Review: OneUp EDC Stem and Tool System
Originally posted on January 21, 2020 at 4:20 amEveryone from apparel designers to component manufacturers have been on a Sisyphean quest to get the gear we carry off our backs.
The OneUp EDC (Everyday Carry) Tool System was introduced in 2017. In order to use the system, riders had to cut threads inside the fork’s steerer tube using the company’s tap. Earlier this year, the company unveiled the new EDC Stem ($115) which utilizes an integrated preload system, eliminating the need for a threaded fork steerer tube. The stem is only offered in 35 mm clamp diameter and available in 35 or 50 mm lengths. In addition to working as a preloader, it is compatible with existing threaded EDC top caps and star nut compression systems like a traditional stem.
Installation of the EDC stem is simplified with OneUp’s five-step instruction and animated video. Once the stem and required top cap are installed and the headset bearings are preloaded without the use of a star nut, it is time to drop in the EDC Tool System ($60). Overall, if you are comfortable preloading headset bearings using a traditional stem, the installation of the EDC system should be a breeze.
There is a lot going on in such minimal space with the EDC Tool System but it doesn’t feel cheap or that corners were cut to make it all come together within the svelt 118-gram package. The multi-tool itself is lightweight at 59 grams. It consists of all the bits I typically look for including a 2.5 mm which seems to be often omitted in the more compact multi-tools. I also appreciated the execution of pairing the 5 mm bit with the “bump key” bit to act as an 8 mm bit. That “bump key” is genius: it’s a flathead screwdriver, quick-link breaker and EDC top cap tool, which can also act as a cassette lockring tool.
The chain breaker head is attached via a spare chainring bolt to a tire lever. In addition to being a chain breaker, the head features machined spoke keys and a Presta valve core wrench. To use the chain breaker, the head is rotated 90 degrees so that the tire lever becomes the chain breaker’s handle and the 3 mm hex on the multi-tool drives the pin out. Even being as light and compact as it is, it does its job.
Lastly, the Tool System provides a 4-inch sealed storage capsule that threads to the bottom of the carrier for carrying cash, super glue, patch kits or whatever it is that floats your boat. In lieu of the sealed storage, you can also thread a 20-gram CO2 cartridge to the bottom of the carrier.
Overall, I really like the concept and execution of having everything I would need to get back up and rolling right there at my fingertips. At no point did the tool system rattle or make a peep inside the steerer tube. Even after continued shop use of the multi-tool, the hex keys remain crisp and pronounced. The only gripe I have is that when using the preloaded stem, you can’t run a stem mounted GPS unit. Since I am not a fan of alternative GPS mounting solutions, I may use the original OneUp EDC Top Cap that requires threading the fork steerer tube. There is also an EDC Pump with unique storage solutions that is also quite appealing because I can easily carry it when I switch bikes. Regardless of which route I take, the OneUp EDC Tool System will continue to be my go-to multi-tool solution.
Words by Scott Williams Photos by Brett Rothmeyer
OneUp EDC Stem – $115
OneUp EDC Top Cap – $30
OneUp EDC Tool System – $60