Test: SKS has named its multitool TOM – why? TOM stands for Tour Mechanic and that actually perfectly describes the preferred area of application for the little helpers: If something breaks on the road, you usually need tools, but why carry half the tool case with you? Tools like the TOM offer (almost) everything you need for a quick repair.
Features
[easy table th=“0″]Inbus,2.5/3/2×4/5/6/8mm
Torx,T25
Phillips/slotted screwdriver
Spoke wrench, 14g/15g
Miscellaneous, chain tool
,Brake pad opener
,Tire iron
,Bottle opener
[/easy table]The SKS TOM 18 comes in a stylish and practical neoprene bag and the low weight is immediately noticeable when you first touch it: the small tool collection weighs not even 200g and is therefore 100% suitable for jersey pockets. However, if you think that SKS has saved on the functions in order to reduce the weight, you are wrong: everything you need on the go (and even more...) is on board. The only thing missing in contrast to the competition is a 2mm Allen key, but you really only need it in exceptional situations.
However, why SKS chose to include a giant, plastic piece designed solely to hold a spare chain pin will remain their secret. While it's quite handy, it doesn't come at the expense of so much space in a small multi-tool. On the other hand, the brake pad opener for disc brakes is nice if you accidentally pull on the lever with the wheel removed and have to get the pads apart again - which can happen in the heat of the moment on the trail.
application
The processing of the small tool is typical for SKS at a high level. The keys all make a valuable impression and the chain rivet pusher is stable enough for use even with stuck rivet pins. Only the tire levers make a very fragile impression and are also not particularly handy.
handling
The SKS Tom 18 masters practical use with flying colours: the predominately long tools make screwdriving considerably easier and the stable construction does not twist, even with greater exertion. Only the already mentioned tire levers prove not only to not inspire confidence, but also not particularly handy. You can usually get the tire on and off with it, but we think that could have been solved better.
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