Lifeline Performance Track Chainwhip

Resembling something from a 70's martial arts flick, the Lifeline Performance track chain whip is essentially two tools in one designed to liberate 1/8in or 3/32in fixed sprockets.

Pity these poor creatures, throttled inconceivably tight by beefy chains and rider effort. Those serving on winter hacks/trainers are also subjected to a cocktail of wet, silty roads without seeing so much as a lick of marine grease from one season to the next.

Leverage is what's required to grant them absolution and with a handle measuring a colossal 35cm, there's no shortage of it here. Its 3mm thick, heat treated steel construction feels reassuringly solid too, overcoming fears that such giraffe-like stature might turn to blancmange under Herculean effort.

Then of course, we've the range's signature rubberised handle, which is designed for comfort and optimal control, even in hot greasy palms. This accounts for 15cm of the overall length and theoretically relegates grazed knuckles, power-lifter grunting and agricultural outbursts to the stuff of folklore.

However, so-so machining meant the lock-ring remover head's engagement with many lock-rings was sloppy. This was easily countered by wrapping the head around the farthest spline while simultaneously applying incremental force. With the exception of one particularly crusty example, none required penetrant spray and all spun free within 90 seconds.

Sprocket removal proved more rewarding, the riveted chain links meshing handsomely with all our sprocket selection. Bound tight, the serrated handle and sheer mechanical advantage vanquished even the scabbiest within thirty seconds and using moderate force.

Ultimately, there's a lot on offer here for home mechanics who want a convenient functional tool for occasional use but passionate track riders and road fixers regularly experimenting with ratios would benefit from spending a bit more.

Verdict

Serviceable staple that gets the job done but would benefit from more precision.