Crank Brothers is a brand which is no stranger to shaking up the bicycle industry. They have re-invented the wheel, brought ground breaking pedal designs to the market, and introduced clever, chic multi-tools.
The Crank Brothers Y-16 Multi-Tool
The new Crank Brothers Y-16 Multi-Tool sits at the top of their list for usable tools. It’s features include:
- CO2 Inflator
- Chain Tool: 8/9/10 speed compatible
- Spoke Wrenches: #0, 1
- Hex Wrenches: #2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
- Screwdrivers: phillips #2, flat #2
- Torx: t-10, t-25
Most muli-tools in this price bracket do not feature a C02 Inflator and its nice to have this included along with all the other emergency bits you may need all in one unit.
Initial Impressions
Construction
The Y-16 is no lightweight. At 260 grams it is a utilitarian multi-tool not meant for any weight weenie. This is a good thing when it comes to a do-all tool as it signifies quality. When holding the Y-16 it becomes apparent that a lot of thinking outside the box has come into play with this multi-tool. The 2 Y-tools which hold the Torx and allen head keys are held together with internal magnets, with the C02 inflator, chain tool, and small stash of bits surrounding this.
There are a lot of great materials being used with intricate stamping and forging. It is interesting that all of these quality crafted items are held together with a plastic skeleton. The torx bits are held into a canister with a piece of foam instead of a hinged top.
We will put this multi-tool through a thrashing and have a follow up review of how it holds up!