TESTED
Three items tried and tested by our team of experts
To p ea k Mini PT30 £47.9 9
The Topeak Mini PT30 multi-tool packs a comprehensive range of tools into a sleek, small form multi-tool – even after discounting the less useful ones such as the chain hook and the four spoke keys.
Hex keys stretch from an 8mm head, which slips over the 6mm hex, right through to 2mm, so there’s everything here you need to adjust larger components, such as pedal axles, right through to the small limit screws on derailleurs.
In addition, there’s a full range of tubeless repair tools, a reamer, a plug inserter and a serrated blade, obviating the need to carry a separate tubeless repair kit, though you’ll still need to carry a selection of worms. The plug inserter/reamer and the knife blade lock in place in the tool to make them easier to use. There’s an array of three Torx heads as well. Tool makers don’t seem to have settled on which sizes are useful, but if your bike does have Torx bolts anywhere, the main options are covered here. The chain-tool screws into the multi-tool body, so to use it you have to unscrew the punch to release it. The multitool’s 4mm hex head then slots into the end of the punch for leverage. It’s slightly fiddly, but we found there was adequate leverage to work on the chain, and the chain hook helps keep everything in place. It’s brilliant how flat all the tools fold down too – some multi-tools fold in such a way that tools protrude above the chassis rails, making them less easy to stow away in a pocket or saddle bag, but not with the Mini PT30. It’s a well made tool that comes with its own padded soft pouch, but the comprehensive array of tools does make for a weighty piece.
Weight 166g
Nort hwave Veloce Extreme £360
Developed for Filippo Ganna these top-of-the-range race-focused shoes make all the right claims – stiffer and more stable. Northwave say these are the stiffest shoes they’ve ever made with a unidirectional carbon sole and a ‘high tail’ heel cup to give the stability.
But to be commercially viable, shoes need to be comfortable too – no record- breaking performance can take place with aching feet, and this was the feather in the Veloce’s cap. The tongue is integrated into one side of the upper which allows it to wrap over the top of your foot for a snug fit on top,
