Aah, bit-based multi tools. On the one hand is the inevitability of the bit one so desperately needs to have buried itself in the muck three snack breaks ago. On the other hand is the ability to customise one’s tool kit with that why on earth did they spec that T30 main pivot bit (take note, Turner owners). For whatever reason, after years of ever-shrinking mini toools, the interchangeable-tip tool is having a bit (ahem) of a resurgence at the moment- with Fix-It Sticks, Crank Brothers, and Topeak all offering variations on the theme.
Today we can add Altum Designs to that list. The London-based company’s Modual tool system, currently half-way to a £17,000 Kickstarter goal, consists of a magnetised carbon steel body (the MTS) which can turn standard 1/4in bits in either screwdriver or wrench positions. The body itself can holster up to four bits while a pair of magnetised tyre levers snap to the sides for a tidy (if somewhat large) package. Three different spoke wrenches are cast into the body proper- but sadly no valve core remover is included.
What makes the package more complete is the available MTR tool wrap. A cross-shaped Cordura burrito, the MTR itself has slots for five more bits, a zippered pouch for sundries like chain links, derailleur hangers, or tyre boots, and a magnetised patch to keep any bits removed from the tool from making a bid for freedom.
Impressively for a low-volume product, the MTS tool is priced from £19, or £35 with the MTR tool wrap (subject to funding, estimated delivery December 2016). Granted, the lack of a chain tool and core remover may rule Modual out for mountain bikers and the MTR’s tube strap is clearly sized for road rather than mountain bike tubes. That said, Altum could be on the right track- while all-in-one mini tools are fine for short jaunts having a larger, customisable package is key to keeping bigger rides from turning into still bigger hikes- and few will deny the convenience of having all of one’s tools and spares in an easy-to-locate package.
While a little large for a jersey pocket, the MTS and MTR were clearly designed with road use in mind. Given that, what would you like to see added (or left off) in a mountain bike version?
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Looks like an interesting tool kit and I like being able to tailor the bits the ones I need for my bike. I get the comment over the lack of chain tool (although to be honest I carry a separate one because I have yet to find a really useful one on a multitool) but I have never felt that I have need to remove a valve core while out on the trail. Road bike is different – if I need to change tubes on my deep section wheels then I have to remove the valve core. Since my core remover is the size of a 5p, I am sure it will fit in that zip pocket along with emergency patches (for road bike).
I’ve used a spoke key for removing valves quite regularly; won’t one of them fit on this tool?