Bicycle tool test: With the Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit, the US brand Park Tool has put together a set that is supposed to contain everything that is needed for elementary maintenance and cleaning work on a bicycle. The extensive range is delivered in an individually expandable tool box with a tray insert and small compartments.
General information about the manufacturer
The US brand Park Tool has been making bicycle-specific tools for 60 years. The company was founded by Art Engstrom and Howard Hawkins, whose son Eric runs the company today. Unlike other tool manufacturers, Park Tool has specialized exclusively in the development and production of bicycle tools. The products enjoy a very good reputation worldwide, both among hobbyists and professional mechanics.
Park Tool AK-5 Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit: First impressions
No Park Tool product doesn't come without a blue finish, and the bike tool case is no exception. But it's not just the look alone that sets the plastic case apart from the competition. The hinges equipped with a metal pin and the metal closure underline the high quality standards of the designers. The design of the case allows for an uncomplicated addition of individually required tools and accessories. The small compartments at the top are ideal for this, but there is still enough space inside the bicycle tool case. The enclosed "Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair" does not skimp on valuable tips, but it is in English.
Processing and feel
With freely configurable tool cases without a predefined foam insert, a little more "organizational talent" is required when storing the tools - this is also the case with the Park Tool AK-5 Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit. Anyone who chooses this form of bicycle tool storage is of course consciously accepting it. The quality of the individual tools is at the highest level and leaves no room for criticism. The feel of the grip and the efficient use of force when working are absolutely inspiring. The chain tool, which is also extremely solid, impresses with its great feel. The experience of the manufacturer is clearly noticeable here - and that he has set himself up specifically for bicycles.
Which repairs are possible and can the tool convince in use?
The set includes, among other things, a chain whip with pedal wrench, an adjustable 12-inch open-end wrench, a brake disc alignment tool and a cable cutter - all very solidly manufactured. The list could be extended to include many tools such as cone wrenches. The dummy hub is also extremely useful, making it much easier to transport the bike or to carry out maintenance when the rear wheel is removed. The set also comes with a chain brush and a chain scrubber for cleaning the drive. However, we are missing a bottom bracket wrench as well as a crank puller or a dust cap wrench. We would welcome a larger selection of Torx keys as well as - for the price - a torque wrench.
Park Tool AK-5 Advanced Mechanic Tool Kit in detail
Content:
1 x chain wear gauge (CC-4)
1 x Cyclone Chain Brush (CM-5.3)
1 x Cable Cutter (CN-10)
1 x Chainring Nut Wrench (CNW-2)
1 x chain tool (CT-3.3)
1 x Double End Cone Wrench (DCW-1)
1 x Double End Cone Wrench (DCW-2)
1 x Double End Cone Wrench (DCW-3)
1 x dummy hub (DH-1)
1 x Brake Disc Alignment Tool (DT-2)
1 x sprocket puller (FR-5.2)
1 x GearClean brush (GSC-1)
1 x chain whip with pedal wrench (HCW-16.3)
1 x Y Allen Key (AWS-1)
1 x Y Torx Wrench (TWS-3)
1 x L Hex Key Set (HXS-1.2)
1 x chain lock pliers (MLP-1.2)
1 x Adjustable 12" open-end wrench up to max. 36 mm (PAW-12)
1 x tape measure (RR-12)
1 x Phillips screwdriver (SD-2)
1 x slotted screwdriver (SD-3)
1 x spoke wrench 3.23 mm (SW-0)
1 x spoke wrench 3.45 mm (SW-2)
1 x tire lever set (TL-1.2)
1 x valve core wrench (VC-1)
1 x Big Blue Book of Bike Repair (BBB-4)
Suitcase:
Material: Plastic
Dimensions: 42 x 20 x 19 cm (including handles / overhang)
Weight complete (with tools): Approximately 4,8 kg
