Given that cycling multitools are only ever used when the rider is with their bike, several companies have developed tools that are permanently stored onboard the bicycle. The new SWAT Conceal Carry Tool, from Specialized, goes inside a mountain bike’s suspension fork steerer tube.
When riders just need to tighten something, the SWAT CC’s top cap can be swivelled to one side, allowing a spring-loaded removable multitool to pop up from within. That multitool features folding hardened-steel bits including 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8mm Allen keys, and a T25 Torx.
Should the bike have a broken chain, however, the SWAT CC’s main body gets pulled up out of the steerer tube. It has a built-in chain tool, along with a magnetic mount for a user-supplied quick link on the bottom.
The entire setup weighs approximately 120 grams, is made from forged alloy (except for the steel bits), and is only compatible with alloy steerer tubes. It’s available via the “source” link below, priced at US$85.
This isn’t the first steerer-tube-hidden cycling tool we’ve seen. Last year, Rugged Components was unsuccessful at Kickstarting its Dialed Cap, plus OneUp sells a tool known as the EDC. And if sticking a tool in the steerer just isn’t your thing, there are also ones that go in the crank hollow and handlebars.
Specialized bike tool hides in steerer tube [New Atlas]