Need A Quality Torque Wrench

[OakLeaf]

I've read that beam-type wrenches are actually more accurate than the click or dial type. They don't need re-calibration after you buy them.

Professional mechanics prefer click-type wrenches because you can work more quickly - you don't have to watch the needle while you're torquing, and you can set it once and torque a whole series of fasteners that take the same torque, like on a cylinder head or similar cover. Plus, it is possible to over-torque with a beam wrench if you're not paying attention. And, the long flexible beam means it can be hard to work with in tight spaces.

I wouldn't spend $2-300 for a torque wrench if all I were doing was working on my personal bicycle, no matter how much groovy carbon fiber it had. A beam wrench is fine for that, but do get a quality brand like Craftsman or Park, as Smilingcat said.

You definitely want 1/4" drive for a bici, and also make sure the torque values you'll be going for (50-70 in-lbs on most bici fasteners) are in the middle of the wrench's range. All calibrated tools, from thermometers to pressure gauges, are made to be most accurate in the middle of their ranges.