There are two kinds of bike in this world: The ones that you lock up, and the ones that you don’t. I’m not talking about some heavenly, hippy dream of a city where you never need worry about having your ride jacked. I’m talking about the difference between the everyday bike you use to get around, and the bikes that are never left alone — bikes you only use off-road, or at the velodrome. Or even at your low-geared, single-speed polo bike tournament.

And it is these bikes that may benefit from the T?lio, a replacement quick-release skewer and lever with some hidden surprises. That lever is in fact a multi-tool, containing 4, 5 and 6mm hex wrenches, and an emergency 8mm hex wrench, a number two flat head screwdriver, a chain tool and two spoke wrenches (3.23mm and 3.45mm). In short, most of what you need for a day out except a set of tire levers and a spare tube, at a weight of just 99 grams (3.5 ounces).

The set comes from Pedro’s, maker of bike tools, and will be available in 2010. Just don’t use this on your urban ride: not only is a quick release a bad idea on an unattended bike, but you’ll be giving the thief the tools to completely strip your bicycle. That would be like leaving a ladder and a toolbox in your back yard every time you go on vacation.

Product page [Pedro’s via Urban Velo]