US bike pump and tool firm Silca have reached their Kickstarter target to launch a new range of portable bike tools. Production of a multi-configuration ratchet and titanium torque tool will now go ahead, with delivery to backers expected in December of this year.
Based in Indianapolis, Silca have a long history of producing cycling tools since the company was first founded in Italy in 1917. This is their first Kickstarter project, with the funds helping cover the tooling costs and machining of the new T-Ratchet and Ti-Torque products.
The T-Ratchet is a 100mm long, 60 gram tool which magnetically converts between T-Handle tool, thumb stabilised ratchet tool, and flag handled screwdriver. The tool uses a 72 tooth ratchet mechanism developed by Silca for, they say, significantly finer engagement than other designs.
Ti-Torque is a 30 gram, 100mm long extender for the T-Ratchet that is capable of measuring 0-8Nm torque readings in real time. Ti-Torque is based on a 6Al/4V Titanium Torsion beam, and displays torque on the side of the extender during use.
Silca has spent more than 10 months in development and has worked with numerous ProTour mechanics, fit studios, adventure athletes and others to refine the design and achieve ideal ergonomics.
"We started this project with great excitement, but the response from our test athletes and mechanics in the field has been truly overwhelming. We've literally had product testers refuse to send them back for evaluation as they felt the tools were too critical to their daily lives," said Silca president Josh Poertner.
"Stories of fixing bicycles at the Dauphine and Giro, on the Tour Divide route, adjusting ski bindings in a helicopter on the way up a mountain and so many more. We are thrilled that we can finally bring accurate torque and along with superior ergonomics and function to this category."
For an $85 (£65) donation on Kickstarter, backers will receive both tools together with 10 hardened steel bits, a bit extender and a waxed canvas bag.
For more information and to support the Kickstarter campaign, visit www.kickstarter.com.
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