Every home mechanic, and even cyclists who like to tinker and make small fit adjustments, need a torque wrench for low-torque applications like handlebars, stems, and seatpost bolts/clamps It isn't all about carbon components and frames, as even aluminum, steel, and titanium fasteners and parts have specific torques specs. Ritchey has long offered simple, one size, one click tools, but have looked to Italy for a compact, precise (+/- 4%) torque wrench with the perfect torque range for many bike component applications. The Ritchey Torque Wrench 2-16N (Newton meters) is used by pro, shop, and home mechanics to preserve the integrity of bolts, receiving threads, and components themselves.

Easily adjustable in half Newton meter increments, this simple device is basically a lever that measure the force required to tighten to the desired specification. Unlike some other compact models, this is not a ratchet. Use a hand tool to tighten close to torque, then apply torque perfectly with the wrench. When you reach torque, you will feel the torque limiter release to about 3° and hear a clear click. The tool itself is machined from aluminum stock, and light anodized for durability. All markings are laser-etched for permanence. The handle itself is knurled, as is the torque setting dial, so you can safely handle the tool even with greasy or wet hands. The tool interface is a precison machined standard 1/4" drive socket head. Ritchey provides a comprehensive bit and tool set for virtually all current bike system fasteners, even extended versions for challenging reach bolts, such as on some shifter mounts and brake calipers. All the tools are made from S2 special steel for hardness, and will hold clean edges for many uses.

Ritchey has this tool made by Effetto Mariposa, and it is quite similar to the Giustaforza II 2-16 with the exception of some of the tools packaged here. Effetto guarantees the torque efficacy of wrench for 5000 uses (clicks), before it needs to be re-calibrated. This is normal for quality torque tools, an expected outcome from use. The Italian company offers a service for calibration. Keep in mind that 5000 is actually a substantial number of uses, especially for the home mechanic. We highly recommend this tool set for it's precision and ease of use. It is especially light, and you can feel the effect of the torque application taking place as a result. If you are dealing with inch or foot pound specifications, there are easy conversion calculators and charts online, but the Newton meter (Nm) measure is most commonly used by cycling companies today, and most components that have a torque specification are marked as such or is listed in instruction manuals.

The Ritchey Torque Wrench 2-16N is tool you will never regret buying and using. Anyone who has crushed a carbon component, or stripped the threads of an expensive alloy bolt interface will understand the value. And if you haven't, perhaps you need to stop tempting fate or riding a set-up that is not actually fastened properly because you were too conservative. Get it right, and safe, every time with this torque wrench set from Ritchey.