13 Bike Repair Tools Every Cyclist Needs

13 Bike Repair Tools Every Cyclist Should Own

Home bike repair has gotten complicated with all the specialized tools flying around. As someone who used to call bike shops for every little issue — flat tires, squeaky brakes, loose bolts — I learned everything there is to know about DIY maintenance after getting tired of waiting for appointments. Today, I’ll share the tools that actually matter.

The Must-Haves

1. Multi-Tool

A good cycling multi-tool has hex keys (4mm, 5mm, 6mm are most common), a chain breaker, screwdrivers, and sometimes tire levers. I keep one in my saddle bag for trailside fixes and one at home. Look for one with the sizes that fit your bike’s bolts.

2. Floor Pump with Gauge

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. You can’t maintain proper tire pressure with a mini pump. A floor pump with an accurate gauge is essential. Check tire pressure before every ride — it drops over time and affects performance and flat risk.

3. Tire Levers

Getting tight tires off rims is nearly impossible without levers. Get plastic ones that won’t damage your rims. Three is the magic number for stubborn tires.

4. Chain Lube

A dry, squeaky chain shifts poorly and wears fast. Keep lube on hand and use it every few rides or after wet conditions. Wet lube for rain, dry lube for fair weather.

5. Chain Checker

That’s what makes this tool endearing to us budget-conscious riders — it saves money. Chains stretch over time. A worn chain destroys your cassette and chainrings. A simple chain checker tool tells you when to replace — much cheaper than replacing the whole drivetrain later.

6. Torque Wrench

Carbon components crack if over-tightened. Stems, seatposts, bars — all have specific torque specs. A basic torque wrench prevents expensive mistakes.

7. Cable Cutters

Household scissors destroy brake and shift cables. Proper cable cutters make clean cuts that thread through housing properly.

8. Brush Set

For cleaning drivetrain, cassette, and hard-to-reach spots. A set with different sizes handles most cleaning tasks.

9. Degreaser

Water alone won’t remove built-up chain grime. Bike-specific degreaser cleans without damaging seals or paint.

10. Spoke Wrench

For minor wheel truing. Won’t replace a professional wheel build, but handles small wobbles between shop visits.

11. Cassette Lockring Tool

Needed to remove your rear cassette for cleaning or replacement. Cheap and essential if you do your own maintenance.

12. Chain Whip

Works with the lockring tool to hold the cassette while loosening. Without it, the cassette just spins.

13. Work Stand

Not essential but makes everything easier. Holding the bike at working height beats bending over or flipping it upside down. Even a basic stand improves the repair experience significantly.