Tightening spokes is a seemingly simple task but if done wrong it can lead to all sorts of problems. In the past we all tightened spokes “by ear” tapping them with a screwdriver and tightening or loosening until they all sounded alike. It was a job better suited to a piano tuner. Fasst have eliminated all the guess work with their FASST Spoke Torque Wrench.
We Like
If you only have one bike then you can order a standard FASST Spoke Torque Wrench which comes pre-set at 48 inch/pounds or you can have it pre-set to whatever your bike requires. For bikes with different sized nipples front and rear two interchangeable heads are included, just make sure you order the one specific to your make and model.
For those with more than one bike Fasst can supply an adjustable Spoke Tension Wrench that comes with 12 interchangeable heads in sizes 4mm, 5mm, 5.6mm, 6mm, 6.2mm, 6.3mm, 6.4mm, 6.5mm, 6.7mm, 6.8mm, 7.4mm and a splined head. The whole lot is in a sturdy plastic case with a foam insert to hold all the pieces, is made in the USA and comes with a Lifetime Warranty.
We Don’t Like
All the heads are clearly marked with the sizes but the actual setting markings on the tool itself are a little hard to read under some light conditions. The lines to set the torque are by necessity very fine, to aid accuracy but the bright chrome finish makes then difficult to read at a glance. A little contrast would be helpful.
Verdict
The bikes in the “Wazshed” are about to get something they’ve never had before, some proper spoke loving. It will be interesting to see just how accurate or inaccurate my “tune by ear” efforts in the past have been. I’ll let you all know soon.
RRP $229.95
Fasst Company Australia
Telephone: 0497 335 399
For the full feature, check out issue #530 of ADB
Warren Jack
