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I'm always on the lookout for a decent multi tool, one that you can use at the side of the road without needing three hands and one that doesn't flex when tackling a stubborn bolt. The Topeak Tool Monster Air is pretty much there, I reckon – even with the one major compromise you have to make.

So, let's get straight to it – what's the compromise?

Due to the CO2 inflator head on the Monster Air, you have to sacrifice the chain splitting tool found on the standard Monster. That'll be a pretty large omission on a multi tool for some of you, as a broken chain on a ride pretty much means game over. On the flip side, though, I tend to puncture more often than I snap a chain so I reckon I could live without.

> Find your nearest dealer here

The rest of the tool is impressive, not just in the number of different functions – 19, as you're asking – but also in the layout of those tools.

The Monster Air comes in two pieces that locate together via one of the 8mm hex keys and are held in position by a couple of magnets plus a tool strap. By positioning the two parts together in various positions you can use the extended length or angle to generate more torque. As it's made from stainless steel you shouldn't see any corrosion issues either.

The range of hex keys, from 1.5mm to 8mm, covers every bolt on the bike, with the most commonly used 4/5/6mm being part of the T-shaped smaller tool, which gives you plenty of leverage. Torx bolts aren't an issue either, as a T10 and T25 are also included.

One end of the main tool is formed as a 15mm open spanner for pedal spindles and axle nuts for you single-speeders out there. It's positioned opposite the CO2 inflator, so you can really wrap your hand around it and get things tight.

The remaining tools are two 8mm box spanners, 14g/15g spoke keys, and a #2 Phillips screwdriver for tweaking those mech limit screws. Everything you should need then, really, whatever style of bike you're riding.

> Check out our guide to the best multi tools here

The CO2 inflator is simple to use and works with any threaded cartridges, although obviously Topeak recommends that you use its own brand in either 16g or 25g size, the former easily getting a 25mm road tyre up to 110psi from flat.

The head works with both Presta and Schrader valves, the difference being the latter needs to have the head screwed on. With both, once positioned, you just push the whole device against the valve and, voila!, a pumped-up tyre.

On the pricing side it's at the upper end of the market at £59.99, but it is very well made and, like I've said, very competent in use. I'd definitely shop around as you can get it for around 15 quid less online.

It's reasonably light, too, at 161g, and being long and thin it'll sit easily in a jersey pocket or saddle bag without taking up much room.

> Which multi tool do you rely on for on-the-road fixes? Tell us in this week's People's Choice poll

Overall, it's one of the best all-rounder multi tools I've used, and I've used it a lot – both on the side of the road and in the workshop as it was often to hand. Yep, it's pricey, but it'll certainly last you, with Topeak honouring that with a two-year guarantee.

If you would rather swap the CO2 inflator for a chain tool, Topeak offers the standard Tool Monster for £44.99, which has the same layout and functions as the rest of the Air.

Excellently designed multi tool with plenty of functions, but pricey and lacks a chain tool

If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website

Make and model: Topeak Tool Monster Air

Size tested: 10.6x4.7x1.5cm

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Topeak says: "Unique articulating two-piece design for added leverage and ease of use and storage."

It's a very impressive design and array of functions. The two-piece design allows you to set it up for increased leverage.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Allen Bits: 1.5 / 2 / 2.5 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 (2 pcs) / 8 (2 pcs) mm

Added Features: Chain pin breaker

Size (L x W x H) 10.6 x 4.7 x 1.5 cm / 4.2' x 1.9' x 0.6'

Doesn't feel as heavy as you would expect by looking at it.

A bit on the pricey side compared with some of its competitors, but backed up with decent quality and great design.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

A really well thought out piece of design.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Two-piece design allows for a greater level of leverage.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes

Would you consider buying the product? Yes, if I could find a decent discount.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes

Use this box to explain your score

The overall design is excellent. Rather than just have everything pivoting out from a central point, each tool is positioned where it can be used to get the greatest amount of leverage and clearance. It's been designed by someone who has had to use one of these things at the side of the road in the rain.

Age: 37  Height: 180cm  Weight: 76kg

I usually ride: This month's test bike  My best bike is: Mason Definition

I've been riding for: 10-20 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, club rides, sportives, fixed/singlespeed

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With 20 years of road cycling and over 150,000 miles in his legs it's safe to say Stu is happiest when on the bike whatever the weather. Since writing his first review for road.cc back in 2009 he has also had a career in engineering including 3D-CAD design and product development, so has a real passion for all of the latest technology coming through in the industry but is also a sucker for a classic steel frame, skinny tyres, rim brakes and a damn good paintjob. His fascination with gravel bikes is getting out of control too!

Trek should fire him. If not, at his next race he's fair game.

What speed was the old dear riding at on the pavement, that a gesticulation caused her to crash onto the road? I suspect being 77 had a lot to do...

If he upsets the lefty/green contingent, they will not only not use his shop, they'll likely protest outside his shop to discourage others using him..

Shimano will continue to make existing groupsets for several years and if there is enough demand for sets like Deore Trekking, they will continue...

**pummels the living shit out of them with a 3 kg d lock in self defence of course**...

If you want them that is fine, that is your choice, but anyone who claims you can stop better with disc brakes, has either had crap rim brakes...

Agreed - although, funny enough, when that narrative suits them better, drivers will just as easlily call cyclist rich elitsts....

I guess it's better than a proprietary fitting, but why would anyone put microUSB on a new product in 2023?

Leaning towards Revolt currently, unless a good used Defy comes up. Giant are selling off 2021 models (which have basically identical riding geo to...

Pricey for what it is, but invaluable in day-to-day life, a clever design and it should last for years

A compact, light and easy-to-read tool for getting the correct torque in tricky places.

An impressively comprehensive tool for its size let down by soft Torx bits and high price

High quality tool that hits the function versus size sweetspot perfectly – it's worth the high price

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