ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU NEED, THAT I USE EVERYDAY IN MY BIKE SHOP with GC Performance
Source: GC Performance Youtube Channel: ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU NEED, THAT I USE EVERYDAY IN MY BIKE SHOP
Video ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU NEED, THAT I USE EVERYDAY IN MY BIKE SHOP with GC Performance
Video ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU NEED, THAT I USE EVERYDAY IN MY BIKE SHOP with GC Performance YouTube Channel.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS YOU NEED, THAT I USE EVERYDAY IN MY BIKE SHOP
As a skilled bike shop mechanic, there are certain essential tools that I use every single day to maintain and repair different types of bikes. These tools are not only crucial for me in the bike shop, but they are also valuable for anyone who loves working on bicycles in their garage. In this article, I will share with you my top five essential tools that I use regularly, along with a bonus tool that is a must-have for anyone who frequently changes tires. Whether you work on road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, or even e-bikes, these tools are versatile and practical for all types of bikes.
## Essential Tool #1: Allen Key Set
The first essential tool in my arsenal is an Allen Key set, preferably a y-shaped wrench. This tool is equipped with all the common sizes needed for standard bikes, including road bikes and mountain bikes. The 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen keys are incredibly versatile and can be used for various tasks such as adjusting accessories, seat height, and fixing flat tires. For custom bike builds, I prefer the Silca Allen key set, which offers a wider range of attachments, including T8, T10, T15, T20, T25, T30, Phillips head, and Flathead. These tools are essential for tightening components without causing damage, and their ergonomic design makes them a pleasure to use.
## Essential Tool #2: Chain Whip and Lock Ring Removal Tool
The chain whip and lock ring removal tool are indispensable when it comes to bike maintenance. These tools allow me to efficiently remove the cassette from the wheel for deep cleaning and major tune-ups. While traditional chain whips are effective, I opt for 3D printed titanium versions for their lightweight and ease of use. Additionally, a master link remover for a chain tool is a valuable add-on that allows for quick and convenient chain removal and cleaning.
## Essential Tool #3: Park Tool Picks
The Park Tool picks are among my favorite tools due to their versatility and precision. With three different tips, including a straight point, a crooked bend, and a 90° angle, these picks are ideal for tasks such as fixing flat tires, removing glass or plastic debris, and handling integrated handlebars. The addition of magnets on the tips makes it easy to grab and manipulate components, making these picks indispensable for various bike maintenance tasks.
## Essential Tool #4: Park Tool IR-1.2 Internal Routing Kit
As bikes become more integrated and feature internal cable and hydraulic brake routing, the Park Tool IR-1.2 Internal Routing Kit becomes an essential tool. This kit provides all the attachments needed to guide hydraulic lines, gear cables, or brake cables through the intricate internal channels of modern bike frames. The magnetic and color-coded components make it easy to navigate through dark frame spaces, making this kit a lifesaver for any bike mechanic, regardless of experience level.
## Essential Tool #5: Park Tool PP-1.2 Disc Brake Pad Spreader
An often overlooked but incredibly valuable tool is the Park Tool PP-1.2 Disc Brake Pad Spreader. This tool comes to the rescue when hydraulic disc brake pads become misaligned due to accidental brake engagement when the wheel is removed from the bike. This spreader allows for the quick and easy realignment of the brake pads without the need to disassemble the entire brake system, saving time and frustration for both mechanics and bike owners.
## Bonus Essential Tool: High-Quality Tire Lever
Changing tires is an everyday task for me, and having a high-quality tire lever is essential for the job. I recommend investing in a durable and reliable tire lever such as the Cool Stop tire lever, which is sturdy, comfortable to use, and unlikely to break under pressure. A good tire lever is a must-have for anyone who frequently changes tires on their own or for others.
In conclusion, these essential tools are the backbone of my daily work as a bike shop mechanic. Whether I’m working on road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrids, or e-bikes, these tools are versatile, practical, and invaluable for maintaining and repairing bicycles. If you’re passionate about working on bikes, investing in these tools will make your efforts more efficient and enjoyable. If you have any questions about these tools or want to share your own favorite bike shop essentials, feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading and happy wrenching!
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel GC Performance and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
