All the Tools You Need for Bicycle Maintenance

Be ready to take care of your bike with this checklist of all the essential tools you’ll need. Whether you have a repair to do now or you just want to be prepared, here are the must-haves to get you started:

The Basics

These are the tools that cover the most common repairs and adjustments you’ll need to keep your adult bike or your kid’s bike running:

Allen keys (hex wrenches)

Allen keys are used for tightening or loosening hex bolts, which are found on nearly every part of the bike. They’re L-shaped with hexagonal ends. With such tools, you can adjust everything from seat clamps and brake levers to derailleurs with precision.

Screwdriver (flathead and Philipps)

These are the standard screwdrivers with flat or cross-shaped heads. They’re great for fine-tuning components, like adjusting derailleur limit screws or tweaking clamps.

Tyre levers

As the name suggests, these are designed to help you pry tyres off the rim. They’re essential for changing or repairing inner tubes, as tyres can be tricky to remove by hand.

You can skip the levers if you’re confident doing it manually, but it’s always good to have a pair on hand, just in case.

Patch kit

This kit is mainly for repairing punctures in your bike’s inner tube. It includes patches to cover and seal the hole, glue to bond the patch, sandpaper or a metal scraper to ensure better adhesion, and a handy instruction guide for proper use.

With a patch kit, you can get a quick fix that gets you back on the road without needing a spare tube. Follow these step-by-step guides on ‘How to Fix a Flat Bicycle Tyre’ for reference.

Pump

You won’t get far with flat tyres, so a pump is essential. Go for a portable hand pump that you can carry with you, maybe in a pannier bag, along with your patch kit. It’s a real lifesaver if you get a flat mid-ride.

Chain tool (breaker)

A chain tool, or breaker, is a small gadget used to remove or reconnect chain links. Having one in your toolkit means you can sort out snapped chains or make adjustments without visiting a shop.

Multitool

Don’t get caught unprepared, and be ready to handle adjustments or minor repairs on the go with a multitool that works for various parts of your bike. A good one will have a range of hex keys in different sizes, all in a compact design, so you won’t need to lug around standard tools that can be bulky and heavy. Some even include screwdrivers and a chain tool, which is brilliant if you want everything in one place.

Bike stand

A bike stand keeps your bike upright and stable, making maintenance or repairs much easier. There are portable ones, too, so you can take them on your rides. Once you’ve got one, you’ll wonder how you managed without it!

Bike Cleaning Tools: Lubricants and Cleaners

On top of the tools I mentioned earlier, you’ll want to grab these bike care essentials. They’ll help your bike run better and save you money down the line by stopping you from having to replace parts or pay for expensive repairs.

Degreaser

A degreaser is used to clean off built-up grime, oil, and dirt, especially on the chain and drivetrain. While it’s not exactly a ‘tool’, it’s a cleaning agent that comes in handy for tools like your chain cleaner or brushes. For instance, a degreaser with a cleaning chain tool helps you get rid of the build-up gunk much easier.

Grease

There are parts of your bike that will need this to keep them moving, prevent water ingress, and stop them from seizing up. This includes things like your bottom bracket, headset, and pedal threads. A bit of grease on these bits helps them work properly and stops rust or wear, so it’s worth having on hand.

Chain lube

This lubricant is used to maintain the chain and other moving parts. There are essentially two types: wet and dry lube.

Wet chain lube is best for damp and muddy conditions, as it’s thicker and stickier. Dry chain lube, in contrast, is lighter and less sticky and is best to use for dry, dusty conditions. You could have both and take whichever one suits the weather and terrain you’ll be cycling on.

Up next on your reading list: Bike Maintenance: How to Oil a Chain