Chainlink Product Review: Full Windsor "The Breaker" Cycle Multi Tool

By Eric Alexander

U.K.-based Full Windsor's "The Breaker" Cycle Multi Tool was sent to The Chainlink for review and I was chosen to run it through its paces.

Reviewing a tool like this is a both a good and bad thing. On one hand, I was hoping to get some use out of it before doing this write up. On the other hand, that would mean some trail-side fixes and flat tires, and that I was not looking for.

Overview:
The Breaker offers a full array of necessary tools for common roadside repairs:

• Chain breaker
• Nylon tire lever with a stainless steel core
• Spoke key 
• 3,4,5,6,8mm hex tool bits 
• Philips head screw driver (PH2) 
• T25 torx bit 
• Tool bit extender 
• Bottle opener

Everything comes in a nice brown or black leather pouch with twin straps, as well as a metal snap. The snap holds the tool and driver bits together. The straps, meanwhile, are cleverly-designed to accomplish a variety of functions.

• They can hold a road tube, a mini pump, and still fit in your jersey pocket. 
• You can strap in a MTB tube and Co2 cartridge
• You can also use the straps to mount the multi tool to your frame or seat rails if you want the weight off your back.

How it Works:
I started using this as soon as it was given to me as a replacement to my standard multi tool. I was excited about all the mounting options, but skeptical on the size and weight. The first couple of rides were on my normal training routes and decided to mount it to the frame and keep the tube in my jersey pocket not needing a pump as I run a frame pump on my rando bike. Later rides on the mountain bike, I strapped my tube up with the leather straps and stuck it in my jersey pocket. With the tool and tube, it still felt fine in my pocket, not too bulky and a bonus it’s all-in-one and easy to access.

I've have had to use the tool a few times on recent trips. The tire lever is great - stiff and plastic coated so it won't damage the wheel even if it's carbon. The wrench portion of the tool is also handy as it has everything you need in one spot. The way the tips attach to the handle give you tons of leverage. You can even torque a single speed dropout if needed.

I did run into a couple of minor problems while testing the tool. I have a Niner Sir9 single speed mountain bike with an eccentric bottom bracket. With The Breaker's tip in the extension, it would not fit past the crank arm to reach the Allen screw.

Also, The Breaker is constructed from a solid piece of metal with squared-off edges. Careless operation, or an accidental drop can result in a serious ding on your frame. Outside of that, it's very well designed and easy to use.

Conclusion:
I really like the The Breaker tool, thanks to its burly design, good leverage, and convenient storage of all the attachments. The options of mounting it to the bike or in your pocket is also a plus if you're like me and don't want to rub holes in your 200 dollar bibs with a bulky seat bag.

With an MSRP of $65, it's a little more expensive that other multi tools on the market. But with leverage and feel similar to a shop tool, the additional price is justified. I would recommend it to anyone for touring, commuting, or hitting the local trails. Keep in mind, however, if you have any tight places to reach or screw heads that are recessed more then a quarter of an inch, it may not work.

Visit http://fullwindsor.cc/products/the-breaker-cycle-multi-tool to learn more.

For purchase in the US, we recommend our friends at DZR Shoes. Visit https://dzrshoes.com/collections/accessories for pricing and availability.