A torque wrench is a tool that will allow you to tighten all the bolts and components on your bike to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications, drastically reducing the chance of damaging any parts or having them work loose while riding. Modern bikes and components all have specific torque ratings, and adhering to them can prevent damage, overtightening certain parts can damage or even crush carbon fibre. Owning one will help you work on your bike accurately and safely and even help you save money.
A torque wrench will allow you to quickly and safely tighten your bike's fasteners or bolts to the correct torque spec every time. Helping you protect the delicate and lightweight components that are now so commonplace on the best road bikes, as well as prevent a failure or mechanical whilst out on a ride.
If you're shopping for a torque wrench it's pretty easy to work out what you need. When it comes to choosing, pick one that operates over a range that is closest to what the components on your bike require. You can read about this in detail at the bottom of the page in our how to choose section. Once you know what your bike needs you can narrow down your search.
I've done lots of research in creating this guide which should really help improve your torque knowledge if you're pretty new to torque wrenches, and provide some interesting tech information if you're more experienced. I interviewed big brand manufacturers for torque tips and advice, chatted with bike, car and plane mechanics, and even took torque wrenches to a calibration lab to see if they were still accurate after lots of use.
The Pedro's Demi torque wrench takes the best overall spot in the guide. It's a compact, quality wrench that comes in a tool roll with a handy range of included bits. It works over a 3-15Nm range so will deal with most standard fasteners on a bike with ease. It's a great option if you're looking for a strong all-rounder.
If you're unsure what to consider when buying or want to learn more, head to the bottom of the page for my guide on how to choose and information on how we test where you can find loads of handy info as well as read about other units we have tested.
Torque Glossary
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Some specific terminology comes with torque wrenches. We are going to outline some of the common terms in this guide before we begin so you can follow the buying advice easily and understand everything. We know it can be confusing sometimes when you keep reading a term, but don't completely understand what it means or refer too.
Torque: A way of measuring the force applied to an object that moves.
Newton metre (Nm): A measurement of torque
Square drive: The square connection on the torque wrench that can connect with a range of sockets or tools
Bits: The small Hex or Torx tool bits are used to work on the bolts on your bike.
Convertor Socket: A socket that for example allows you to fit 1/2" sized sockets to a 1/4" drive tool, allowing the use of a wider range of tools
+ Tool roll and multiple bits included
+ Left and right-hand threaded calibration
- It would be nice to have some longer hex bits
The Pedros Demi torque wrench takes our best overall spot. It's a solid, compact torque wrench that will cover most of the regular jobs required on a modern bike. The soft tool roll is easy to access and the included range of bits means you can do a lot straight away.
+ Comes with a case and bits
- Certificate of calibration included
- Lacks the premium finish of more expensive units
The M Part torque wrench is a great, affordable option that comes in a neat case, with seven bits included. Like the other torque wrenches in the guide, it has a certificate of calibration.
+ 10-60 nm range covers most bases
+ Calibrated to ISO 6789 standard
- No sockets or bits included
The BBB High Torque BTL-175 is the largest and heaviest torque wrench in the test and comes in a foam-lined zippered case. It's a hefty 1/2" drive unit which covers a torque range of 10-60nm. It's perfect for chainset bolts, cassette lock rings or any higher torque application.
+ Lots of bits included
+ Wide torque range
- A bit big for certain jobs
The Topeak D-Torq DX is an electronic torque wrench that comes in a neat case with a large range of included bits. It covers a 4-80Nm scale meaning it can tackle pretty much every job on a bike
+ Looks fantastic
+ Bits and tool roll are very nice
- Higher price point
The Giustaforza 1-15 Pro Evo is the top-line torque wrench from Effetto Mariposa and received an update this year. It covers a 1-15Nm torque range. The Evo is the model for you if you want to treat yourself or someone else.
+ Neat and compact
+ Easily fits into a jersey pocket
- Torque click can be hard to feel
The Nano Torqbar DX consists of three pre-set torque adaptors and five bits that can be loaded into the tool body and handle. This means you can load the bits you need and carry a tiny pre-set torque wrench on your rides.
This guide was last updated in August 2024. We changed this buying guide to our comprehensive buyer's guide layout to include more information and pictures. We removed a few torque wrenches we felt didn't offer much over other strong models. Included a new model that had superceded a discontinued model and included a new competitively priced best budget option. We also included information on what the most common bolt sizes are in the how to choose section to help you narrow down the search for what you need.
Written by
Written by
Tom Wieckowski
I've been into working on my own bikes most of my life. I'm a qualified bike mechanic and before I joined Cyclingnews I ran a servicing and repair workshop for five years. As a tool nerd, I enjoy researching, testing and writing about tools for bikes generally. I've tested every tool here on dozens of bikes and carried out all of the major servicing jobs requiring a torque wrench on each one. I am confident that any one of these options will help improve your maintenance work, look after your bikes and keep you safe.
The Best bike torque wrenches you can buy today
Best overall
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The Pedros Demi torque wrench has a rubber bit holder attached which is handy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The wide range of included bits you won't need to buy extra tools straight away(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
1. Pedros Demi torque wrench II
Best torque wrench overall
Specifications
Torque range : 3-15Nm
Drive size : 1/4"
Bits included : 8 bits included
Calibration : +/- 4%
Reasons to buy
+
Useful soft tool roll and selection of bits included
+
Will torque left or right-hand threaded fasteners
+
Included bits will cater for most jobs on the bike
Reasons to avoid
-
Microscale on adjuster could be more accurate
The Pedros Demi Torque wrench gets our best overall spot and brings a lot to the table if you're shopping for a torque wrench.
The wrench itself is a compact and lightweight unit that covers a torque range of 3-15Nm. This is similar to several wrenches in the guide and will have you covered for a lot of common maintenance tasks on the bike. You'll be able to torque all of your handler and stem bolts, most component bolts like derailleurs and brakes, not to mention a range of accessories and computer mounts.
The wrench comes with 15 included bits, including 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, (25mm), 4 & 5mm (50mm) hex bits and T10, T15, T20, T25, & T30 (25mm), T25 (50mm) Torx bits.
A standout feature of the Demi Torque wrench for me is the included crow's foot 7/8mm adaptor, essential if you're torquing off hydraulic brake hose nuts on shifters or brake levers, a common job on road bikes due to internal cables, particularly for shop mechanics these days.
This torque wrench will comfortably have you covered for torquing things like handlebar controls and saddle and seatpost bolts, but the included bits mean you can do a lot more with it too if you need to.
Best budget option
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The M Part torque wrench is a great budget buy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The M Part comes with seven bits in the case which will allow you to tackle most jobs (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
There's also a calibration certificate (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
2. M Part torque wrench
Best budget torque wrench
Specifications
Torque range : 3-15Nm
Drive size : 1/4"
Bits included : 7 bits included
Calibration : ISO 6789
Reasons to buy
+
Hard case and seven bits included
+
Competitive price
+
Nice, loud click off
Reasons to avoid
-
Not as premium feeling as some other units
The M Part torque wrench is our best budget offering and is a great buy for the money.
The wrench itself comes in a hard plastic case and includes six hex bits. These are 3,4,5,6,8,10mm hex bits and there's also one T25 torx bit. This is a nice spread of sizes and like the Pedro's unit above will mean you can do a lot on the bike.
The unit comes with a calibration certificate in the box and it's calibrated to the ISO 6789 standard, the same as several other wrenches in the guide. It has a loud and satisfying 'click off' when you reach the desired torque and the micro-scale on the adjuster dial means you can work accurately.
If you want to invest in a torque wrench to use on your bikes but don't want to spend too much, I recommend going for the M Part, it brings a lot to the table for the price.
Best for heavy use
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The 1/2" drive BBB unit is tough and sturdy (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The soft case is easy to work out of(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Certificate included (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
3. BBB BTL-175
Best for heavy use
Specifications
Torque range : 10-60Nm
Drive size: 1/2"
Bits included : No, case only
Calibration : Yes - ISO 6789
Reasons to buy
+
Solid and dependable
+
Clear 'click off'
+
Nice foam lined case included
Reasons to avoid
-
1/2" drive size may mean you need a converter socket for some tools
The BBB BTL-175 is the best option if you're looking for a bigger torque wrench to torque things like cassette lockrings and chainset bolts, which often have higher torque ratings.
The unit covers a 10-60Nm range and uses a larger 1/2" drive, it's a solid feeling and is my go-to wrench to use at home for the aforementioned jobs like crankset bolts with higher torque ratings. It would also be great for shop mechanics for everyday use.
The adjuster dial on the end is easy to adjust, and I can adjust from the zero setting of 10Nm up to 40Nm for a cassette lock ring in just a few seconds.
The zippered foam-lined case is nice to work out of, and there's a velcro pouch inside which contains the calibration certificate but you could also keep useful spares or small tools in here.
Not all of my tools and sockets are 1/2" so I purchased a convertor socket so I can use all of my tools with the wrench. You may want to do the same if you're in the market.
Best digital option
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The D-Torq DX looks cool in it's carry case and carbon effect surround (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The digital adjustment means less work when setting torque value, it's all done by pushing a button(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The D-Torq DW includes hex and torx bits as well as a range of sockets (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
4. Topeak D-Torq DX
The best electronic torque wrench
Specifications
Torque range : 4-80Nm
Drive size : 3/8" / 1/2" adaptor included
Bits included : Twenty bits included
Calibration : +/-3% for 5000 cycles
Reasons to buy
+
Included 1/2" drive adapter opens up more tool options
+
Calibrated by the ITRI Centre (same as Unior)
+
Zip-up case includes batteries and a big range of sockets and bits
Reasons to avoid
-
Could be cumbersome when working in tight spots
-
Batteries running out could cause an issue
The Topeak D-Torq DX is an electronic, 3/8" drive torque wrench that covers a huge torque range of 4-80 Nm, meaning this torque wrench has the ability to cover everything on a bike.
If you like the idea of an electronic torque wrench and also like the idea of using one wrench for everything the D-Torque DX will allow you to hit the ground running.
It comes in a smart carry case with one of the largest ranges of included bits and sockets including a 1/2" inch drive converter socket, something I mention needing when using the BBB option. I also really like the carbon effect surround in the case, it just looks techy and cool.
Another point that highlight itself to me whenever I use the wrench is the ease with which you can set your desired torque with the soft rubber buttons compared to manually adjusting a mechanical wrench. If you suffer from any arthritis or similar issues and want to keep repetitive movements to a minimum this makes things really useful and saves some effort. I know I tried to minimise repetitive movements when spannering all day every day. The wrench then beeps not clicks when you reach your desired torque rating.
Though the wrench covers a huge range of torque it is a little longer than some of the more compact wrenches in the guide and may make working in tighter spots a little awkward, just something to think about, although you could always invest in a smaller or pre-set unit at a later date.
Best premium option
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The Giustaforza 1-15 Pro Evo gets an oil slick finish (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Here's the other side (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The wrench is available with or without bits, but makes for a lovely set in this tool roll (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Which is also nice and compact and easy to travel with (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
5. Effetto Mariposa Giustaforza 1-15 Pro Evo
A premium, high end option
Specifications
Torque range : 1-15Nm
Drive size : 1/4"
Bits included : Available with or without bits
Calibration : Yes - ISO 6789 & ASME B 107.300-2010
Reasons to buy
+
Stylish and premium feeling in hand
+
Long bits very useful for certain jobs
+
Improved microscale boosts accuracy
Reasons to avoid
-
Premium pricing
-
Bits and Wrench is a little tough to get out of the tool roll
-
The finish may get chipped or scratched in a shop environment
If you want to treat yourself or are perhaps buying the cyclist in your life a special present, you might want to look at the Effetto Mariposa Giustaforza 1-15 Pro Evo.
Effetto Mariposa overhauled its torque wrench lineup this year and the 1-15 Pro Evo supersedes the Giustaforza 2-16 Pro model that was previously featured in our guide.
The new 1-15 Pro Evo gets an oil-slick finish which is rather flashy, though admittedly it doesn't bring any extra functionality to the table. It does make for a more special feeling though. The Pro Evo gets a 1-15Nm torque range, which has changed slightly from the old units 2-16 and also features a clockwise and counter-clockwise tightening calibration, useful for suspension hardware and the like.
Also new is the new micro-scale on the torque adjusting dial which also locks into place, I've found this very useful on parts that have a specific torque reading like 6.2Nm for example.
The wrench is available on its own or with a nice tool roll and bits as pictures for some extra cash. There is also a standard 'Pro' model available for less cash which is all red, and just loses out on the dual direction torque tightening feature the Evo gets. There are less expensive wrenches in this guide which offer similar performance points but if you're looking for a special feeling tool to use at home or work, the Guistaforza remains a nice, high-end option.
Best for workshops
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The Wera A5 feels solid in hand (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
It will cover a wide range of jobs on the bike (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
1/$" square drive head for your sockets and bits(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
6. Wera Click Torque A5
An slightly larger, workshop quality wrench
Specifications
Torque range : 2.5-25Nm
Drive size : 1/4"
Bits included : No
Calibration : ISO 6789-1: 2017-07
Reasons to buy
+
Comfortable handle and nice weight
+
Calibrated to the newest, most stringent ISO standard
+
Nice ergonomic handle
Reasons to avoid
-
At 30cm may be too long for some spaces on the bike
-
No bits included
The Wera Click Torque A5 is a 1/4" drive click-style torque wrench with an operating range of 2.5-25nm. This means it's suitable for everything on the bike, except cassette and disc lockrings and larger crankset bolts. It's 30 cm long making it mid-sized against the wrenches in this guide. It's definitely a tool for home use rather than travelling or riding with.
It's a larger unit and will be highly accurate and reliable, making it ideal for shop environments. The A5 conforms with the ISO678-1:2017 calibration standard and comes with a certificate of conformance. I learnt during my metrology lab visit that the 2017 standard is very stringent and checks the torque wrench across a great many test points.
It uses a 1/4" square drive fitting and doesn't come with bits. So you may need to invest in some 1/4" drive bits and adaptors as needed.
I liked the ergonomic, comfy handle, and if you were using this wrench several times a day I think it would start to come into its own. The click when torque is reached is also loud and easily audible. Once the bottom adjuster dial is pulled open the whole lower body of the torque wrench rotates with a really nice light action allowing you to set the desired torque spec quickly and easily.
This isn't specifically a shop-level tool though, it would make a great addition to any workshop or garage setup. Wera also offers a calibration service in the UK that you can send that wrench back to if needed.
Small and lightweight
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The Feedback Range click is the smallest wrench in the guide (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
The case is neat, soft and compact(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Handy for home workshop use or for using at events or on the road (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
7. Feedback Range Click Torque Wrench
A compact unit that feels great in hand
Specifications
Torque range : 2-13Nm
Drive size : Hex bits
Bits included : Yes - 13
Calibration : +/- 4% for 4,000 cycles
Reasons to buy
+
The compact size feels great in hand
+
Nice case and 13 bits included
Reasons to avoid
-
Exposed spring could get dirty in shop environments
The Range Click Torque Wrench from Feedback Sports is an updated offering from the American brand. I really like this neat, compact torque wrench and it comes in a smart travel case with 13 of the usual hex and torx bits.
The Range Click has a 2-14 Nm range which increases in 1Nm increments. Feedback is fairly specific about how you hold the wrench to torque things off so it's worth reading the brand's guidelines for best practice. When torquing something off you will need to hold the silver end section of the wrench so use your other hand to hold the head and stabilise the tool. It's easy to do in use.
The wrench promises + / - 4% accuracy over 4000 cycles and Feedback offers a calibration service of its own. This is a pleasant torque wrench to use and if you like the size and look of the Effetto Mariposa option above, this will provide a similar experience for a lot less cash.
The case is a little on the large side to carry on rides, and it's probably overkill. But the size of the unit overall makes it ideal for taking to events of all kinds, it's compact and neat and won't take up a lot of space. I like its in-hand feel and for the price, it's a really attractive option.
Best torque multi tool
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The Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX + could be used at home, when travelling or to carry on a ride (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
This is the ratchet with the torque adaptor and bit fitted (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
I like how you are able to fit a hex bit in the end of the ratchet too, which helps on some jobs (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
8. Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX +
The best multi tool that can tackle torque too
Specifications
Torque range : 2/3/4/5/6Nm
Drive size : Hex bits
Bits included : Yes - 11 included
Calibration : 2 -6 Nm (Tolerance: +/- 6%)
Reasons to buy
+
You can do an awful lot with the included tools
+
A neat and stylish design
Reasons to avoid
-
No audible 'click' from torque unit
The Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX + (phew!) is made up of a useful and well-thought-out range of tools kept in a neat velcro case. Included is a neat ratchet, chain splitter tool, 11 hardened steel hex and torx bits and a pre-set torque attachment that covers a 2-6Nm range. Ideal for working at home, or for travelling with, the case is also small enough that I can carry it in a cycling jersey pocket if required. It's the sort of tool that would be perfect to take on a trip if you need to work on your bike upon arrival.
You could pretty much build a bike with this kit, the 1/4" ratchet is extendable and has a reversible head and nifty thumb wheel. I like you can add a hex bit to the other end of the ratchet too, I recently found this useful when installing disc rotor bolts.
The torque attachment is useful and covers a 2-6Nm range, so this will be ideal for setting seatpost heights or adjusting handlebars. It doesn't click when torque is reached, you need to visually align the dashes on the unit so this is worth bearing it mind. There is a 2-year warranty and pre-set torque accuracy is + / - 6%. This is an ideal tool to carry or have at home to make roadside adjustments and torque bolts off, it probably won't be quite as accurate as a full-blown torque wrench but if you need a smaller all-rounder, this is a great option.
Best to carry on rides
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You can load the Nano Torqbar with your desired bits and leave the case at home on rides (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
You can pre load two bits into the tool to take with you (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
This is what the tool looks like when setup to use and torque with (Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
This what you would carry on a ride, two bits pre loaded inside and torque insert neatly slotted into the end(Image credit: Tom Wieckowski )
Calibration : +/-6% tolerance is guaranteed for 5000 cycles
Reasons to buy
+
The Torq bar is lightweight and slim in a jersey pocket
+
Clever hex-bit internal storage
Reasons to avoid
-
The click is a little faint to hear and feel
The Topeak Nano Torqbar DX is another great portable option and my go-to for carrying on the bike, especially for road rides thanks to its small portable size and clever inbuilt tool storage.
It comes with three pre-set torque limiters of 4, 5 and 6 Nm and a selection of bits in a neat plastic case. You then add your desired limiter and hex bit to the tool body.
What I like is the fact you can just carry the most relevant torque limiter for your bike and two hex bits inside the handle, making for a really compact setup for your saddle bag or jersey pocket if you want the ability to torque things like seatposts or bars out on the road.
The torque click is easy to miss though, so you will need to get a feel for this starting off to ensure you don't miss it.
How to choose
It's worth spending as much as you can afford on a torque wrench from a manufacturer that provides calibration documents or lists the calibration standard adhered to. This means you should end up with an accurate tool.
Aside from that, work out the max torque rating to be found on your bike(s) and work backwards from this. You may need one or two torque wrenches to tackle everything, and pay attention to whether you have any hard-to-reach or awkwardly placed bolts that may be hard to access; this may dictate the torque wrench size you go for.
Also worth considering is drive size, if you have a socket set of 3/8" hex bits already, investing in a 3/8" drive torque wrench means you can do a lot more with your hex bits and sockets and use them with your new wrench for example, although you can of course buy convertor sockets or the appropriately sized tools to get around this.
It's also worth mentioning a bike shop will be able to torque everything on your bike to spec for you if you don't think you need a wrench at home. If you aren't sure, be confident to go in and ask for a torque check on your bike/s.
What is torque?
Torque is the twisting force applied to an item. In the case of bike torque wrenches, that's the bolts and components that hold your bike together, but you'll also find torque numbers (much larger ones) mentioned in relation to the turning force delivered by the best e-bike motors.
Torque on bikes is almost universally measured in Newton meters, abbreviated Nm, although there are other units like in/lb, ft/lb or kg/cm. Make sure that your torque wrench works in Nm to avoid having to convert values each time you use your tool.
Nearly every bolt or fastener on a bike will carry a torque rating specified by the manufacturer. Torque is the measurement of rotational force that is applied to an object. When we tighten down a bolt we stretch the threads creating friction, which prevents the bolt from coming undone. Too loose and the bolt or screw may work free, but too tight and we may end up causing damage.
Is one torque wrench enough?
In order to be able to torque every component to spec on your bike you're probably going to need two torque wrenches. Though this isn't a hard and fast rule.
The torque range of components across a bike normally ranges from 3 Newton metres and tops out at around 40-70nm depending on the component in question. Most wrenches won't cover this range so most people or shops end up with a smaller torque wrench for, you guessed it, the smaller stuff and a larger torque wrench to cater for things like cassette lock rings and crank arm bolts. A smaller torque wrench will also allow you to easily access smaller bolts that are potentially hard to reach such as brake calliper bolts and awkwardly placed seatpost clamp bolts.
Is a preset torque key good enough?
For smaller jobs on your bike, you may be fine with a preset torque key rather than needing an adjustable torque wrench. Many small bike bolts specify a torque spec of around 5Nm, so a torque key preset to this value will really help you out. Some torque keys come with multiple fixed-value torque heads, so you'll be covered for other values too.
A torque key for bikes will usually be designed to be highly portable too, so it's easy to stash in one of the best bike saddle bags.
It's worth noting that not all pre-set torque wrenches can be recalibrated and do have a shelf or cycle life. So if you have been using the same unit for years it's probably good practice to replace it with a fresh one. Otherwise, you may be unknowingly over or under-tightening bolts.
Where's the best place to buy a torque wrench?
Don’t be afraid to look beyond cycling brands. Torque is certainly not specific to the bike industry, there is a whole range of torque wrenches on the market, what you should look for is a quality wrench that has been calibrated to the relevant ISO standard so you know it is accurate.
For bikes that means torque ranges that make sense for the bolts on a bike and it means scales rated in Newton metres. Purchasing something designed for another industry might be cheaper but could require constant conversions. Torque is torque though; as long as you find something that works it doesn't matter too much what it's marketed for.
How do you use a torque wrench?
Just because you are tightening a bolt with a torque wrench doesn't automatically mean you are getting the correct torque. One of the biggest mistakes is holding the wrench incorrectly. Each wrench has a design that requires a specific placement of force against it. Park Tool has an excellent video covering the details.
Once you know the torque rating of the bolt you want to tighten, set the torque wrench dial or gauge to the relevant rating and begin tightening the bolt. Ensure the hex bit attachment is sitting straight fully engaged with the fastener you are tightening. Once your desired torque is reached the wrench will audibly 'click', or if electronic, 'beep' letting you know the desired torque has been reached. You will also be able to feel a physical click in the wrench itself when the desired torque spec is reached. Resist the urge to redo the bolt, you only need to torque it to spec once.
What are the most common types of bolts found on bikes?
The bolts or fasteners most commonly found on most modern bikes are Hex and Torx bolts. Hex bolts, also commonly referred to as allen key bolts have a six-sided head. Torx bolts have a six-sided star-shaped head and are visibly different to Hex bolts. In case you weren't sure, most of the regular bolts on your bike will be Hex bolts.
Bicycles don't require big nuts and bolts. The most common size hex bolts found on bikes are 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm and 10mm. If you're looking for a torque wrench with included bits check what your bike uses and buy the one with the most relevant bits for you. To be honest, most generic torque bit sets will cover a lot of common jobs on a modern bike.
The Torx bolts most commonly used on bikes are T15, T20, T25 and T30. Common uses for these sixes are disc brake rotor bolts which are often T25, and Shimano chainring bolts which are T30. Again, if you are shopping for a torque wrench with bits check what Torx bits come with it.
What type of torque wrench is best?
Some torque wrenches are electronic and some are mechanical. There's nothing that makes one inherently more accurate than the other but there are reasons you might choose one or the other. The main argument for mechanical is that they don't need batteries. You never run the risk of reaching for your wrench and finding it dead. Also, torque wrenches can last a very long time and LCD displays don't have the same staying power as a precision metal tool.
Electronic wrenches offer more flexibility and information. If you have a need to measure different units an electronic torque wrench lets you easily switch between them.
More useful to most people though is seeing the torque as you approach your setting. It can feel comforting to know if you are getting close and loud alarms with blinking lights make it obvious when you've reached your target. It's also nice to be able to precisely set an exact number and have it easy to read. The downside is that the dead zone and click of an analogue wrench when it reaches the set value is easier to feel and electronic wrenches don’t have that.
Electronic or analog torque wrench?
Fundamentally the way that analogue wrenches and electronic wrenches work is different. Analog wrenches use a spring and when you get to the correct torque there's a release of pressure along with a click and some amount of dead zone. Digital torque gauges work the way that a power meter does, with strain gauges. What that means in practical use is that there's no release of pressure and dead zone in electronic wrenches. But their batteries can run flat, which may catch you out from time to time.
Electronic torque wrenches also have a slightly different feel to mechanical units that can take some getting used to and it can be slightly harder to feel the torque or 'tightness' of a fastener as you tighten it with an electronic wrench. In our experience, this can make you doubt yourself sometimes, and I personally prefer the feel of an analogue torque wrench. If something feels off, don't just blindly proceed, stop and check your work.
Do torque wrenches need maintenance?
Torque wrenches are precision tools for measuring torque, not general-purpose wrenches or ratchets. If you use your torque wrench to undo bolts, you risk pushing it out of calibration and or damaging it. Always use another allen key or regular wrench for loosening bolts and only use your torque wrench for tightening to spec.
For the same reason, you also want to be sure to zero the wrench when you finish using it. Leaving the wrench spring in tension during storage will affect calibration over time. It only takes a moment to set the wrench to the lowest setting before storing it and it will make sure you get the most precision out of an expensive tool.
Most manufacturers recommend a calibration check yearly. This is not particularly expensive to get done and will ensure your wench is still operating in the correct range of torque. However, I used my own torque wrench day in and day out for a few years, dropped it and left it wound on more than once, and it passed a metrology lab calibration check and was still in spec, so don't fret if you don't calibrate your wrenches for years. It's best practice, not the law.
Try to avoid dropping your torque wrench and always store it in its case or bag. Temperature extremes can also affect the accuracy and a few practice 'clicks' before you begin working will provide more accurate results as the spring in your click-style torque wrench warms up.
Do I have to use a torque wrench?
You don't have to use a torque wrench on your bike but it is advisable and best practice to do so.
Using a torque wrench is the difference between hoping something is right and knowing it is, this is especially important if you are working on bikes for other riders or customers.
Using your own feel when tightening bolts will get you pretty close (if said feel is decent), but ultimately it's just a guess.
A torque wrench eliminates any doubt and confirms your components won't be damaged or vibrate loose on your bike. In the event of a warranty issue, you'll be in a better position.
How do I find the torque rating of a part?
Components like handlebar stems, seat post clamps and crank bolts often will have torque ratings listed on them somewhere by the manufacturer. But often things like derailleur bolts and brake pinch bolts will all have torque ratings but you may have to look them up.
Manufacturers' websites will have torque specs listed, but Park Tool also has a very useful table of torque specs here for you to reference.
Should I grease the threads of bolts before I torque them?
An assembly compound such as grease or anti-size seize etc is often recommended by manufacturers when assembling components and tightening bolts.
Friction between dry threads can lead to inaccurate torque readings. It's best to adhere to the manufacturer's specs if you are unsure, but grease and/or anti-seize is a good idea on nearly every threaded fastener. if you aren't sure, pick up the phone and ask the manufacturer or retailer for best practices.
How we test
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How do we test torque wrenches?
Research:
Testing for this guide starts with researching and reading about as many of the relevant torque wrenches on the market as I can find. After receiving a test unit I then went back to the manufacturers or distributors with any additional questions I had.
Initial inspection:
I inspected all of the torque wrenches on arrival for any defects or quality issues and photographed them. I also take into account packaging, for example, if there is a lot of non-recyclable plastic or unnecessary packaging.
Workshop testing:
I then use and test all of the torque wrenches we review on a range of different bikes, components, and service jobs to see how they operate. The larger wrenches were used in my home workshop and the smaller compact ones I travelled with or carried with me on rides.
Repeatability and consistency:
I repeatedly performed lots of jobs that you would expect a torque wrench to be used for by a bike mechanic or home user. From torquing stem and seat clamp bolts to spec to torquing chainset spider lockrings and larger crank bolts. It's important to repeatedly work with and use them tools, a single test may not be a true indicator of performance.
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Tom joined the Cyclingnews team in late 2022 as a tech writer. Despite having a degree in English Literature he has spent his entire working life in the cycling industry in one form or another. He has over 10 years of experience as a qualified mechanic, with the last five years before joining Cyclingnews being spent running an independent workshop. This means he is just as happy tinkering away in the garage as he is out on the road bike, and he isn’t afraid to pull a bike apart or get hands-on with it when testing to really see what it’s made of.
He has ridden and raced bikes from an early age up to a national level on the road and track, and has ridden and competed in most disciplines. He has a keen eye for pro-team tech and enjoys spotting new or interesting components in the wild. During his time at Cyclingnews, Tom has already interviewed some of the sport's biggest names including Mathieu van der Poel, Tadej Pogačar and Alberto Contador. He's also covered various launches from brands such as Pinarello, Ridley, Specialized and more, tackled the Roubaix Challenge sportive aboard his own rim-brake Cannondale SuperSix Evo, tested over 20 aero helmets in the wind tunnel, and has created helpful in-depth buying advice relating to countless categories from torque wrenches to winter clothing.
