ToPeak Mini PT30 Review

ToPeak makes a vast array of products with everything from multi-tools and shop tools, to bike work stands, pumps, and bikepacking bags. They make a range of quality multi-tools, including the new Mini PT30 we tested. Since its predecessor, the Mini 20 Pro, was our previous award winner, we were compelled to try out this updated, feature-packed model.

Performance Comparison

Features

The Mini PT 30 is as feature-packed as they come. ToPeak claims 30 functions in this compact multi-tool, the majority of which we found to be quite useful. It comes in a neoprene bag with all of the standard hex sizes, Torx bits, chain repair tools, and tubeless plug tools. This model has everything you need for just about any trail or roadside fix.

The Mini PT30 comes with all of the standard size hex bits, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm. It also comes with a 10mm hex socket that fits on top of the 8mm bit. The 2mm hex head is L-shaped, while all of the other sizes are straight. It also comes with Torx bits in sizes T10, T15, and the common T25. The shaft of the T10 bit is textured and intended for use as a reamer of small holes in your tires before you insert a tubeless tire plug. Additional tire repair features include a plug insertion tool and a small serrated knife/saw blade (it does not come with tubeless tire plugs). Both the plug insertion tool and the knife blade lock into place when unfolded. A #2 Phillips and a flat head screwdriver round out the tools that fold out from the frame.

On the other side of the tool, the chain pin breaker holds several additional tools and features. The chain tool rests between the forged aluminum frame of the tool and is held in place by the threaded pin breaker through one side of the frame and into the tool. You need to remove the chain tool from the rest of the tool to use it or any of the other functions on it. The threaded pin breaker uses the 4mm hex head from the tool when breaking a chain. There is also a quick link tool that can pop stubborn quick/master links. ToPeak has also included a chain hook that can be helpful to hold your chain in place while performing chain repair. Other tools integrated into the chain tool are 14G, 15G, Mavic M7, and Shimano 4.5mm spoke wrenches and a disc pad spacer. Underneath the disc pad spacer is a spot intended for quick link storage.

The functions listed above are more than most people will ever end up using, but those only add up to 25. To get to ToPeak's claimed 30 functions, they include things like the knife blade and plug insertion tool locks, “extendable for leverage,” and a secondary chain link fence as “added features.”

Ergonomics

We found the ergonomics of the Mini PT30 to be good. The tool is a moderate size that may feel a bit bulky in the palm of the hand but allows for adequate wrenching leverage. The smooth aluminum plates that make up the frame have rounded edges that feel good in the palm. The tools are acceptable length for most uses.

With measured dimensions of 3" x 1.75" x .75", the Mini PT30 strikes a nice middle ground that avoids being too large or too small. The width of the tool fits across most of the palm for a secure grip, and it is just the right length to provide adequate leverage for most wrenching tasks. The forged aluminum side plates are nice and smooth, with no sharp edges. The tools fold down clean and flat with nothing sticking up when wrenching. Depending on how the tool is held, the screw holding the chain tool in place can dig into your hand when leveraging a bolt and is uncomfortable.

The tools themselves are a good length with an inch of prominence from the body of the tool when folded out. We found this length to work well for most fixes on the go, but depending on the bolt placement, the wide body may interfere. We also like the fact that the chain tool comes off the main body of the tool when you need to use it. We feel this generally makes it a little easier to use than models that have the chain tool folding out from tool. That said, the CrMo Steel chain tool is a touch on the small side, and it can be hard to hang onto when twisting the tool hard to break a stubborn pin.

Portability

While it may not be the smallest or the lightest tool we tested, we feel the Mini PT30 is quite portable, considering the number of functions it holds. Its moderate size and weight are negligible, plus it comes with a neoprene storage bag that keeps it wrapped up tight in your pack or adds to its comfort when stashed in a shorts or jersey pocket.

At 170-grams, the Mini PT30 is at the upper end of average for the tools in our test selection. It's far from the lightest, but it also has roughly double the number of features of the lightest weight models. It also has a tubeless plug insertion tool, so that is something you won't need to carry in addition to your multi-tool. Gram counters could shave a little weight from this tool by removing the 10mm hex socket or ditching the neoprene case if you don't think you need them.

The 3" x 1.75" x .75" dimensions of the Mini PT30 land it squarely in the middle of the pack in terms of its size. Again, we feel this size is quite impressive, considering the wealth of tools and functions it holds. It takes up minimal room in your pack and easily stashes in your jersey pocket or saddlebag. The neoprene case is a nice feature that enhances its comfort should you keep it in your jersey or shorts pocket that makes it feel softer against the body.

Ease of Use

The Mini PT30 scored well for its ease of use. The tools are labeled, making them easy to identify, but they can be a little challenging to deploy. The neoprene case adds the step of removing the tool from the case, and removing the chain tool means you have to remove the bolt holding it in. Otherwise, using it is quite straightforward.

Since the Mini PT30 lives in its neoprene storage bag, there is the added step of removing it from the bag every time you need to use it and keeping track of the bag, so you don't lose it. Once out of the bag, the majority of the tools fold out from the middle. The 4, 5, and 6mm hex heads are labeled, as are the T15, T25, and Phillips screwdriver. Both the plug insertion tool and the knife have a locking feature that keeps them from moving around when in use. The other tools have a good amount of tension on them, so they don't move around too easily, but are still easy enough to fold open if you can get a finger on the tip. The hinge on both ends of the tool can also be tightened or loosened with a 3mm hex head.

The chain tool, and all of the tools on it, needs to be removed from the body of the tool before use. This is done by unthreading the chain pin breaker all the way out of the aluminum side plate. Once the chain tool is free, the pin breaker needs to be threaded back into the chain tool before use. This process isn't particularly difficult; it just adds time and effort to the process. We do like the fact that the chain tool is separate from the rest of the tool when using it to break a chain or when using the spoke wrenches that are integrated into it. We are also huge fans of the chain hook, a simple feature that makes working on your chain way easier.

Construction Quality

The Mini PT30 appears to be a highly durable product with an all-metal construction. The forged aluminum side plates, corrosion resistant chrome vanadium steels tools, and CrMo steel chain tool have been put through the wringer and look no worse for the wear. We expect this well-made product to stand the test of time and many seasons of use.

Despite numerous hard wrenching efforts in the bike workshop and out in the field, all of the bits and heads look like new with no rounding or stripping to speak of. The chain tool has popped many pins, and aside from a bit of chain grime, shows no signs of premature wear. The tool has lived in a fanny pack for weeks, and thanks to its neoprene case, it has been protected from getting scratched or worn by other items as we've rattled down hundreds of miles of rough singletrack trails.

Value

The Mini PT30 is among the more expensive multi-tools we tested, but we feel it is a good value considering its wealth of features and well-rounded performance. This quality tool has everything you need for just about any trail or roadside fix with good ergonomics and a reasonable size and weight.

Conclusion

The Mini PT30 is a high-quality multi-tool that packs a lot of features and functions into a sleek, moderately sized package with good ergonomics and all of the tools you should ever need. It may be a bit more expensive than some other competitors, but you can't put a price on preparedness, and this all-metal tool should last for many years.