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Park Tool I-Beam 3 Multi-Tool review

A 13-function I-beam multi-tool with hex wrenches, a Torx, a screwdriver, a composite tire lever, two spoke wrenches and a 10-speed chain tool.

Our conclusion A good tool held back by its 10-speed chain tool.

Photo : Anton Savinov, Unsplash

Park Tool makes the blue tools in most bike shops, and the I-Beam is its folding multi-tool. The IB-3 is the largest of the three in the range.

What the listing publishes

3, 4, 5, 6 and 8 mm hex wrenches, a straight blade screwdriver, then 1.5, 2 and 2.5 mm hex and a T-25 Torx, then a composite-wrapped tire lever, two spoke wrenches and a 10-speed compatible chain tool. It weighs 6.4 oz.

What 10-speed means today

Many new bikes run 11 or 12 speed chains, which are narrower. This is the main reason the M19 scores higher here. If your bike has 10 or fewer cogs, the difference does not apply, and the built-in lever is a real plus.

What to check before you buy

Count your cogs. Then think about whether you would ever fix a chain on the road. For flats and loose bolts, this tool has everything you need.

What we rate and what we flag

Strengths

  • A built-in tire lever
  • A long-established bike tool brand
  • Fewer, more useful functions

Compromises

  • Chain tool rated to 10-speed only
  • Costs more than the Crankbrothers
  • A long, narrow shape in a small bag

Specifications

Functions13
Hex1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 mm
TorxT-25
ScrewdriverStraight blade
Tire leverComposite wrapped
Spoke wrenches2
Chain tool10-speed compatible
Weight6.4 oz

The questions riders ask

Will it work on an 11 or 12 speed chain?

Park Tool lists a 10-speed compatible chain tool. For 11 and 12 speed, the Crankbrothers M19 on this shelf states that compatibility.

Does it include a Torx?

Yes, a T-25.

Our score

8.2/ 10

A good tool held back by its 10-speed chain tool.

Against the closest bike gear on price

Same category, nearby prices, between bike gear. What remains is the specifications every one publishes — half empty, a column is no use.

Model Price Weight
Park Tool I-Beam 3 Multi-Tool $38 6.4 oz
Marque Adjustable Torque Tool, 4-5-6 Nm $39 8 oz
Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool $35 175 g (6.2 oz)
LEXIVON Bike Torque Wrench 15-Piece Kit $60 1.3 lb

Where the models diverge, in bike gear

  • If price decides: Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool, at $35.

Who buys this one, among bike gear

Riders on 10-speed or older drivetrains who want a tire lever in the tool.

Sources

Specifications: the manufacturer sheet for bike gear and the matching Amazon product page. Prices and availability: Keepa. Every figure on this page names its source.

How we assess this bike gear

Prices quoted in these summaries are dated readings. The live price is shown next to each product.