The 5 best multifunctional tools for enduro for less than €140

If you are a far-sighted endurist, you know that you always have to have a few tools with you to be able to help yourself at the bottom of the woods. But the question we all have is: which tools to take in your banana bag and which ones to leave at the workshop so as not to get heavier?

An effective solution to this problem is to use a Multifunctional Tool. For a reduced weight, it allows to replace screwdrivers, flat clamp, cutting clamp, knife, etc. Here is our selection of the best models for less than 140 €, tested for the constraints of off-road.

Our top 3 best multifunction clamps for Enduro

Detailed comparison: the 5 Best Multifunctional Tools

We selected these tools on the basis of enduro-specific criteria: weight, moisture resistance (mud), clamp strength and tip versatility.

1 : The SOG PowerAccess

The technical choice (compatible sockets 1/4′′)

The SOG PowerAccess is guaranteed for life. Although it is 30 grams heavier than the Leatherman Skeletool, it offers more tools (18 in total). This SOG is equipped with the patented “Compound Leverage” system, a central pivot gear which multiplies the clamping power clamps. It is a major asset for cutting thick wire or straightening a twisted lever without forcing. Another practical point: we can open the tool with one hand.

The Freenduro opinion:
On the finishing side, the SOG adjustments are a notch below Leatherman, but it has an undeniable technical advantage: its tip holder is in standard format 1/4′′. Unlike Leatherman’s proprietary format, this standard allows you to use your own sockets (8mm, 10mm, 12mm) or tips (Torx, BTR) directly on the tool. This is crucial to intervene on the specific screws of modern motorcycles (KTM, Beta, Sherco, etc.).

2 : The Leatherman Skeletool

The Best Weight/Quality Ratio

At less than €100, it is for us the best investment for a tool that will not leave your Banana Bag. The Skeletool misses first place only because of its proprietary ("flat") end cap holder invented by Leatherman, which requires an adapter to use standard end caps.

Some will criticise him for having only 7 tools, but in enduro it is an advantage: weight is contained (less than 150g). We are going to the essentials: excellent clamp, knife, cable cutter and screwdrivers. Its built-in carabiner allows it to be clipped quickly.

The Freenduro opinion:
What we love most is the manufacturing quality that no competitor has really been able to match. No play in the pivots, one-handed blade, and ruggedness. After several years of use, ours is like new. It is solid, made to last.

3 : Victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX (Ref 3.0224.MN)

Swiss watchmaking at the service of Enduro

We have long hesitated to include Victorinox because of the price, but this model Spirit MX Just fits into our budget (around 135-140€) and outperforms the competition in terms of finish. This ‘MX’ version incorporates a crucial innovation for us bikers: the opening of the blade with one hand thanks to a metal ergot, usable even with gloves.

He proposes 24 functions including a metal saw (useful for cutting a screw that is too long), a file, and sturdy scissors. It comes with a nylon case that protects the tool.

The Freenduro opinion:
If the Leatherman is “tactic”, the Victorinox is “surgical”. Its huge advantage in Enduro is the quality of its stainless steel. Where an American tool may end up stinging rust if it stays wet in a banana bag after a muddy outlet, the Victorinox does not move. The mechanics are incredibly fluid (all tools lock). This is a very long-term investment.

4 : The Gerber Center - Drive

The most ergonomic (but the heaviest)

We could have made this Gerber Center-Drive our first choice, but its price (close to 140€) and especially its weight (nearly 300g) put it back in 4th place. This is a pity, because this tool does not lack assets.

Its particularity? Its end-holder screwdriver located on the central axis of the tool (hence its name). This offers ergonomics and clamping torque similar to a real screwdriver. It accepts standard 1/4′′ magnetic tips. In addition, the sliding clamp opens with a snap of the wrist, which is very spectacular and practical.

The Freenduro opinion:
Made in the USA, it is a wonderful tool. If the extra weight (double the Skeletool!) does not put you off, it is probably the most capable of dismantling fairings or tightening plastics thanks to its central axis.

5 : The Gerber Suspension NXT

The economic alternative

With its 15 tools and attractive price, the Gerber Suspension NXT is the ideal option for small budgets. There is a correct stainless steel construction and a fairly precise fine-billed clamp.

The Freenduro opinion:
There is a “but”. If the price is low, so is the quality of the steels. The knife blade and screwdrivers are softer than Victorinox or Leatherman. For around EUR 50, it is an excellent occasional troubleshooting tool, but it should not be asked for the moon on heavy repairs in the middle of a special one.

The history of the four brands in this comparison

Better know the manufacturers to better choose.

Leatherman

Founded in 1983 by Tim Leatherman, it is the industry’s flagship company. Its flagship product, the Leatherman Pocket Survival Tool (PST), revolutionised the industry by combining pliers and knives in a pocket size for the first time. It is now the absolute benchmark in terms of US sustainability.

Victorinox

Famous for its legendary “Swiss Knife” supplying the army since 1891, Victorinox stands for absolute metallurgical quality. By embarking on multifunctional clamps (SwissTool), they brought their know-how in polished stainless steel. Their tools are known to be almost indestructible and totally rust-insensitive, making them the favorite of winter enduro practitioners.

Gerber

A US brand founded in 1939, Gerber is historically linked to the US military. Proof of its reputation, its clamps are part of the standard equipment of many US soldiers. Gerber stands out for innovative designs (such as the central screwdriver) and often aggressive pricing.

SOG

Originally known for its combat knives (inspired by special forces in Vietnam), SOG has established itself in multitool through engineering. Their patented “Compound Leverage” system offers superior cutting strength to competitors, ideal for cutting wire mesh or cable.