench breaks away to prevent over tightening, simply twist the knob at the end until the white line sits aside the desired number. Super easy, and super quick. The dial is tensioned, so it requires willful turning, then holds in place during use. It won’t slip or self adjust when you’re not looking.
The Pro model adds a ratcheting head, letting you keep the bit in the bolt while tightening rather than having to remove it to rotate the tool – a real time saver, particularly in tight spots where you can’t get a ton of rotation per twist. Technically, it means you can reverse the direction and loosen bolts, too, but we generally recommend avoiding that with torque wrenches to maintain their calibration.
The deluxe kit includes a number of standard 1/4″ bits (listed in pic above) as well as three 100mm long bits (4/5/T25) in some of the more common sizes. There’s also a 100mm long extension piece with a female end to hold any other 1/4″ bit.
Effetto Mariposa guarantees accuracy to within +/-4% for 5,000 clicks, after which they recommend sending it in for calibration service (€35 plus shipping). The Giustaforza II Pro kit retails for $249.99. The standard version is about $185. They’re available in the  U.S. through Cantitoe Road.
We really like the solid feel and firm “click” when the desired resistance has been met and screws are properly torqued. That, and the hard anodized red finish looks boss.
UPDATE: The Pro model reviewed here includes one free calibration, including shipping back & forth. U.S. customers will be serviced through Cantitoe Road, and subsequent calibrations run $50. CR’s Andy Frothingham says “5000 clicks is a lot for an average consumer, it usually takes many, many years to get to this point. Shops may need to re-calibrate every few years. The only time we see wrenches need re-calibrations any sooner is if they neglect to un-tension the wrench after use.”