Mineral Design Mini Bar multi-tool review
The Mini Bar comes with 10 bits: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm, plus Torx T25, Phillips and flathead screwdriver.
What is it
Born from a successful $20,000 Kickstarter campaign, the Mineral Design Mini Bar is a TIG welded, steel handled multi-tool with replaceable bits stored under an L-shaped handle. The compact shape allows for easy storage in a jersey pocket, saddlebag, or hydration pack, while the unique 3-poisiton handle provides the leverage and versatility of a larger tool.
We’d much rather wrench with one of these than a standard folding multi-tool.
The TIG welded steel handle accepts any 1⁄4” hex bit. The Mini Bar comes with 10 bits: 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm, plus Torx T25, Phillips and flathead screwdriver. The bits are stored in a rack that magnetically attaches to the handle, and the bar can store up to six bits at a time. Weight is 112 grams, including a fully loaded rack.
The L-shaped handles is magnetized to keep the bits in place when in use.
The upstart company was founded by Justin Dodd and Mike Manzione, a pair of mechanical engineers with experience in the cycling and motocross industry, along with consumer electronics and construction equipment.
Pros
- Includes most popular tool bits
- Durable nickel finish is scratch resistant
- Can be customized with most important tools for you
- Three possible positions lends versatility
- Magnets keep bits securely in place
- Easily fits inside jersey pocket or hydration pack
- Greater position versatility than folding multi-tool
- More leverage than folding multi-tool
Cons
- Small bits easier to lose than standard multi-tool
- Does not include chain tool
- Heavier than most multi-tools
It’s that big. For reference, our tester wears size L gloves.
Mtbr’s Take
Unlike so many multi-tools, the Mineral Design Mini Bar is actually pleasant to use. With 10 included bits and three possible positions, you can do everything from tighten hard-to-reach bottle cage bolts to adjust rear derailleur screws. There’s even an 8mm bit for swapping pedals, and it’s small enough to stash in a jersey pocket, saddlebag, or hydration pack.
The versatile tool has great hand feel.
The lone drawback, aside from dealing with such small bits, is the lack of a chaintool, a must carry for most mountain bikers. The easy answer is to pick up Mineral Design Barstow with chain tool, a clever device that slots inside the end of your handlebars.
The Mini Bar doesn’t include a chain tool, but Mineral Design has a clever answer.
Bottom line, whether riding mountain or road, the Mineral Design Mini Bar has become our go-to multi-tool of choice. The unique handle provides the leverage and usability of a much larger tool, which is why I often reach for it even in the garage when building up test bikes or swapping components. It has everything you need in a compact, user-friendly, and affordable package.
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Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Flamin’ Chili Peppers 
Price: $35
More Info: www.mineralbikes.com
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