Reviews

TOOL-E Storage Tray

Reviewed on 04/29/2003

Photo used with permission of Ron Hilliard

The TOOL-E is an ingenious storage device, designed and manufactured by Ron Hilliard in Hastings, MN.  Ron created the TOOL-E to work exclusively with BikeEs and has models to work with BikeE CTs 97-00, CTs 01-02 and ATs.

The TOOL-E is a lightweight, aluminum tray that slides inside the rear of the frame.  Once installed it is very difficult to tell it apart from the bike frame.  It can provide security for your tools, money, cell phone etc. and is completely rain proof.  I purchased one for my CT2.0 and use it every time I go out for a ride.  I pack all of the following in it: 20" tube, small adjustable wrench, Park multitool (allen wrenches, spoke wrench, chain tool, screwdriver), patch repair kit, tire levers, zip ties, money and cell phone.  I can basically carry every tool I need for short trips and if you own a 01-02 CT the Tool-E for your bike can carry twice as much.  I've even left everything inside it while in the library or a restaurant and never had anything stolen.

When I first received my TOOL-E, I found it a little tight fitting in the frame.  This was easily fixed by sliding a bar of soap along the rails on the TOOL-E.  Now it slides on and off without a problem yet still fits snugly and doesn't rattle.  I also put a little strip of felt in the bottom to prevent the tools from making noise.

I have been really pleased with my Tool-E and can recommend them to anyone who owns and rides a BikeE.  Ron currently has them on sale for $23.85 and that includes all shipping and handling charges.  You can reach him by email:  whytoole@aol.com or at the TOOL-E website NOTE: There are currently no more Tool-E trays available.