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SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING
LATEST UPDATE: MARCH 7th
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Oxford Torque Slimline 12 CO2 Multitool
124g £29.99
The Oxford Torque Slimline 12 CO2 Multitool is very much what it says. Function, design, and weight shout stripped down (bicycle, that is, although why not the cyclist if that is you thing), solo, day-riding – probably quickly. However, it does have a nod or two to tradition. As with all multitools, it needs to match the needs of your bike and your riding.
Pros: nicely made, CO2 adaptor, light.
Cons: only one Torx key.
Specification
As a preface to any remarks on multitools, it needs to be emphasised that it needs to match your needs; what are the fasteners on your bike and what sort of cycling do you use it for.
The Oxford Torque Slimline 12 is a well-made, neatly designed multitool that should slide neatly into the rear pocket of jacket or jersey without causing unsightly sagginess to the rear.
The twelve functions comprise; the eponymous CO2 adaptor, a valve core remover (actually two, as they are reversible), Phillips 2 and Flat head 5 screw drivers, a T25 Torx bit, and 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm Allen keys (Hex head). This is a pretty contemporary set-up, although the two screwdrivers are a nod to tradition. In some way I was quite surprised that their space was not occupied by a second or, even, third Torx bit. However, there may well be design issues around that. And, of course, there are always calliper and v-brake adjusters that may need attention on the road. It’s worth mentioning that the 8mm Allen key is an adaptor, however, it is firmly held in place when not in use and has not broken free.
In the context of the intended audience, a chain-breaker may not be missed.
The chrome vanadium steel bits are of the stubby sort, rather than the lengthy. The arms are aluminium. Both materials are highly suitable for purpose, and what one would hope for.
Performance 3.75/5
Manipulation is easy, it’s light and slim. However, if you have small hands – I’d describe mine as medium-sized – it may not feel quite as comfortable. The tools fit snugly in place when in use – and when out of it. I particularly like the way the valve core bit clip solidly into pace with little chance of mislaying it. Needless to say, all of the tools do their job. The Allen keys cover just about all bases, with the exception of some larger, and probably older, bottom bracket axle securing bolts.
Short bits and a broad, though slimline tool, present problems when it comes to racks and anything that obstructs access to disc brakes etc. So, think carefully about such points on your machine. However, where there is nothing impeding access, these short bits offer little flex. Nor does the frame. Initially, noting the slime rails, I wondered how it would handle. Going for a notoriously stubborn seat bolt – a common enough roadside adjustment – there was absolute rigidity.
The CO2 adaptor needs a firm push to ensure a decent seal – it does not screw onto the valve. As such, I’ve kept a thumb on it as a precaution, probably an unnecessary one. It fits Schrader valves, which, given the spec is not surprising.
From my perspective, this is an on-the-road tool. Multitools do have a place in the workshop, but I’d go for one with more functions and longer bits – that’s partly because of my own bikes, but also having to work on other people’s machines, too.
Care and durability 4/5
I’ve used these to work on four bikes, as well as carrying on trips out, and there are no marks on the bits or the rails. Given the materials you’d not expect any damage, although it is nice to see the rails free from scratches caused by encounters with other rear pocket contents.
Care should be limited to nipping up the Allen (Hex-head) keys when play commences. I’d give it a dry following a downpour, although Chrome Vanadium should go a long way toward preventing any corrosion.
Value 3.75/5
A penny short of £30 isn’t cheap, but it is well-made and very suitable for your bike, if it covers the bases you need. For the faster, light-weight rider, with a stripped-down machine, less maybe more.
Oxford produce a range of Torque Slimline multitools, of which the CO2 12 is the priciest. Prefer spoke keys, a bottle opener, and a chain-breaker, but want no CO2 adaptor? Try the Slimline 16. The cheapest is the very basic 6 function at £14.99. Their Torque Mighty 20, is a comprehensive multitool aimed much more at the belt ’n’ braces breed of cyclist.
The Torque Covert 7 – well suited to stripped down machines - hides the tool away in Hollowtech II or similar cranksets. It is more expensive and has fewe functions – notably, but unsurprisingly, a CO2 adaptor. It is also much more expensive.
Wolf Tooth’s Encase System comes in at £110, but it snuggles away a range of Allen keys, three Torx bits, spoke keys, Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers, chain-breaker, and tyre plug tool inside your handlebars (should they be compatible).
The Lifeline X Tools Pro 1in18 Multitool is both cheaper and has more functions, including a CO2 adaptor. OK, no longer made, but still widely available with look-a-likes around, too.
The Muc-Off 17 in 1 Multi Tool has a similar design to the Torque 12, however, it has no CO2 adaptor. However, it is cheaper.
Summary
This is very much a tool for the light-weight solo rider on bike sans racks and other accoutrements for touring or utility riding. Group ride mechanics or multi-day riders may well baulk at the lack of a chain-breaker, for example. Equally, it is well-made and if it suits you and your bike you have a very nice bit of gear.
Verdict 3.75/5 pocket-sized tool for stripped-down machines.
Steve Dyster
https://www.oxfordproducts.com/search/c2xpbWxpbmUgMTIgQ28y/
PUBLISHED MARCH 2025
