Effetto Mariposa Giustaforza torque wrench 2-16Nm

With the prevalence of carbon fibre and similarly lightweight components, Effetto Mariposa’s Giustaforza torque wrench is the answer to the home mechanic’s prayer-it’s compact, easy to use, affordable (at least when you consider the implications of component failure) and moreover, accurate. Sure it might seem overkill for one entry-level bike with a carbon composite post but like a decent pump or similarly good tool, it left me wondering how I fettled the fleet before I had it.

Made from beautifully machined, anodised aluminium and measuring 165mm long, the Giustaforza marries traditional Italian flair with mechanical excellence and fine, lazer etched detailing. Cocooned inside its protective sheath, it stows conveniently inside larger seat packs/day bags just ready for those first few post-build roadside tune-ups and the deeply knurled handle prevents slippage and gouged components caused by sweaty palms.

2-16NM ranges covers the most common settings on a bicycle and is simply adjusted by turning the knurled base anti/clockwise to increase or reduce the torque required as shown in a small window integrated into the grip. There’s a good sprinkling of bits provided including 2,2.5, 3,4,5, 6mm Allen wrenches, 5mm hex, T20, T25 Torx and an assortment of flat and Phillips head screwdrivers. These simply slot securely into the magnetised head and so long as the torque setting’s correct (chronic ham-fistedness aside), it’s the end of chewed fasteners and ruined threads. A basic version of the torque wrench is also available without all the extra for £89.99.

I began testing with a set of old-fashioned stem bolts before working up to an uber expensive carbon railed saddle nestling in an aluminium seat post cradle. Cross-referenced beside a friend’s all singing and dancing ultra expensive commercial offering, accuracy isn’t perfect but within 0.5NM-sufficient for all but the most obsessive and nigh on guaranteed to protect costly fittings and components from unnecessary damage.

Verdict

Thoroughly recommended for enthusiast fettlers .