Multi-tools – we’ve used a few in our time. But none has been as impactful, visually, as the Chamber from Fabric.
The cylindrical polished aluminium tool, which weighs a surprisingly low 162 grams, really is a standout product, both aesthetically and functionally. We’ve actually never got as excited about a multi-tool as we have about this one. Once the novelty wore off though, we were able to take an objective look at it.
We like that it can slip easily into and out of a pocket or pack. No snagging on clothing or anything sharp digging into your lower back. You screw the hollow cylinder off the base of the tool, which holds six longish hexagonal bits, each with a tool head on each end. You select your tool, and connect it to the ‘cover’, which has a reversible ratchet head on the closed end to tighten or loosen as you need. A non-ratchet version is also available apparently at a lower price. But we’d not want anything other than the ratchet option to be honest.
The bits are 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm and 8mm Allen keys; two sizes of flat screwdrivers; two sizes of Phillips screwdrivers and T10 and T25 torx bits. The 8mm Allen key head is separate and fits onto the 5mm head for use. For storage though, it sits in the middle of the other bits, held in place by a small rubber o-ring.
The workmanship and finish are exceptional and the functionality is really very good. There’s plenty of leverage for any bolt or screw on a bicycle and ample mechanical advantage with minimal effort, thanks to the ratchet system. There’s also great hand comfort, thanks to the smooth cylinder surface.
You’d have to carry a separate chaintool, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing considering how difficult chain tools on certain multi-tools can be to use properly – especially very small multi-tools.
The best part about the Fabric Chamber is how easy it is to tighten or loosen bolts or screws in awkward places, such as bottle cage mounts and saddle clamps.
The Fabrick Chamber is elegant, fairly small and works exceptionally well. What a breath of fresh air! It does however come at a price. As long as you don’t lose any of the bits, it’s likely to last a very, very long time though.
WEIGHT: 162g
FUNCTIONS: 13
COLOUR: Polished aluminium
PRICE: R700
CONTACT: www.omnico.co.za / www.fabric.cc
*Originally published in TREAD Issue 40, 2016 and can be found on Zinio – All rights reserved
