9 Tools You Will Need for DIY Bike Repair and Maintenance

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If you're a handy man type of guy where you want to DIY all things related to your bike, you will most likely need these tools.


  1. A set of allen wrenches.

    • There are different types of allen wrenches in the market. There are the long handled types with ball end and there are the standard ones. I usually stay away from the ones in a key chain.
    • Most modern bikes have bolts that are allen type. Only few components are using flat and cross screws.
  2. Screw drivers

    • This is an essential part of your toolbox. You will usually need this for fine tuning your drivetrain. Most limit screws are cross type so it is best to keep a cross and slot type on hand.
    • Another type you will most likely need is the Torx type of screw driver. Rotor screws are usually of this type
  3. Lockring tool

    • Used to remove cassettes and shimano centerlock rotors.
  4. Chain Whip

    • Used to grab the cassette to prevent it from turning while removing the lock ring.
  5. Bottom Bracket Tool
    • Tool to remove outboard bottom brackets (eg. Shimano's Hollowtech) which is commonly used today.
    • Octalink type BBs will need another type of bottom bracket tool.
  6. Floor pump

    • For pumping those tires
  7. Pliers

    • Generally for any cutting or holding tasks
  8. Service stand
    • A simple bike stand will do.
    • You can opt to turn your bike upside down when no stand is available.
  9. Chain breaker/tool

    • Needed for doing drivetrain installation or maintenance.
With these tools, you mostly have all that you will need to install or service a bike component. These tools are relatively cheap and easily available from your local hardware stores or bike shops.

Give the task of press fitting your BB and headset to the pros. If you can afford to buy the press fitting tools, then go ahead and DIY.
Zefal shock pump
There are other tools you may need in servicing special parts. An example would be a shock pump. These tools will not be used commonly so you can just take your bike to a reputable shop when you need to use special tools.

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