Spanners
A six or eight inch adjustable spanner is
always handy to have around. You may also need combination and socket spanner,
the most common sizes that you're likely to use are 8mm,
9mm and 10mm. |
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Pliers &
Cable Cutters
Combination pliers have a cutting edge as well
as a gripping section, but there aren't generally
good enough to cut cables and tend to fray them so
as well as a pair of pliers, make sure you
get a decent set of cable cutters too.
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Ice Toolz Cable Cutter
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Cross
Head & Flat Blade Screwdrivers
Various bits and pieces will need a good old
screwdriver once in a while, but you'll mainly use
it for setting the limits on the front and rear derailleur.
A lot of multi-tools include both of these but due
to their size it can mean that certain parts are
only accessible with a full length screwdriver so
they are worth purchasing.
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Chain
Tool
Pretty much essential if you want to remove or
repair the chain. Just remember when using a chain tool
not to push the pin all the way out as it's a pain
in the ass to get back in. Rookie mistake!
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Topeak Super Chain Tool
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Puncture
Repair Kit (With Tyre Levers)
Absolutely essential, dead cheap though.
Tyre levers are often included in kits too.
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Puncture
Repair Kit
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Lubricants
If you want your bike to stay functional and
rust free then you'll need to invest in some
quality lubricant. GT-85 is great for driving out
water and is good for lubricating brake and mech
pivots but it's too light to use as a chain
lubricant. There are various different chain lubes
for different conditions, a recommended brand is
Finish Line.
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GT-85
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Finish Line Cross Country Lube
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Complete Tool Kit
If you are just starting out and don't have
many/any tools then you may as well buy a complete
tool kit, but it's only worth it if you are
planning on doing a lot of or all of your own
maintenance. There's no point splashing out on a
fancy kit if you're hardly going to use most of
the tools.
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Park
Advanced Mechanic Tool kit
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Park Mini
Tool Kit
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