[First Look] Granite Design Tools

After previewing some tools at an event in Bali, Indonesia, Granite Design was kind enough to send out their latest tools for testing. Right out of the box, we were impressed with Granite’s ingenuity, as each product seems to carry a specific and well thought out function. Stay tuned for a full review, but in the meantime, here’s a run-through on the latest tools from Granite Design.

Perhaps the most intriguing product is the ‘Stash’ Multi-Tool. A steerer tube storage solution, that doesn’t require tapping threads into your fork (thus preserving its warranty). The Stash tool is lightweight, and has a slim, compact design.

Specs:

8-piece Multi-tool: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, T25, Flathead
Spoke key: 0, 1, 2, 3 with valve core removing function
System weight (incl. multi-tool): 135gMulti-Tool weight: 57g Colors: Black or Orange
Compatible with tapered and 1-1/8″ straight steer tube.
Fits bikes with a bottom of fork crown to top of stem length of 150mm to 240mm.

The multi-tool itself seems easy to use, and each tool bit moves with some friction, so as not to have another bit move into your way whilst tightening a bolt.

For the additional tools you may need out on the trail, Granite Design formulated two options that stow away within the handlebar. One being a chain tool, with a spot to store your spare link, and also a tire plug kit, with room for extra plugs.

Stash Chain-Tool Specs

Dimension: 30 x 30 x 96mm (large cap) / 21.8 x 21.8 x 96mm (small cap)
Fitting: Open-end grip or lock-on grip with 18 to 21mm orifice and 10cm straight section at the bar end
Weight: 50g (incl. side cap)
Color: Orange
Chain Quick-link is not included.

Stash Tire Plug Specs

Dimension: 30 x 30 x 96mm (large cap) / 21.8 x 21.8 x 96mm (small cap)
Weight: 35g (incl. side cap)
Fitting: Open-end grip or lock-on grip with 18 to 21mm orifice and 10cm straight section at the bar end
Color: Orange

Both tools function using an expanding rubber gasket, allowing the tool to be tightened into place within the bar. Each tool comes with the necessary end caps to work with both a dual clamp grip, or single clamp grip.

Shown above is what the tool looks like using a dual clamp grip. Simply loosen the allen-screw and the tool slides out.

The only downside to using a single lock grip, is that to access the tool, unless you cut off the grip’s current end cap, one needs to also remove their entire grip before the tool can be accessed.

Having received a 2018 Design & Innovation Award, the Granite Hex Stand, is a small portable bike stand solution.

Specs

Weight: 720g (1.6 lb)
Max.Load: 20kg
Dimensions: Open – 415(H) x 480(W) x 380(L) mm / Close – 415(H) x 110(W) x 85(L) mm
Color: Black, Sliver, Red, Blue, Green, Orange
Package includes Hex stand, carry bag and adapter for Shimano cranksets.

The stand has an adjustable height via one allen key, and both the legs, and the peg for the axle quickly fold out of the way for storage.

An extremely lightweight design, combined with compatibility for nearly any bike with a hollow crankset, makes the Hex stand a great option to keep in the car for trailside, or race weekend repairs.