surak

One of my bikes came with a DT Swiss wheelset that uses external lockrings for the disc rotors. I was thinking of getting the Park Tool BBT-69.2, but I'd need to buy a ratchet or breaker bar since I have neither. Would the BBT-9 be fine instead?

MudPie

You might want to send your query to Park Tool. I've asked them technical questions such as yours and they've responded pretty quickly. Best to hear the answer directly from them.

surak

I know the BBT-9 can be used on the same 16t external lockrings, it's more that I don't know whether buying it will make me regret not going with the more expensive version that allows for the use of ratchet and torque wrenches. Do people tend to precisely torque their lockrings or just go on feel?

jccaclimber

I can’t say that I’ve ever torqued a lock ring, but that has more to do with not owning any torque tools for long enough that I got a decent feel for it.
Looking online those two are the same price, and I consider a breaker bar to be a standard tool worth owning. While not needed a long lever, used responsibly, is really nice sometimes. It looks like to socket version takes up less space too. Having your load application offset from the handle has pluses and minuses depending on the circumstances.

HillRider

I use a torque wrench to tighten both disc rotor and cassette lockrings since the specified 40 -50 N-m is more torque than most people think and I already have suitable torque wrenches. That said, as long as you get them "very tight" it's probably adequate to go by feel. 3/8"-sq drive and 1/2"-sq drive breaker bars don't have to be expensive and I found mine used at local flea markets for less than $10/each for good brand names. Even Harbour Freight tools are adequate quality for this use.

Numerozero

Might as well get the newly released Park BBT-69.3. It allows you to use it with the (also) new Park BBT-RS Bottom Bracket Tool Retaining System.

BBT-69.3
Pros:
- all aluminum, so it doesn't mar the BB's external surfaces (more relevant if BB is colour anodized).
- 3/8" square drive for rachets, torque wrenches, and breaker bars

Cons:
- if you use a breaker bar, the stress will make the square 3/8" aluminum hole into a non-square hole

BBT-9
Pros:
- steel, so wears well
Cons:
- since it doesn't cup over the entire BB, easier to slip and mar the bike frame
- relatively short lever handle
- can't use a breaker bar or torque wrench

I had both; sold both and now use the Cyclus Snap.in system. But then I run a shop; for most people the BBT-69.3 is fine (or get a BBT-69.2 cheap from someone upgrading to a BBT-69.3)

veganbikes

The Snap-In seems cool-ish but a a nice Snap-On ratchet and the various compatible sockets would be my choice. However not having seen it or used it I don't want to totally pass on it probably in shop it is fine but mobile usage I want small and multi purpose.

BBRT is actually pretty neat, I am surprised I missed that one it actually looks to be quite handy. Didn't need more tools but I will put that on the list.


For the OP BBT-69.3 or a similar Abbey or other quality tool certainly would be the way to go.