Crank Brothers M17 Multitool

Crank Brothers is one of those brands that generally makes things I don’t like: really tiny pumps that move air at the speed of a sloth getting his VO2 test on quaaludes, pedals that release cleats when they hit rocks, that sort of thing.  But occasionally Crank Brothers knocks it out of the park.  One of those home runs is the M17 tool.  I don’t think it’s been updated for a decade or more, but the M17 is perfect as it is.  The 17 number comes from how many functions this tool has.  They include all of the normal hex sizes, from 8mm to 2mm, a phillips head screw driver, a flat head screw driver, t-25 key, 4 sizes of spoke wrench, a chain breaker, an 8 and 10mm box wrench. 

There are smaller and lighter multitools and bigger ones, but arguably not better ones.  In terms of durability, ease of use, the M17 is hard to beat.  We say: get this tool if you are not weight weenie, and supplement it with just a few additional tools to complete your kit.  We like to carry an extra loose 4 and 5mm hex, a set of mini chain pliers, a reliable pump with some gorilla tape wrapped around the handle. 

Looking for the lightest fully functional multi tool?  Check out the Topeak Ninja. 

A word on color: This tool comes in lots of colors.  The gold in the pic is one example.  There's also black, red, splatter.  What you're gunna receive, color wise, is a lottery.  It's based on what is in stock at the distributor.  In other words, it's luck of the draw.