Borrowing a few bits from its S.O.S range, Crankbrothers has brought more functionality to its F range of multi-tools in its F16 offering. It uses all of the same stuff we found on the F15, but it boasts one extra feature, puncture repair for tubeless tyres. While this tool brings more to the ad hoc bike repair party, it brings extra bulk, and it’s more prone to squishing. I’ll expand on that later.
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Crankbrothers F16 multi-tool – Technical details
The F16 from Crankbrothers uses a near-identical construction to that of the F15 that we tested in 2019 (and quite liked). That means it gets a separate multi-tool set, and an 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12-speed compatible chain breaker that both slide into a neat magnetic case that doubles as a handle, for extra leverage. The built-in bottle opener gets bonus points, too.
With that, it offers 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm Allen keys as well as a T25 Torx. Additionally, you get a Phillips screwdriver, a flat-head screwdriver, the chain tool, #0, 1, 2, 3 spoke wrenches, and a valve core remover. It’s safe to say that with this alone, it’s a pretty comprehensive bit of kit.
However, Crankbrothers has built upon that as the F16 includes a tubeless repair kit that slides on top of the tool’s case. Inside that little plastic home, there’s a reamer and plug insertion tool, as well as a handful of plugs. That same case can also hold a quick link. Handy.
Measuring in at 86 x 40 x 25mm, there’s definitely an extra bit of size added to the tool, owing to that tubeless repair kit, but it’s fairly compact, considering the selection of tools it packs.
Crankbrothers says that the F16 weighs 182g, while I’ve weighed it to be 184g.
Crankbrothers F16 multi-tool – Performance
I’ve been using the F16 for a good few months now, and to be honest, because it contains so much in such a relatively small package, it’s become a go-to for all kinds of rides. It’s not without some issues, however.
Ergonomically, the F16 is a bit of a powerhouse. The multi-tool section of it, or the bit that holds all of the Allen keys, is pretty much what you would expect from a small-ish folding multi-tool. All of the bits are perfectly sharp, and it’s easy to use. I’m yet to round a bolt using it.
The chain tool is mighty handy, too. In my F15 review, I knocked its bolt for being a little shallow, and it still is on the F16, which does bring some concern with rounding the bolt under increased pressure from a particularly stubborn chainlink, but it’s worked flawlessly throughout the test.
What makes the F16 extra ergonomic is that its magnetic case can be used to achieve extra leverage from the tool. Not that any bolt really needs that much leverage, but it’s useful when attacking a chain’s pins.
But because of the extra bulk that comes with the tubeless repair kit on top, I have managed to squish the tool inward. Once that happened, the folding multi-tool became very difficult to remove and replace. This can be an issue with the F15, which doesn’t get the tubeless repair kit, but because the kit is more pronounced, it’s more prone to compression.
When this happened, I got in touch with Crankbrothers’ UK distributor, Extra, and I was told that this would be swiftly replaced under warranty.
Crankbrothers F16 multi-tool – Verdict
Priced at £60, the F16 is a bit more of an investment, but it does contain pretty much everything you’ll need from a modern multi-tool. However, a real favourite of mine is Topeak’s £50 PT30. It’s a smaller multi-tool that comes with 14 more functions, including a tubeless repair kit. It just doesn’t come with a place to store tubeless plugs.
Lezyne’s Super SV multi-tool comes in at £62 and comes with more functions again. It’s a much slimmer multi-tool, and it comes with a tubeless repair kit as well as a neat place to carry plugs. While thinner, it is wider and larger, so bear that in mind if you’re considering this one.
If you’re looking to carry some serious repair potential in a reasonably small and easily carryable package, look no further. The Crankbrothers F16 is easy to use and carries the essential bits and pieces for most bike mishaps. However, its case is prone to compression, and it is a little bulkier and spendier than some excellent alternatives.
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Product purpose:
Build extra:
T25 Torx tool
Phillips screwdriver
Flat Head screwdriver
Tire plug tool + 3x plugs
Chain tool
#0,1,2,3 spoke wrenches
Weight: 182g
5 year warranty
Product construction
Product construction extra:
Product performance
Product performance extra:
Product durability
Product durability extra:
product value
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