Feedback Sports make some of the best work stands and other workshop and bike storage kit available and now they’re moving into trail tools too. The Reflex Ratchet kit puts a workshop quality, T-bar or inline format, fixed torque wrench into your pocket and it’s a total joy to use.
Design and build
The magnetic ratchet tool sits in an asymmetric 'T' handle with a small metal lever to toggle between clockwise and anti clockwise directions. Magnetic bit holders at either end of the handle let you use it inline ‘screwdriver’ style if you don’t need the ratchet function. Or you can stick the 25mm extender into one end and create a symmetrical T handle, or stick it into the long end for extra leverage. The kit also includes a barrel style torque limiter set to 5nm. You then get 10 S2 stainless steel bits including 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm and 6mm hex heads; T10 , T25 and T30 Torx and a 3mm flat screwdriver head. A zipped soft case with belt loop keeps everything clean and together when not in use too.
Performance
The Reflex Ratchet kit definitely benefits from the ‘chunky car door’ effect where more weight automatically equates to better quality in my brain. The magnetic clunk fit is satisfying strong and very close tolerance too, so the various extensions and bits feel super secure when slotted in place. While Feedback claim 6-degree engagement I measured it at 4 degrees which is really handy in tight spots where handle movement is limited. Being able to configure the tool in various T bar or inline formats also gives it an accessibility advantage over ‘penknife’ style trail tools. The chunky design with knurled grip sections means the Feedback feels good in the hand. The soft case makes it more back pocket/internal storage friendly too. Having an 8mm hex would be a lot more useful (for emergency pedal tightening etc.) than a T30 head though. Even at 4 degrees the ratchet action also feels baggy compared to the crisper Topeak Rocket Ratchet tool.
Verdict
The Reflex Ratchet kit translates Feedback Sport’s excellent quality reputation they’ve built up over nearly 20 years of making workshop kit and loads it into a conveniently packaged and lovely to use bit driver. If you want the peace of mind of torque limiting on delicate bolts, it’s good value for the quality too. If you don’t need a torque adaptor Topeak’s Rocket Ratchet Lite kit gives you a chain tool and tire levers for just over half the price and Canyon's ratchet driver offers CO2 and tubeless plugger perks.
Tech specs: Feedback Sports Reflex Fixed Torque Ratchet Kit
- Price: $70.00
- Weight: 204g (full kit including case)
- Available from: feedbacksports.com
