Granite Design – makers of artistic Stash instruments & easy Strap options – have a brand new RocknRoll TQ torque wrench device equipment. It’s a compact however not tiny ratchet driver for 1/4″ bits, with the additional benefit of a beam-style torque wrench constructed into the top. Roll all of it up in a useful carrying case and it’s sufficiently small to tuck into your pack for rides, strap on to a motorbike, or toss within the automotive for trailhead changes. It’s a pleasant resolution, however not good. And in addition, it’s not likely all that new. We’ve seen variations of this wrench for greater than 5 years now.
In case you are searching for a exact torque wrench – cease studying now and go browse our website for one thing extra appropriate. This ratcheting mini-tool features a torque operate. However with a hard-to-gauge torque ‘window’ and a claimed accuracy of simply +/-15%, it’s extra of a device to present you a ballpark concept of how a lot torque you might be placing right into a bolt.
It’s additionally not likely a brand new product. We already wrote about this similar device a number of years again when PrestaCycle first launched it in 2018, then up to date it to this precise model in 2021. This one is open-mold, however Granite does loads of different distinctive instruments.
However there’s nonetheless worth in that. In a compact measurement which you could really tackle a experience, it’ll assist stop considerably over-tightening a bolt in your fancy carbon elements after a trailside readjustment.
Actual-life impressions
I’ve been enjoying with this light-weight Granite RocknRoll TQ wrench for a number of weeks now – together with utilizing it as a fidget spinner at my desk – and torque precision just isn’t a promoting level in my thoughts. I’ve used quite a few related beam-style instruments. And our Bikerumor crew have handfuls of those low-cost “toque wrenches” in our toolboxes. A number of of us are device geeks, and don’t actually take one thing like this too severely. However it’s “higher than nothing”, and nothing is what numerous cyclists have out on the highway, path, and even parking zone in the case of torque instruments.
But, now with the plethora of carbon elements and delicate torque settings on our bikes, extra moveable torque options are most likely a step in the precise route.
So, it’s correct?
Probably not.
I’ve had a tough time getting dependable repeatable 4 or 5Nm torque settings when working with the curved white line within the window cutout (checked with this correct click-style torque wrench). However I used to be by no means off by greater than 1Nm. Shut sufficient that I tended to err a bit decrease and never fear about it.
I nonetheless benefitted from the speedy ratcheting, although. Bit ratchets pace up numerous duties – like putting in/eradicating bottle cages and different equipment in tight areas. Additionally they supply the flexibility to simply personalize what 1/4″ bits you favor. And this one does an amazing job of giving me the bit I really need, and the extension that I couldn’t reside with out. Most, however not all, mini ratchets embrace some extension. However it’s an absolute necessity when adjusting brakes or fine-tuning cockpit setup.
So, my parting ideas?
The RocknRoll TQ is attention-grabbing, if not good. Good for day-to-day ratchet use, however not likely helpful as a torque wrench with something near accuracy. But, it nonetheless is best than torque-ing by really feel whereas out on a experience.
Tech Specs
- Torque Vary: 2-10Nm
- Torque precision: +/-15%
- Measurement: 133x20x12mm (ratchet device solely) or 152x50x30mm (full device roll)
- Weight: 68g (device solely) or 186g (full device roll)
- Bits included: hex 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, torx T20, T25, phillips PH2 screwdriver
- Additional elastic pocket that may match some spare valve cores, a fast hyperlink, or Apple AirTag (not included)
- Outer belt-style loop to securely strap the device roll to physique or bike
Granite RocknRoll TQ – Pricing, availability & choices
The Granite RocknRoll TQ torque wrench mini-tool equipment sells for $60 with a black anodized physique. You get to select from a black, grey, inexperienced, or crimson 600D polyester roll-up carrying case. For sixty bucks, inside there are 10 of the commonest 1/4″ bits, plus a 5cm extension for attending to these hard-to-reach bolts.
Like the concept, however need it in crimson? PrestaCycle first made this very same device again in 2021, the second iteration of their mini-TorqRatchet. Theirs will get a crimson ano physique, and some extra bits, however not the useful extender. These additionally occur to be on sale proper now for half the worth of the brand new one with a Granite emblem. Or, go together with Granite, perhaps you do want the extra colourful device wraps. Who’re we to evaluate?
