Sometimes, things are awesome and worth sharing, but not quite worth a solo post. So here are three sweet new things from three different brands: Topeak, Funn and Granite.
The Topeak Ratchet Rocket was already one of my favorite mini tools (reviewed here), and now there’s an even better version. The NTX kit includes three torque bits to help ensure you won’t over tighten small bolts or damage delicate components…
Included in the small, jersey-pocket-friendly pouch are a full complement of bits from 2mm to 8mm, including a 2.5, plus a philips head, T10 and T25. Basically everything most bikes need. Three sockets nest together on the other side to hold 4Nm, 5Nm and 6Nm torque wrenches. There’s also an extension and two slim tire levers, all for $89.95.
They’ve also added a larger version of their universal silicone band phone holster to accommodate all the plus-sized phones on the market.
Funn MTB is branching out to a different kind of dirt with their new G-Wide handlebar.
It has a massive 25º flare, 6º backsweep, 110mm reach and 130mm drop. Available in two sizes 480mm (335g, drop end width 600mm) and 500mm (340g, drop end width 620mm), both measured center to center. Retail is $80 for the US market.
We saw an early version of the Granite Design Hex Stand bike stand at Eurobike, but the production version is much better and has a nifty new feature.
The body is AL6061 alloy and is very light. Everything folds out to create the stand, then locks into place so it can’t collapse while your bike is in it. The axle height is adjustable, too, so smaller bikes won’t be held awkwardly (and unstably) high off the ground.
The spindle that slides into your bottom bracket hole is angled just slightly upward to prevent your bike from sliding off too easily, and it comes in a rainbow of colors. But perhaps the most interesting feature is the Shimano crank plug adapter that replaces the stock plastic nut that comes with Shimano cranks for one with a hole in it so you can use their stand. Brilliant. For non-Shimano cranks, the tip has a rubberized section to hold the bike tighter, or slide that off to reveal the slimmer middle section to fit Shimano’s crank spindles. Retail is $79.99, available at the end of May worldwide.
