HOME MECHANIC TOOL LIST
Maintaining your own bike can be fun, but it can also be confusing at times to know which tools you will need to perform the service you want. Below are a series of recommended tool lists for general maintenance of the average road or off-road bike. Attempt to develop two sets of tools: one for inside a seat bag for on-the-trail/road use, and another set for home use.
NOVICE TOOL LIST
Because these lists are for “average” bikes, your particular bike may need more, less, or slightly different tools than what is listed here. For example, if your bike has a “threadless” headset, you will not need the headset wrench listed for threaded headsets. When in doubt, bring your bike to a professional bike shop and ask about a specific procedure or tool.
There are several sources of tools. Non-bicycle specific tools are usually available at better hardware stores, automotive shops, tool stores, and some department stores. Check with your local bike shop for specialty bicycle tools.
Besides being capable of performing the services of fixing a flat tire, lubricating the chain, and cleaning the bike, you want to be able to do things like replace the chain, gear cables and housing. You may want to get the wheels straight and true enough to clear the brake pads, and have the brakes adequately adjusted. Other repairs, such as bearing overhaul or derailleur replacement, we assume will be done by a professional bicycle shop.
| TOOL DESCRIPTION | MORE INFORMATION | |
|---|---|---|
| Bicycle Repair Stand | Repair stands lift the bike off of ground and allows bike to be rotated for easy work. | |
| Metric Wrenches, esp. 8, 9, 10, 11mm | ||
| Hex Wrench Set | ||
| Screwdriver Set | Used to adjust derailleur limit screws | |
| Needle Nose Pliers | 6″ needle nose | |
| 12″ Adjustable Wrench | ||
| HUB TOOLS | ||
| Cone Wrench, 13–14mm | Common sizes for front hubs and some hub locknuts | |
| Cone Wrench, 15–16mm | Common sizes for rear hubs and some hub locknuts | |
| WHEEL AND TIRE TOOLS | ||
| Spoke Wrenches | Many possible sizes and options. Select smallest size that fits. | |
| Tire Levers | Levers vary in design and fit | |
| Patch Kit | ||
| Floor Pump | Pump head fits both presta and schrader | |
| DRIVETRAIN TOOLS | ||
| Pedal Wrench | ||
| Chain Rivet Extractor | For removing old chains and installing new chains | |
| Drivetrain Cleaning Kit | ||
| Cable Cutters | Cuts both cable and housing |
MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES AND PARTS
| PART / SUPPLY | MORE INFORMATION |
|---|---|
| Shop Apron | |
| Bearing Grease | PSafe for suspension elastomers, ceramic bearings, and carbon fiber |
| Bicycle Cleaning Kit | |
| Chain lubrication | |
| Degreaser for chain and parts | |
| Hand Cleaner | Available from grocery and hardware stores |
| Alcohol | For cleaning brake surfaces and press fits |
| Polisher (glass cleaner) | For cleaning frames |
| Spare Tubes | Purchase to fit your tire size and valve type |
| Zip ties | Various sizes and colors |
| Rags | Lots and lots of cotton rags |
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