I need a multi-tool...
 

I need a multi-tool/saddlebag sized 7mm Allen key

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Retro road bikes are lovely but older standard bolts are a pain in the bum.

Saddle clamp is a 7mm Allen key - finally tracked down a long handled version in a set at Halfords for the garage, but my Google Fu is weak in finding one on a multi tool or a single one small enough to pop in a saddle bag.

Anyone got a suggestion where to find one online?


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 9:58 am
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Plenty online, e.g. https://www.cutwel.co.uk/general-tools/screwdrivers-allen-keys-bits/allen-keys-torx-tools/7mm-long-reach-hexagon-allen-keys-atorn-52116570 Obv look for cheap P&P or a local engineering supplier

Cut it down, angle grinder will be quickest


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 10:10 am
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Cut it in half to make it shorter. Or just strap it to the underside of the saddle if it’s only ever needed on that bike.


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 10:17 am
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Or just buy a new bolt from ebay. Probably cheaper option.

The only thing I've ever seen 7 mm hex on is car brake calipers. That's why they tend to be long arm hex keys. Are you sure it's not imperial?


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 10:51 am
zerocool and zerocool reacted
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As it's an old bike, is it actually a 9/32"? You might have more success looking for one of those.


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 10:54 am
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B&Q sell cheap sets of short handled Allen keys, the B&Q local to me used to offer imperial and metric sizes too.


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 11:26 am
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As it’s an old bike, is it actually a 9/32″? You might have more success looking for one of those.

That's what I'd assumed but the guy who restored it and an LBS both confirmed 7mm was correct


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 2:16 pm
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mm hex key sizes have been in use on decent bikes since the late 70s; yep, I'm that old. Other stuff on the same bike will be imperial, e.g. bearings and wheelnuts


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 3:03 pm
 Aidy
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Use a 3mm and a 4mm together?


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 3:48 pm
zerocool, MoreCashThanDash, zerocool and 1 people reacted
 Aidy
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Alternatively get something like this ( https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/364707046639?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=9RtuYQ4-SxO&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=kQvGtg5dTuC&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY ) and swap it with the T25 bit in a Topeak ratchet tool or something.


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 4:00 pm
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I've a SKS multitool with 7mm on it.

Perfect for rear ehub.

Less so for getting leverage on a saddle bolt though. I would still want a longer tool.

Have you considered instead of spending £10-20 on a tool you buy a different seat post?


 
Posted : 13/04/2024 4:09 pm