I had been considering using a wax system for some time, but always hesitated thinking it was 'too complicated.' Was I wrong! Waxing has become a standard on my deep-cleaning days and the Silca system makes it easy. Prepping the wax, treating the chain and finishing is about a 40 minute cycle - just enough time for all the other cleaning and bike maintenance. Best of all, no more greasy/gritty chain - a simple wipe after each ride is all that's needed. Smoother and quieter operation too!
For cycling repairs you canb either torque things or go with your gut - the problem is that going with your gut can end with cracked carbon or something that is too loose. The kit includes a bunch of bits, and a T handle ratchet that can be assembled in many ways. The torque tube is used to tighten things to a specific torque, and there is an alternate tube that is used for loosening. When you loosen you do not want to use the torque tube - if you go past its limits, you will ruin the torque tube. The package is compact so you can carry it, and there are plenty of bits to get the job done
I'm using Reserve Fillmore valves so I wasn't able to inject this stuff but I still used a sealant injector to get it into the tire without making a mess and it did not clog. I've already had a small puncture that sealed but it did take a while, it was close to the sidewall and I probably didn't have enough sealant in the tire to be honest. I didn't look at the recommended amount for the size tires I'm using so I should have added 15-20ml more. Assuming this stuff lasts at least a few months and the fiber foam stays suspended in the sealant rather than gathering along the tire bead making it less effective then I will buy it again. It is expensive but so far so good and it is a vast improvement over the original stuff as far as usability goes.
I wrench my own stuff, and over time I've learned to appreciate good quality tools. The number of cheaply made things I've had round over a bolt head, or just fail me in general at the worst possible time, has forced me to learn my lesson.
I know the fun little multi tool is convenient and cheap and you have one all over the house and garage, but they aren't so great on your bolts. Getting a good quality shop tool will make your bike work much nicer for you (and your bike).
I caught a sale on this set, and it lessened the blow so to speak. Of course it's expensive, it's Silca, but in all honesty their stuff works and keeps on working, and they are always available to help you if you need help, or a replacement part, or whatever you come up with.
It took me 2 weeks to move the set out to my garage when it came in, I liked it in the house so I could flip the lid open and closed just to feel the magnet release and close back up. I'm a tool nerd, and I'm happy with my addiction.
Pick one up and stop using the cheap set you have sitting around, save your stem bolts!
