Author Topic: Bike Tool Kit  (Read 3461 times)

Mega

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Bike Tool Kit
« on: August 15, 2017, 06:53:40 PM »
Hey Bikers, Could you recommend a good bike tool kit from Amazon?

All i have are the tools to change a tire, and I will need to change chains, etc. (Already past 400km commuting to work!)


FLBiker

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #1 on: August 16, 2017, 01:49:36 PM »
My kit looks a lot like this one (and I've been happy with it) BUT I got it at Aldi and paid $20 (which may pre-dispose me to being happier with it).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N0SFTJY/


Optimiser

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #2 on: August 17, 2017, 10:16:53 PM »
I have had that exact kit for 10+ years and have been very happy with it considering the price. The chain tool did eventually break on me.

bortman

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #3 on: August 20, 2017, 08:49:37 AM »
I have the Crank Brothers 19 function.

https://www.amazon.com/Crank-Brothers-Multi-Bicycle-19-Function/dp/B003YMYX5E

It isn't super easy to use, but it has just about everything one could need.

I also have a Lezyne high pressure mini pump. It's the only mini pump I've found that actually works, and small enough to fit in a large-ish seat bag.

https://www.amazon.com/Lezyne-Pressure-Drive-Bicycle-High-Polish/dp/B005YPQQ6S/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1503240353&sr=1-2&keywords=lezyne%2Bhigh%2Bpressure%2Bpump&th=1&psc=1

Both have saved me several times.

Debts_of_Despair

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #4 on: August 21, 2017, 10:19:01 AM »
Are you trying to buy a multi tool for shop maintenance (you mention replacing a chain)?  I wouldn't recommend that. I would suggest buying the dedicated shop tools as you need them.  Park Tool is the best with a price to match but they will last several lifetimes.
« Last Edit: August 21, 2017, 10:21:17 AM by Debts_of_Despair »

GuitarStv

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #5 on: August 21, 2017, 10:42:50 AM »
Are you trying to buy a multi tool for shop maintenance (you mention replacing a chain)?  I wouldn't recommend that. I would suggest buying the dedicated shop tools as you need them.  Park Tool is the best with a price to match but they will last several lifetimes.

+1

Only get the stuff you need, as you need them*.

You mention needing to change a chain.  You'll need to shorten your new chain, so will need a chain tool (I've got a park tools mini brute for this).  KMC and SRAM chains use quick links which can be opened just with pliers in a pinch, Shimano chains require that you keep a quantity of replacement pins on hand and will use your chain tool to reconnect.

*With the caveat that every cyclist should carry a multi-tool.  It will eventually get you out of jams if you know how to use it.  It should have a spoke wrench, allen keys, a chain tool, and a small slot screwdriver at a minimum.  These tools are for emergencies, and should be used rarely.

Bakari

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #6 on: August 21, 2017, 11:50:13 AM »
My kit looks a lot like this one (and I've been happy with it) BUT I got it at Aldi and paid $20 (which may pre-dispose me to being happier with it).
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N0SFTJY/


I got the same kit from Bike Nashbar some 20+ years ago, fixed all my friends and neighbors bikes, and eventually landed a job at a bike shop.  Kit was stolen, didn't need it anymore though.  10 years at the shop, moved on - and so, not having access to shop tools, bought the (updated version of the) same kit again.  Never had anything break or any problems with it.  Def not close to Park tool quality, but the difference in price is worth it

bortman

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Re: Bike Tool Kit
« Reply #7 on: August 22, 2017, 07:11:10 AM »
Good points about shop vs multi-tools. When the op mentioned commuting I assumed they were looking for a portable kit.

I agree with GuitarStv that it is good to acquire the tools you need as you need them. That said, the amazon link that FLBiker posted looks like it covers most of the basics for a reasonable price. However, some of those tools look a little cheap.

For example, that ring-shaped spoke wrench has sizes that you'll likely never need, and it's form is such that it lends itself to stripping spoke nipples (at least for me). I went with this a Park triangle style and have used it for many years.

As well, I get frustrated with the L-shaped allen keys and use a 3-way allen wrench 90% of the time. Similar to this one.

Lastly, those little driver bits are super annoying to me. I prefer to use real drivers when I can.