Let’s Talk About Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit from Fix It Sticks promises a comprehensive, lightweight solution for trailside bike repairs. This kit aims to be the mountain biker’s best friend, offering essential tools in a compact, easily portable package. I was intrigued by the potential of a streamlined repair solution that wouldn’t weigh me down on long rides.
My aging multi-tool had become bulky and its integrated chain breaker was notoriously unreliable. I needed a compact and efficient solution specifically geared towards common mountain bike issues. The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit, with its replaceable bits, dedicated chain breaker, and tire levers, seemed to address these concerns perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the kit’s diminutive size and the seemingly bomb-proof black carrying case. The tools felt solid in hand and the bracket for the Replaceable Edition Fix It Sticks looked well-designed. The weight, at 9 ounces, felt reasonable, considering the included components.
I considered options from Topeak and Crankbrothers, both well-respected brands in cycling tools. I ultimately chose the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit because of its innovative stick design and the dedicated chain breaker. The other options felt bulkier and less focused on essential trailside repairs.
My initial impression was positive; I was excited to test the kit’s real-world performance. The compact design and seemingly comprehensive tool selection gave me confidence that this could be the perfect solution for my on-the-go repair needs.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit during a weekend of mountain biking in the rugged terrain of Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina. This environment provided ample opportunity to evaluate its performance in real-world conditions. The trails were a mix of rocky climbs, root-filled descents, and some creek crossings, offering diverse testing grounds.
The kit performed admirably in moderately wet conditions. I had to adjust a loose handlebar clamp after a particularly rough descent. The Fix It Sticks provided solid leverage, and the correct bit was readily available.
Using the kit was intuitive, with the bits being easily interchangeable. The handle’s ergonomics offered a comfortable grip, even with sweaty hands. I did find myself initially fumbling with the small bits, but this was quickly overcome with practice.
The only issue encountered was a slight difficulty in re-inserting the Fix It Sticks into their bracket on the first attempt. This wasn’t a major problem, but it required a little more attention than expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit has proven to be a reliable companion on my rides. The kit has accompanied me on numerous trails in varying conditions, from dry and dusty singletrack to muddy and rain-soaked fire roads. It’s a constant presence in my hydration pack.
The kit has held up exceptionally well, with minimal signs of wear and tear. The bits remain sharp and the carrying case shows no signs of damage. The anodized finish on the Fix It Sticks themselves seems durable and resistant to scratching.
Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe down the tools after muddy rides and occasionally apply a small amount of lubricant to the chain breaker. The carrying case keeps everything organized and prevents the tools from rattling around. This makes it easy to find the right tool quickly when needed.
Compared to my old multi-tool, the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit offers superior ergonomics, a more reliable chain breaker, and a significantly lighter weight. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and portability.
Breaking Down the Features of Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit
Specifications
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit is a comprehensive toolset designed for mountain bikers, offering essential repair capabilities in a compact and lightweight package. It weighs in at 9 ounces, making it easy to carry on rides without adding unnecessary bulk. The kit measures 5.5 inches (L) x 3.5 inches (W), further emphasizing its portability.
The kit includes the Replaceable Edition Fix It Sticks with a bracket for convenient storage. It boasts an array of essential bits, including 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mm hex bits, a T-25 Torx bit, and a P2 Phillips bit. These bits cover a wide range of adjustment and repair needs commonly encountered on mountain bikes.
Two Fix It Sticks Tire Levers are included for easy tire removal and installation. A dedicated Fix It Sticks Chain Breaker provides a reliable solution for chain repairs. Everything is neatly organized in a black carrying case with extra room for additional essentials.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the kit’s practicality and usability on the trail. The variety of bits ensures compatibility with most bike components. The lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry, and the dedicated tools offer superior performance compared to integrated multi-tool solutions.
Performance & Functionality
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit performs exceptionally well in its intended role of providing trailside repair solutions for mountain bikers. The Fix It Sticks provide solid leverage, allowing for easy tightening and loosening of bolts. The included bits are of high quality and show no signs of stripping, even after repeated use.
The chain breaker is a standout feature, offering a smooth and reliable way to break and reassemble chains. The tire levers are durable and make tire changes much easier than using improvised tools. The kit’s overall functionality is impressive.
The kit’s main strength lies in its focused design and the quality of its individual components. A potential weakness is the small size of the individual bits, which could be easily lost if not handled carefully. Overall, the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes portability and ease of use. The tools are constructed from high-quality materials, including durable steel bits and lightweight aluminum sticks. The 9-ounce weight is impressively light.
The carrying case keeps everything organized and easily accessible. The Replaceable Edition Fix It Sticks are comfortable to hold and provide excellent leverage. The kit is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit appears to be built to last. The materials are robust and show no signs of corrosion or wear after months of use. The bits are securely held in place and don’t wobble or loosen during use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wipe down the tools after use and occasionally lubricate the chain breaker. The carrying case protects the tools from damage and keeps them organized.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including the Replaceable Edition Fix It Sticks, a bracket, various hex and Torx bits, tire levers, and a chain breaker. The carrying case offers additional space to add other essential items, such as spare chain links, a quick link, or a small patch kit. There are limited customization options.
The kit is compatible with standard 1/4-inch hex bits, allowing users to add or replace bits as needed. This enhances the kit’s versatility and allows users to tailor it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit
Pros
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to carry on rides without adding bulk.
- Comprehensive Tool Selection: Includes essential bits, tire levers, and a reliable chain breaker.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials that withstand regular use.
- Ergonomic Design: The Fix It Sticks provide excellent leverage and a comfortable grip.
- Organized Carrying Case: Keeps everything neatly stored and easily accessible.
Cons
- Small Bits: Individual bits could be easily lost if not handled carefully.
- Bracket Insertion: Re-inserting the Fix It Sticks into the bracket can be slightly fiddly.
Who Should Buy Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit?
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit is perfect for mountain bikers of all skill levels who want a lightweight, reliable, and comprehensive tool kit for trailside repairs. It’s also suitable for gravel bikers and bike packers who prioritize portability and functionality. This kit is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to be prepared for common mechanical issues while riding.
Beginner cyclists who are just starting to learn about bike maintenance might find the individual bits a little overwhelming. Those who prefer a single, integrated multi-tool might not appreciate the modular design. Riders who rarely venture far from home or well-maintained trails might not need such a comprehensive kit.
A must-have accessory is a small quick link or spare chain links. Consider adding a small patch kit or tire boot for comprehensive flat tire repair capabilities.
Conclusion on Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit
The Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit is a well-designed and highly functional tool kit that delivers on its promise of providing a lightweight and comprehensive solution for trailside bike repairs. The quality of the components, combined with the thoughtful design, makes it a valuable addition to any mountain biker’s gear. The price is justified by the kit’s performance, durability, and portability.
I would highly recommend the Fix It Sticks Mountain Kit to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to handle common mechanical issues on the trail. It has become an indispensable part of my riding gear. Don’t leave home without it – be prepared and enjoy the ride!