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review
Tools - multitools
Birzman Feexman Cicada Carbon 10 functionBirzman Feexman Cicada Carbon 10 function

Birzman Feexman Cicada Carbon 10 function

9
by Caven O'Hara
UPDATED Thu, Oct 15, 2015 04:24

First Published May 20, 2013

1
£39.99

VERDICT:

9
10
A stylish and lightweight multi tool, that performs well while looking good
Weight: 
103g
Contact: 
www.i-ride.co.uk
How we test

At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.

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First impressions of the Birzman Feexman Cicada multi tool are it's a lot easier to use than to pronounce.

It's a nice piece of kit, well made and even has a rubber sleeve to keep it pristine. Remove the sleeve and the first thing that strikes you is how compact and polished it is for a multi tool with 10 functions. One of those is a chain link tool.

The whole unit is light and small which is down to not only the size of it but the fact the chain tool is aluminium and the side panels are made from carbon. It fits neatly in your hand and when you've finished, folds into a small package to slip back in your pack or pocket.

Besides the chain tool you also get a cross head screwdriver and hexkeys with sizes ranging from 2mm up to 8mm. Enough for most road side operations.

The main chain tool attachment fits on to the rivet removal arm and makes for a very neat operation. It's a nice smooth turning action and you have plenty of grip to make the all important break.

The other tools provide a similar feel and are easy to use. Birzman's company ethos is 'to make maintenance fun and enjoyable.' Their line-up of multi tools numbers nine and they all look as good. Some are only made with aluminium, some offer less functionality, others more.

If this is a fair representation of their range, then things are looking good. When you do need tools whether at home or out and about you want something that will achieve its stated aim without fuss. The bonus is it looks good too and will make for a very nice addition to your riding essentials.

Verdict

A stylish and lightweight multi tool, that performs well while looking good.

road.cc test report

Make and model: Birzman Feexman Cicada Carbon 10 function

Size tested: 10 function

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Most riders carry a multi tool and the Birzman Feexman Cicada is one of the most compact I have seen for a while. It is well made and looks good.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

With ten functions it isn't the largest tool on the market but what it does have is a chain tool.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
9/10

This is well made, lightweight and stylish multi tool. Made from aluminium and carbon, what's not to like?

Rate the product for performance:
 
9/10

The addition of a chain tool while retaining its compact shape keeps everything small and tidy. Ideal for a pack or pocket.

Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10

The materials used in the construction of the Feexman ensure this will last.

Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
9/10

By keeping the overall size small and using both aluminium and carbon the Feexman is lightweight.

Rate the product for value:
 
9/10

Some might argue the price is a little too steep bearing in mind it has ten functions. What you do get is a well made and light tool.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

The ten functions packed into the Feexman are all the standard attachments you would expect but the addition of a chain tool is very useful in something so compact.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

The chain tool attachment, the compact size and lack of weight all add up to a very stylish multi tool.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

The price may put some off but I'm struggling to find anything else to put me off the Feexman.

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.

Would you consider buying the product? Yes.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes.

Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?

I don't normally get excited about multi tools but the Birzman range has me tweaking things just so I can use the Feexman.

Overall rating: 9/10

About the tester

Age: 44  Height: 178cm  Weight: 80kg

I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three  My best bike is: As above

I've been riding for: 5-10 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, mtb, Not yet but looking to dip my toe in the world of TT

 

tool
multi tool
Birzman Feexman Cicada Carbon 10 function
Birzman

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1 comments

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kiwiglider | 11 years ago
0 likes

Really like mine. Beautiful bit of engineering.

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