The Upgrade Compact Torque Driver comes with a range of useful tool bits and is set to 5Nm to cover a range of bicycle applications. It has an excellent cam-over action which positively indicates you’ve hit 5Nm. The handle is a little uncomfortable to use but it’s compact size means it would be easy to stash in any toolbox. It proves to be sensibly priced and readily available.
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Upgrade Compact Torque Driver - Technical details
The Torque driver comes with a range of bits to suit most applications: 3, 4, and 5mm hex will cover the usual stem, seat collar and handlebar controls, T25 Torx for rotor bolts and some brands of handlebar controls.
At 5Nm this torque driver is suitable for a range of bicycle applications, such as tightening stem bolts and seat post clamp, and other bits and pieces around the bike. So 5Nm is a versatile measurement to set a torque wrench.
Fitting the correct bit into the tool is easy, just pull out the current bit and replace it with the required one. The magnetic retention is reassuringly strong but does require a good tug to pull out. The same can be said for the tool holder which does a good job of keeping hold of the various bits. This holder sits nicely on the tool shaft but recommends de-sheathing from the shaft to make the tool nicer to handle.
Upgrade Compact Torque Driver - Performance
Using the torque driver was a bit of a struggle, the leverage provided by the handle isn’t quite enough so it can be a little uncomfortable to use, particularly for smaller hands. The post sticking out the top of the handle also gets in the way, putting pressure on your palm.
The cam-over action is very positive when you hit 5Nm, it's a distinct moment which is reassuring - there’s little risk of over-torquing with this driver. I compared the torque against an adjustable torque wrench from my tool kit and can confirm they agreed with each other so I’m happy with the accuracy of the stated 5Nm value.
The compactness of the tool is great, very handy to keep in the car/van toolbox if you need to do a bolt check at the start of a ride or a lunch break.
Upgrade Compact Torque Driver - Value and Verdict
With an RRP of £22 to Upgrade Compact Torque Driver is certainly worth investing in. Other options include the Birzman Torque Driver which our friends at Road.CC reviewed here, it comes in slightly more expensive but the handle looks slightly more comfortable to use. If you’re looking for the best, Park Tool PTD-5 Preset Torque Drive is always an option. At £50 it's not cheap but it has the usual Park Tool quality and performance.
The Upgrade Compact Torque Driver proves to be suitably compact and accurately provides a positive cam-over 5Nm torque limit. It's sensibly priced and comes with the correct tool bits for a bicycle application however the handle is a little small and can be uncomfortable to use.
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