Topeak Plug'n Tool Mountain

The handlebar tool segment keeps seeing new models, and it's no surprise. Recent years have seen a trend towards integrating everything into the bike, so why not the multi-tool too? With tools in the handlebars you don't need to worry about bags, nothing is hard to find, and everything is right at hand. But there are always some compromises. How does Topeak's Plug'n Tool Mountain measure up?

🛠️ Basic specs

Topeak makes several tools of this type. This is the base model designed for mountain bikes. It consists of a multi-tool with 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10 mm hex bits, T25 Torx, and Phillips — weighing 79 grams. The second part is a tubeless repair kit loaded with three medium-sized plugs (3.5 mm × 50 mm), weighing 25 grams. Both parts are largely plastic (the bits themselves are metal, of course).

The bits are swappable and use the standard 1/4" hex format. That means if the selection doesn't suit you or you lose one, you can pick up replacements at any hardware store.

For handlebar use you need a straight section at least 128 mm long with an inner diameter of 18–21 mm. A chain tool is not included — it can be bought separately or is included in the Pro version. Bear in mind though: that's three tools and you only have two handlebar ends, unless you're also running aerobars.

🪠 Installing in the handlebars

What I really like about this kit is the way it locks into the handlebars. I had to read the instructions first, but then I realised it's brilliantly simple.

At the end of each tool there's a rubber ring (two sizes are included in the box), which expands as you tighten the end cap. You slide the tool in, tighten the cap, the ring expands, and the tool is locked solid. To remove it, just loosen the cap. Quick, simple, and it works. Nothing rattles, nothing needs prying out.

Another bonus: no more pulling a muddy multi-tool out of a bag.

🔑 Multi-tool

The multi-tool is notably long — which is a good thing. You get significantly more leverage than with a compact tool. However, because part of it is plastic, applying very high torque is not a great idea — I wouldn't use it to remove pedals.

The bit selection is fairly limited. You have six slots, and the 10 mm bit is built directly into the tool body, so it can't be swapped out. The good news is that you can replace the other bits with standard 1/4" hex bits from any hardware store to suit your bike.

What bits do I miss? Some smaller ones for tightening brake pad retaining pins or cycling computer mounts. Every bike is a little different and it depends on your specific setup. I swapped out one bit for a Phillips cross-head. The other bit I was missing was 8 mm — handy for pedals or a DUB bottom bracket. As mentioned though, excessive force risks damaging the tool.

One extra bit can be stored inside the tool itself.

The individual bits are held on the multi-tool by a rubber band. Getting them out takes a bit of fiddling. The bits aren't held magnetically either, so if you pull the band off completely, bits drop everywhere. What works best for me is sliding the band to the edge of the bits, then nudging one out so it drops into your palm. You can see the technique in a YouTube video.

🥛 Tubeless repair tool

Getting the plugs out takes a little practice. Use the injector included to pull them out. The kit comes with just three plugs, which is fine for everyday riding, but for bikepacking I'd want a bigger supply. One snake bite and you're down to your last one…

The plugs are medium-sized, which can be appropriate for MTB use. You can of course carry spares separately.

🤼‍♂️ Comparison with Wolf Tooth EnCase System Bar

The comparison with the Wolf Tooth product was very interesting — differences are visible at first glance. The EnCase System Bar uses higher-quality materials in a much more compact form. Its smaller dimensions allow for many more bits, and a chain tool fits in as well. It is also considerably more expensive.

That doesn't make the Topeak Plug'n Tool Mountain worse in every way. It actually has some advantages. The larger bits are less likely to get lost, and removing the tool from the handlebars works far better. That last point was arguably the biggest weakness of the EnCase system — it could be tricky to pull out.

The Topeak is also 22 grams lighter, but lacks a chain tool and some bits.

📐 Summary

The Topeak Plug'n Tool Mountain fits into standard flat bars, but also into aerobars. The insertion and removal system works perfectly, and at a total weight of 104 g it holds its own against conventional multi-tools. I wished for more bits, but managed to source replacements so I have everything I need. Check handlebar compatibility beforehand — some bars have tapered ends. Aerobars usually don't have this issue.

The absence of a chain tool is a limitation, but in truth I haven't needed one in the field for years. For a serious bikepacking trip abroad, though, I'd probably want one along.

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