BBB Powerpull crank puller (BTL-14)

The story of my crank puller....

BBB Powerpull Crank Puller (BTL-14)

As I found out the hard way, it's not easy to remove cranks off a square tapered spindle without a crank puller...so I bought a BBB Powerpull crank puller (BTL-14) to give me a hand.

Crank pullers are designed to separate the crank from the bike's bottom bracket.

This particular crank puller can be used on all ISIS spindles, or remove the end cap, and the tool can be used on all square tapered spindles.

I found it very easy to use when I was removing the cranks off a rusty clunker of a bike. The only slight difficulty I had was removing the end cap so I could use it on the square tapered spindle but that was more likely due to a momentary blonde moment!

The BBB Powerpull Crank Puller (BTL-14) is very solidly built so there are no reservations about applying requisite force. Although, in saying that, one should always take care in ensuring that no cross-threading is in action when using this tool.

Simple 'how to use' pictograms were printed on the packaging, which could prove useful for a first time user; particularly as the tool can be used for both types of spindles and requires a part ot be removed is being used for square tapered onee.

Overall, I needed the tool to get the job done, it worked and for the build of the product it was worth the $25 I spent to buy it from Top Gear Cycles as I know it'll be ages until I need to ever need to buy another one.

Topeak Universal Chain Tool (TT1303)

The story of my chain breaker...

Topeak Universal Chain Tool (TT1303)

 

 

 

Needed a chain breaker so went down to one of the many local bike shops, in this case Pack 'n' Pedal and bought a Topeak Universal Chain Tool. Its a nifty little gadget that definitely beats the ole 'hammer & centre punch' trick. This tool comes with a few hidden extras that are quite handy too.

This 2-piece cast CrMo chain tool features a hollow removable handle which can be slipped over a small Allen wrench to provide extra leverage. Includes a chain hook to make chain repair easier,it is compatible with all single speed and most multi-speed chains, including 10 speed hollow pin chain. (Not compatible with 11 speed chains.)

Features:

•  Cast CrMo steel chain tool
•  Stainless steel chain hook wire
•  Hardened steel tool
•  Chain pin breaker
•  Chain pin compartment
•  Weighs 82g
•  Size: 8.3 x 4.3 x 1.5 cm

I love it how the packaging says "...can be used as a hammer.." The tool is only 8.3 cm long so I'm sure it can be used a hammer, albeit not a very useful one!

Overall, very please with this buy. The tool is of a sturdy build yet lightweight and easy to use. It's perfect to pop into the backpack on long trail rides out of cellphone range or where help can't come quick enough to fix a broken chain.