A jagged or angled hose cut creates problems you won't see until the brake is bled and back on the bike. Air can work past the olive and into the system, the barb insert may not seat fully, and the connection might weep fluid under pressure. Shimano's TL-BH62 eliminates these issues by combining a precision cutting mechanism with an insert press in a single tool, ensuring the hose end is square and the barb is fully seated before you ever add fluid to the system.

The cutting side clamps the hose securely and guides the blade through at exactly 90 degrees. You adjust the clamping force to match different hose diameters, which prevents the hose from deforming or shifting during the cut. The blade design produces a clean edge without the pinching or crushing that can happen with standard cable cutters or utility knives. A spare blade ships with the tool, so you have a backup when the original dulls after repeated use.

Flipping the tool over accesses the insert press function. After sliding the olive onto the hose, you position the barb insert at the hose end, clamp the assembly in the tool, and squeeze the handles to drive the barb fully into the hose bore. This controlled press applies even force across the insert, seating it straight and to the proper depth. Trying to hammer the insert in by hand often results in a crooked barb or one that isn't fully engaged, both of which can cause leaks or connection failures.... Read More