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May 25, 2023

Crankbrothers M19 multi

The complete multi-tool from Crankbrothers This competition is now closed By Vicky Balfour Published: April 15, 2023 at 9:00 am The M19 is one of the most comprehensive of the Crankbrothers M-series

The complete multi-tool from Crankbrothers

This competition is now closed

By Vicky Balfour

Published: April 15, 2023 at 9:00 am

The M19 is one of the most comprehensive of the Crankbrothers M-series of multi-tools.

As the name suggests, it comprises 19 different tools, including a chain breaker.

It is sold with a hard-shell case that protects the steel tools from the elements when you’re out riding.

All 19 tools are machined from high-tensile steel. They include a wide range of Allen keys (2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8mm) and the two most common sizes of Torx key (T10 and T25).

In addition, the M19 has both flat and Phillips head screwdrivers, a chain breaker, spoke keys and both 8mm and 10mm wrenches.

The textured shafts along either side of the multi-tool make it easy to grip.

We tested this multi-tool in the depths of a wet and cold British winter. Such conditions tend to result in a reluctance to trust tools unless you know they’re going to be easy to use and work well with winter gloves on.

The M19’s lozenge-shaped case is easy to find in a hip pack or hydration pack and keeps the tools safe from moisture (from the sky or the trails).

It’s easy to see the individual tools (the larger ones have their size stamped on them) and access them without having to pull out every other tool in the set.

The tools are cleanly cut and fit well in screws. Holding the tool body at 90 degrees to the nut, you’re able to put force through without the tool slipping and rounding off bolts.

The uniform length of each tool (3cm) means you can reach even the most tucked away screw and still turn the tool body, without having to remove and replace the multi-tool every quarter-turn.

In-built chain breakers are fantastic when they work. This one has a solid pin and good guides to hold the chain in place. It is easy to turn and break the chain.

Including an 8mm as well as a 10mm wrench means you can tighten nuts on brake hoses if they begin to leak.

While having two sizes of Philips head screwdriver is not essential, it’s a nice option and comes in handy with some derailleurs.

The shape of the M19 makes it more comfortable to use than the similar Park Tool MTB-5 I’ve also tested.

The M19 is undoubtedly one of the best multi-tools you can buy.

It has everything you need, including an effective chain breaker, and it’s comfortable to use.

I would reach for it repeatedly and, thanks to its protective case, it will last you for years.

Vicky rediscovered a love of cycling as an adult and relishes the joyful freedom it brings. She went on to train as a bike mechanic while working at her local bike shop, before branching out into event mechanics and teaching. Vicky now combines working as an event nomad across the UK (and at races like Megavalanche in France), with sharing her love of bike mechanics through teaching and YouTube. Vicky is equally as happy when pedalling solo, as she is with her family and/or friends. She is regularly seen swapping between her all-mountain full-suss, her CX/gravel bike and her beloved – resprayed, rebuilt – hybrid with her daughter attached on an adaptive trike.