Pedros ICM Multi Tool

The Pedro's ICM multi-tool is a 17-function model that follows the pocket workshop narrative. Personally, I'd opt for something smaller and lighter when out on a pared-to-the-essentials best bike, but in most respects it delivers.

Resin bodies aren't what I expect at this end of the market, although Pedro's has used a high quality variant that doesn't feel particularly whippy under load. It also fits comfortably in the palm when applying a bit more leverage.

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The hardened chrome vanadium steel tool bits are just the right length, possibly a bit overkill for some but extremely practical for tourers, mountain bikes and others in hard, daily service. The tools have a corrosion-inhibiting satin finish which is helped by an occasional oily rag wipe-over, but there's been no hint of unsightly freckling after several days in a soggy wedge pack or saddlebag.

Whether you should tot up three spoke keys individually in your tool tally is debatable, but nevertheless 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8mm Allen keys, Mavic-specific M7 and two traditional spoke wrenches (3.2 and 3.5mm), chain tool, a bottle opener, flat blade and crosshead screwdrivers, two tyre levers, and a T25 Torx is pretty good going.

Sequential order is another plus. Being able to pick them out intuitively definitely saves time, whether you're nipping an Aheadset tight along a dark lane or just giving bikes once-overs in the garage before a big ride.

A lfetime warranty inspires further confidence, as does the precise fit of each bit – no fears of slipping and taking a chunk out of you or your bike when undoing a reluctant fastener.

I've used the T25 when tackling shoe cleats, mudguard bridge bolts and similar 4mm fasteners that are constantly blasted with gritty water, and all relented with moderate persuasion.

The chain tool is the familiar flip-out type, which is equally well made and user-friendly. Using the tool body's length provides additional torque, so splitting and rejoining more weathered examples isn't too challenging. I'm yet to go the 11-speed route, but 7, 8, 9 and 10-speed models were easily split, joined and stiff links sorted.

Beneath this sit the 'standard' spoke keys. These are nice to use and good enough to coax a wandering rim back into line.

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All functions deserve their space on the body, but some are firmly in dire emergency territory. Namely, the two resin tyre levers that ride shotgun on the body, and the stubby 8mm bit.

Yes, I've been able to coax 28 and 32mm tyres on and off with only moderate effort, but tighter fitting 23 and 25mm rubber induced a cuss-fest and I was glad I never forgot my standard, full size composite models.

There's just enough length in the 8mm bit to perform a pedal swap, and in theory the same should be said for crank bolts. In practice, it will wind a loose crank tight enough to limp home, or to a friend's house/bike shop, butt proved particularly awkward to use on older Shimano LX and Alivio mountain bike patterns.

Overall, it's a well made and pretty comprehensive multi tool, if a little large for carrying around if you don't need all the bits. But taking your favourite tyre levers and a separate 8mm Allen key might save your riding companion's/wildlife's ears.

Verdict

Comprehensive multi-tool for most situations, but bear in mind the short 8mm bit