Essential Bike Tools For The Commuter
Portable tools
As we already mentioned, the absolute #1 Must-Have tool for any bike commuter is the flat repair kit, and it’s important that you know how to use it, so that you’re never stranded half-way through your commute.
In addition, you basic portable tool arsenal should contain the following items:
Portable folding bicycle multi-tool. Such a tool will usually include a flat head and phillips screwdriver and several sizes of metric allen wrenches. 4, 5 and 6mm allen wrenches will handle most of the basic bike needs, such as seat adjustment, loose water-bottle and rack bolts and more. More complex kits include chain breakers, torques tools and even bottle openers, but a basic <$20 kit will do the job.
Bicycle-specific chain oil. You don’t have to carry it with you, but if you are assembling a portable bike kit, a small, securely closed bottle of oil will usually fit easily in the bag and be handy whenever you need it. We love Dumonde Tech bike oil, which cleans your chain as it lubricates, and creates a nice, slippery coating with repeated use. The optional needle attachment makes application easier.
For any bike not equipped with quick release wheels, you should carry a metric wrench for removing the axle nuts in the event of a flat. On many bikes, a 15mm metric wrench is what’s needed (here’s a nifty one with built-in tire lever), or:
Carry an adjustable wrench if the two wheels have differently sized axle nuts. Be careful not to strip the nuts when using and adjustable wrench.
For wiping your chain or your hands, carry along a rolled up microfiber cloth.
Home use tools
If you have space in your home or garage to set up a small bike workshop, you can start with some basic equipment, and build on it as your needs expand.
A floor pump is a must for any bike owner, commuter or not. It’s vastly more efficient and easier to use than a portable pump. Even an inexpensive <$40 bike pump will come with a dual nozzle to handle both Schrader and Presta valves, and a gauge to ensure you inflate the tires to correct pressure.
Regular drivetrain lubrication will likely keep you from having to give your chain an actual bath. But if you do need to wash your chain, use a bike degreaser or household detergent, hot water, and:
A stiff nylon bristle gear brush.
An optional but very handy upgrade to your home workshop is a portable repair stand, which supports the bike, and allows the cranks and wheels to spin, while you work on it.
