It’s important to have the right tools on hand for your bike. Then you can be ready for routine emergency repairs. Like a flat tire or snapped chain. You can do maintenance at home or on-the-go. So here are eight must-have tools and what to use them for.
1. Multi-Tool
A multi-tool is a cyclist’s best friend. It has different tools for different purposes. Like Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, and even a chain breaker. Use it for common adjustments and repairs. You can easily fit it in your pocket or gear bag.
2. Torque Wrech
Adjusting bolts on different parts of your bike requires a torque wrench. You have them on the handlebars, fork, brake levers, shifters and more. This tool ensures you use just the right amount of force with no damage.
3. Spoke Wrench
You need a spoke wrench for wheel truing. That’s when you adjust spoke tension to get rid of side to side or up and down movement. So it runs perfectly straight. You just have to find the problem areas and tighten those spokes accordingly.
4. Chain Checker
When your chain wears out, you deal with poor shifting and extra wear on drivetrain parts. A chain checker helps you assess its condition. Then you can replace it before it causes more serious damage.
5. Cable Cutters
The cables or housing will wear down and must be replaced. That’s when you need cable cutters. They’ll make clean, precise cuts with no fraying. Once you install a new set, you’re back to smooth shifting and braking.
6. Tire Lever
Every cyclist has to deal with a flat tire. A tire lever makes it easy to remove and replace it without damaging the rim or puncturing the tube. This is a lightweight and inexpensive tool you can take on the go.
7. Bike Pump
A bike pump adds air to under-inflated tires. Make sure you buy one that works with your valve tump. You can also buy a portable version to use on the go. Because a flat can happen anytime, anywhere.
8. Bike Stand
This isn’t a tool, but it makes any bike maintenance easier. You use it to hold up your ride at a more comfortable height to work on the chain, wheels, cables and more.
Get Your Bike Serviced Here at Airpark Bike Co
Airpark Bike Co is the best place for emergency and routine cycling service. Come to us for a broken chain, a bent derailleur hanger, or a flat tire. We can fix whatever’s wrong with your travel companion. You can buy full bikes, replacement parts, and riding gear from us, too. Anything you need for mountain, road, or gravel cycling!