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Buyer's Guide

The Best Bike Torque Wrenches For 2024

Choosing the right torque is important, so is choosing the right torque wrench.

Updated: February 7, 2024 by Peter Watts

torque wrench lying on wooden worktop

Tightening bolts on bicycles to the correct torque is essential for avoiding damage to components and ensuring that no parts work loose during use. For this reason, a torque wrench is an essential tool for home-mechanics and professionals alike that could save you time and money (and potentially a trip to the ER) in the long run.

There is a dizzying array of torque wrenches on offer today, from premium brands to cheap and generic. But which is best? Here we've compiled some of our favourites.

Adjustable Torque Wrenches


Wera Click-Torque A 5

• $$$

Wera A 5 product image
(Image credit: Wera)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2.5-25 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch square drive
  • Bits included: None

Pros:

  • Exceptional build quality
  • Easy to read torque scale
  • Solid click
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Price reductions

Cons:

  • Extra cost for bits to be included
  • Measures torque in a single direction

Wera is a tool manufacturer from Germany renowned for their quality products. They put a real focus on innovation and questioning existing standards, even going so far as to name themselves 'Tool Rebels'. This approach can certainly be felt in their A 5 torque wrench, which is our top pick for 2022.

With it's unique ergonomic handle and exceptional build quality, it feels great in the hand and is a true pleasure to use. The stand out feature for us is the easy to read torque scale, with values given in both lbf-ft and Nm, as well as a large display for incremental values. The mechanism for setting the desired torque value is also easy and intuitive, while the click it provides when the required torque is reached is solid and won't be easily missed (as can happen on some cheaper wrenches). With a torque range of 2.5-25 Nm, this wrench will cover most bolts you'll find on a bike and makes it a great all-rounder.

The only downside we can find is that it's only designed to measure torque in a single direction. According to Wera, theoretically, the wrench should work in both directions but they don't guarantee this and recommend using a different wrench if you require this feature. This tool does sit on the higher end of the price range but we've seen price reductions and discounts that make it a must-have.

Pro Bike Tool Click Torque Wrench

• $$

Pro Bike Tool torque wrench product image
(Image credit: Pro Bike Tool)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2-20 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch square drive
  • Bits included: Hex: H2, H2.5, H3, H4, H5, H6, H8, H10. Torx: T10, T25, T30 socket set and 100mm extension bar

Pros:

  • Good build quality
  • Great value
  • Measures torque in both directions
  • Includes variety of bits
  • Hard carry case

Cons:

  • Click can be subtle
  • Torque scale could be easier to read

For those that don't want to break the bank but still want a quality product, this torque wrench from Pro Bike Tool is a solid choice. We are very impressed with this tool as a whole and think that it's one of the best that you can find at this price point.

It covers a wide range of 2-20 Nm and is even dual drive, so is able to measure torque in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions, a useful feature that is frustratingly rare amongst torque wrenches. The quality of construction is also very good, although the scale isn't as clear as the Wera and the click can be quite subtle, especially at low torque values. The wrench comes packaged in a protective plastic carry case and includes a broad variety of bits, so you should have everything you need straight out of the box.

Overall, this tool is great value and should suit most home mechanics, with the dual drive especially useful for those working on full suspension mountain bikes.

Park Tool TW-5.2

• $$

Bikehand torque wrench product image
(Image credit: Park Tool)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2-14 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch square drive
  • Bits included: None

Pros:

  • High quality construction
  • Easily readable torque scale
  • Measures torque in both directions
  • Includes torque conversion chart
  • Comes with hard carry case

Cons:

  • Subtle click at low torque values
  • Narrow torque range
  • Doesn't include bits

No list of bike tools is complete without an offering from Park Tool, and for good reason, they consistently produce highly functional and hard-wearing tools that have become staples of bike mechanic's toolboxes around the world. The TW-5.2 Torque Wrench is no different, with a solid build and an ergonomic handle this feels like a quality tool.

Torque is set by turning the base of the handle, which locks in place when finished, and values are easily read from the embedded scale. There is even a handy chart included on the wrench itself which helps to convert between Nm and in lb. The torque range isn't massive and covers only 2-14 Nm, though the wrench is able to measure torque in both directions. The click is loud at high torque values but at low values it can be quite faint, so may be missed. Overall, this is a solid offering, however, it does seem a little expensive when compared to some cheaper wrenches, such as the one from Pro Bike Tool, especially when considering it doesn't come with any bits.

Effetto Mariposa Giustaforza II 2-16 Pro Deluxe

• $$$$

Effetto Mariposa Giustaforza II Pro Deluxe product image
(Image credit: Effetto Mariposa)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2-16 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch square drive
  • Bits included: Hex: 2, 2.5, 3, 4 (long), 5 (long) & 6mm. Torx: T10, T15, T20, T25 (long) & T30. Phillips #2. 100mm extension.

Pros:

  • Exceptional build quality
  • High accuracy
  • Small and lightweight
  • Easily readible torque settings
  • Includes a variety of bits
  • Loud click

Cons:

  • Price
  • Measures torque in a single direction

Made in Italy by the bicycle nerds at Effetto Mariposa, the Giutaforza is a luxury tool that looks as good as it feels to use. The stylish, minimal design and exceptional all-metal construction provide a satisfyingly simple user experience that will have you looking forward to your next bolt check.

The wrench itself is machined from aluminium and weighs less than 200g. It's also relatively compact, making it great for carrying in a backpack or for tightening bolts in tight spaces. The torque scale is smaller than the Wera but still easy to read, while torque measurements are consistent and accurate. A strong click is produced when reaching the desired torque and is easily felt even at low values.

The deluxe version of the Giustaforza comes with a great variety of high quality bits and a wrap around case; we would have expected a hard plastic case at this price, however the wrap around helps to maintain the compact and transportable size when storing the wrench and bits.

Topeak D-Torq Wrench DX

• $$$$

Topeak D-Torq Wrench DX product image
(Image credit: Topeak)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 1-20 Nm or 4-80 Nm
  • Head style: 3/8 inch square drive
  • Bits included: Torx T25/T30/T40, #2 Phillips Screwdriver, Sockets 8/9/10/11/12/13/14/15 mm, Hex 3/4/5/6/8/10 mm, 3/8" Square Drive Adapter

Pros:

  • Excellent build quality
  • Incredible accuracy & precision
  • Measures torque in both directions
  • Includes a broad variety of bits
  • Very wide torque range

Cons:

  • Price
  • Requires battery to give torque readings

This is another high quality, and pricey, tool that was a contender for the overall top spot. If you truly care about getting the bolts on your pride and joy torqued as precisely as possible, then this torque wrench from Topeak is the one for you.

The D-Torq is a digital torque wrench, so is able to provide incredibly accurate, precise, and consistent feedback, which it does in the form of a digital display and audible beeps. The desired torque is set using arrow buttons next to the display and can be set in Nm, in lb, ft lb, or kg cm. This wrench is able to measure torque in both directions and is able to do so across a range of either 1-20 Nm or 4-80 Nm, depending on the size you choose. Included is an impressive array of bits that even includes sockets and an adapter for the 3/8 inch drive.

This is a fantastic tool and while we are slightly uncomfortable with the idea that a battery is required for this torque wrench to give torque readings, in reality it is unlikely to pose much of an issue, especially if you keep a spare to hand.

Venzo Bicycle Torque Wrench

• $

Venzo torque wrench product image
(Image credit: Venzo)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2-24 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch square drive
  • Bits included: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 mm hex, 5 mm long hex, Torx T20, T25, T30

Pros:

  • Great value
  • Great variety of bits
  • Hard carry case
  • Lockring prevents accidental torque adjustments

Cons:

  • Hard to read torque scale
  • Difficult to set precise torque values
  • Possible to accidentally change torque during tightening on the standard version

This torque wrench from Venzo is a fantastic tool for those on a budget. Made in Taiwan, the design is a generic one that you will see being sold under various different brands, including the Lifeline brand from Wiggle / Chain Reaction Cycles.

This wrench offers great bang for your buck, covering a range of 2-24 Nm and including bits that cover the majority of bolts/screws that you will encounter. The torque is set by twisting the black part of the handle, which can pose an issue where the handle can twist during use and lead to accidental changes in torque. To avoid this there is a slightly more expensive option with a lockable handle, which also includes an additional 4 mm longer hex bit. Our only other complaint is that the torque scale is hard to read which makes it difficult to set precise torque values. Regardless, this is a great value bit of kit.

Preset Torque Wrenches


Park Tool ATD-1.2

• $$

Park Tool ATD 1.2 product image
(Image credit: Park Tool)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 4-6 Nm in 0.5 Nm increments
  • Head style: 1/4 inch hex socket
  • Bits included: 3, 4, 5 mm hex, Torx 25

Pros:

  • High accuracy
  • Simple and well designed
  • Great build quality
  • Clear click

Cons:

  • Difficult to tighten hard to reach bolts

Ok we're aware that our pick for best preset torque wrench is actually adjustable but please hear us out! This wrench certainly feels like a preset one in terms of form factor and lack of ratchet, and is very similar to the range of Park Tool PTD wrenches, which are our favourite strictly preset drivers. However, we prefer the ATD as it can do everything that the PTDs can do while being much cheaper than buying all 3 available sizes (4, 5, and 6 Nm).

The design is simple but well thought out, with the handle easy to grip while tightening and doubling as a store for the bits when not in use. It also has a bomb-proof construction that should last a very long time. The only downside is that the shape can make it hard to reach bolts in tight spaces.

Ritchey Torque Key

• $

Ritchey Torque Key product image
(Image credit: Ritchey)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Preset torque options: 4 or 5 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch hex socket
  • Bits included: 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm hex; T20, T25 Torx; 1 Phillips # 1

Pros:

  • Price
  • Great range of bits
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Limited torque options

The Torque Key from Ritchey is great value preset option. It's light, yet sturdy, and the handle makes tightening easy using a thumb and finger. It even comes with 6 different bits and a convenient holder, making it a versatile tool that would be a great addition to any toolbox. The choice of preset torque values is somewhat limited, with 4 or 5 Nm the only options, but these would still suit a large number of bolts such as those on handlebars and seatposts.

Prestacycle Torqkey

• $

Prestacycle TorqKey product image
(Image credit: Prestacycle)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Preset torque options: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch hex socket
  • Bits included: None

Pros:

  • Price
  • Great range of torque options
  • Ok to use for loosening bolts

Cons:

  • Doesn't include bits

Another great value preset option is the Torqkey from Prestacycle. The handle fits nicely in the palm of the hand but as a lower profile than the Park Tool ATD, making it slightly better for reaching bolts in tight spaces. This is also one of the few preset options that the manufacturer says is ok to use for loosening bolts, as well as tightening. The Torqkey comes in a great range of torque options (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, and 12 Nm) but doesn't include any bits.

Compact Torque Wrenches


Topeak Nano Torqbar DX

• $$

Topeak Nano Torqbar DX product image
(Image credit: Topeak)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Preset torque options: 4, 5, 6 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch hex socket
  • Bits included: 3, 4, 5 mm hex, T20, T25

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Clever design
  • Doesn't allow tightening beyond specified torque

Cons:

  • Click is quite subtle

For tightening bolts on the go you need a wrench that is small and compact, and this cleverly designed tool from Topeak is exactly that. It's very lightweight and comes with 3 preset 'TorqBits' in 4, 5, & 6 Nm , that can be swapped out to adjust the desired torque value. The TorqBits function much like a regular preset driver and provide feedback through clicking, however this can be subtle. It also includes a few different tool bits so you should be covered for any on the fly adjustments. A plastic case is provided to house all the bits, or alternatively you can really cut down on size by storing a couple of your favourite bits within the bar itself and a TorqBit fitted to the end.

Feedback Sports Range Torque Wrench

• $$$

Feedback Sports Range Torque Wrench product image
(Image credit: Feedback Sports)
  • Best deals: Check Amazon
  • Torque range: 2-10 Nm
  • Head style: 1/4 inch hex socket
  • Bits included: #2 Phillips, T10, T20, T25, T30 Torx, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm Hex, Extended 5mm Hex, Extended T25 Torx

Pros:

  • Good value
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Great range of bits

Cons:

  • Doesn't provide click feedback
  • Case could be smaller

This is a great little compact tool from Feedback Sports - they've managed to combine a ratchet and torque wrench into a tiny package, with the wrench itself weighing only 75g. For tightening/loosening bolts you hold the red handle, which will allow you to utilise the ratchet without measuring torque. Then when the bolt is mostly tightened, you tighten while holding the black, rounded end of the handle and read the torque from the scale. The range of torque measured is 2-10 Nm which should easily cover any bolts that would need adjusting while on the go.

It's worth noting that there is no click with this wrench and you instead have to rely on reading the scale, which can be difficult when using on bolts in awkward places. The range of bits included is fantastic and the whole thing comes stored in a well made and compact carry case, though this could be smaller considering the size of the wrench. Overall, this wrench is very capable and is at home on the trails as it is in the workshop.

Things to Consider


Price

Price is possibly the biggest influencer on people's decision of which torque wrench to buy, and often the first thing they look at. There are a lot of cheap, generic wrenches out there that may catch your eye. However, you get what you pay for and these will typically be heavier, less accurate, harder to use, and come with lower quality bits. While for most people it may not be necessary to buy the most expensive wrenches on this list, it's our opinion that it's better to spend slightly more upfront to get a higher quality product that will last and do a better job.

Adjustable or Preset

Torque wrenches are either able to measure range of torque values, which may require the user setting a desired torque value or reading a torque value from a guage, or a single preset torque value. Adjustable torque wrenches are the most common type and suit most peoples needs as they provide the greatest flexibility. However, if you only want a torque wrench to tighten a single bolt, or a few bolts with the same recommended torque value, then a preset wrench may be the way to go. Some mechanics who are frequently tightening bolts like to have a few preset wrenches covering a range of torques so that they can just grab the wrench and start tightening without having to worry about setting it to the correct torque.

Torque Range

When selecting an adjustable torque wrench it is important to pay attention to the range of torque values that the wrench can measure. The right range for you is largely dependant on the bolts that you will be tightening and their recommended torque settings. Wider torque ranges allow for greater flexibility and a wider range of bolts to be tightened. However, a torque wrench is most accurate through the middle of its range, so a torque wrench with a very wide torque range will be less accurate for bolts requiring low and high torque. This is less of an issue with digital torque wrenches.

Torque Guage

The guage you use to either read or set torque values is also an important consideration. If the guage is vague or hard to read, then this will lead to less accurate torque measurements. Are the numbers hard to read? Does it clearly and accurately show the torque value that's being set? Would you be able to read it in a dimly lit garage or workshop? For wrenches that require reading the torque value, rather than setting it, it's also important to consider the position of the guage and whether it will be easy to read during tightening.

Size & Weight

If you are travelling with your torque wrench, or looking to take it out on rides with you, then you may want to go for a wrench that is lightweight and compact so it easy to pack away and transport. Size is also an important consideration if you have hard to reach bolts on your bike that you regularly tighten. Smaller torque wrenches are able to squeeze through tighter gaps and reach bolts that others can't.

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