Compact, slim and wide, the Lezyne CRV 19 multi-tool measures 86x53x21mm when closed, but even with its all-metal construction it weighs just 159g.
It has 2mm and 2.5mm L-shaped hex keys (to reduce twist), plus straight 3-8mm hex keys, a chain tool with three spoke keys (one for Mavic wheels), T25 Torx, Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, tyre lever with 10mm open spanner, bottle opener with 8mm open spanner and a disc pad wedge. It all slips into a neoprene pouch for protection.
Lezyne have kept the length of each tool down, which is fine for most applications, as few hex bolts are hard to reach, but some headset preload adjusters might be tricky.
The two smallest L-shaped hex keys are a bit fiddly, and the CRV’s width can slow you down when you’re trying to rotate it in a tight space. But the construction has a high quality feel, the chain breaker works superbly and with discs going mainstream its disc pad wedge could prove handy too.
Lightweight forged and anodised aluminium side plates are solid and offer great purchase, even with gloves. The nickel-plated chrome vanadium and stainless steel tools rotate smoothly on stainless steel fastenings, their forged pivots increasing individual tool rigidity.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.