Panthers007

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I'll believe it when I see it!

noglider 

That was weird.

.

Panthers007

WOW!!

Anyone need cable-cutters? Grab these FAST!

Crabster

Whats the difference between the CT10 and CT11 cable cutters?

Panthers007

The CT11 is the newer version. But I can't see any notable difference from the CT10 I've had since 1984. Which are sitting in front of me.

johnknappcc

Different handles, all black (I think they are supposed to be a bit easier on the hands, but I don't have any comparison, just what they said where I bought them).

Other than that . . . cables and housings still cower in fear.

noglider 

I thought I read that the Shimano cutter is not suitable for housings. Not true?

Jasmijo

This is a really helpful thread. Does anyone have any recommendations for a good pump (with gauge) or bike stand?

froze

A minimum tool set? A real minimum tool set would just to buy a mini tool like the Park MTB3, plus you get the added bonus of being able to take it with you. I have one along with a bunch of bike tools and I've found myself using the MTB3 more then the other stuff for minor adjustments and repairs. You can always buy a mini then when the need arises for another tool that the mini doesn't have then you buy that tool...one tool at a time as you need it that way your not wasting money on tools you may never use like you get with a tool set. A lot of work on bikes can be done with common house hold tools anyways.

As far as pumps go that's an open end subject based on personal experience. But if you do a search for pumps on the discussion board here you will find a vast resource. Mostly Topeak Morph is mentioned to be the best, Lezyne high pressure drive mini also gets nods, both of those pumps have a hose which is less likely to damage your valve stem if you never used a direct connected pump before; though I have the SKS WESE Carbon which I really like but it's a direct connected style pump. But be careful when buying mini pumps, the companies brag about their pumps are capable of reaching 160psi or some such number and in general you can expect no more then half that!! And some mini's will require 500 to 600 strokes to get to 80!!!! So the two that I mentioned with the hose are probably you best all around choices.

Luke1977

I just started wrenching on bikes again after a number of years bike-less. I spent about $50 on tools specific for my bike ('82 Trek 613). That included a crank remover, pin spanner, c spanner, a pair of cone wrenches, and the freewheel remover tool for my freewheel (Suntour 2-notch). I also already have a bike multitool with spoke wrenches and chain tool. So now I can overhaul my BB & hubs myself. Not sure what the typical LBS charges for a BB/hub service & regrease, but I'm reasonably certain these tools have already paid for themselves after the first use. I already had a decent set of mechanics tools (wrenches, hex wrenches, pliers, etc.). I plan on picking up additional tools as the need for them arise. This way the cost is spread out and I don't end up with tools I'll never use.

Panthers007

Sorry it's taken so long to get back to this question. I was called away to wage a guerrilla war.

The Shimano cable-cutters most certainly do handle housing - regular or SIS.

Regards the differences between the 10 and 11 - the photo shows the same gray and blue grips on the 11 as are on my 10's. But this doesn't even matter - they are the best out there - though I hear the Felco's are as good.

Greg_R

I have a Topeak Joe Blow Pro and really enjoy using it... zero problems. For on the bike I carry a Topeak Road Morph and haven't had any problems (up to 90psi though, haven't tried HP tires). As for a stand, I use an existing workbench in my shop + a frame clamp. This is much cheaper than a dedicated stand.

I agree with the 'buy as needed' thoughts. I would suggest that you look at a metric hex socket set + metric socket set + socket wrench (3/8" drive). This will allow you to use the sockets with a torque wrench (if you ever need one). It will also allow you to get a good bit of leverage on the fastener (vs dealing with tiny hex keys). Other tools that you will need immediately:

- tire levers (plastic, not metal exterior)
- air pump capable of pumping high pressures
- patch kit
- Shop / mechanic towels (for cleaning off the bike & your hands)
- Bike cleaning and lubing supplies

wunderkind

The only tools I added so far for bike maintenance is a chain link breaker, crank puller (most folks don't need it) and a few more allen/hex tool. Oh and tire levers.

noglider 

I have the Joe Blow AND the Specialized. I like the Specialized slightly better. It has a head that works with Presta and Schrader valves without any fiddling. It just grabs right onto either valve. Very nice.

I keep the Joe Blow in my car and the Specialized in by basement bike shop.

johnknappcc

So true, the housings are nearly perfect after a cut . . . the 11's do have the black handles, the store's selling them like the older blue/gray combo haven't updated their product photos. I thought the blue/gray combo did look a bit cooler. Maybe they are trying to stay away from blue for some reason , hmmmm.

noglider 

I ruined my own chances for getting that amazing price on the Shimano cable cutters. Niagara no longer offers them. Did anyone get a pair from them? I really need cable cutters, but I couldn't bear to spend that much money, even though I know it will pay off in the long run. So I bought a pair of Pedro's. I haven't tried them yet, but I figure they'll serve me well enough for now.

Jasmijo

I have what may be a stupid question about floor pumps... If I need only 120psi, would a pump rated for 160psi or higher make the job quicker and easier than a pump with a 120psi max?

noglider 

I don't think it's a dumb question, because I don't know the answer. My guess is that it doesn't help, but you never know when you might need it. I have a tire with a gash in the sidewall, so I made a boot for the inside. To test the tire, I inflated it to 150 and saw that it holds.

Do such pumps cost more? I'd say get a pump rated to at least 130 psi.

Panthers007

noglider - now you have cable-cutters that likely will die on you - or do a crud job after a little use. Then you will need better cable-cutters. Do the math. Even when not on sale, the Shimanos' are this thing called 'best.' Many of the Pedro's tools I've seen are actually Harbor-Fright, just branded as Pedro's. Just like Park Tool's digital caliper, re-branded and sold for $35 - $50. While the exact same digital calipers can be found brand-new for around $10 or $12 on Amazon.com.*

Best of luck.

* And these cheap DC's are actually very accurate. I ran them up against my my fancy, old-school dial calipers which are truly certified to make legal reading, and they passed with shining colors.

noglider 

I know the math, and I generally like high quality tools. I didn't know Pedro's is cheap stuff, though. I did learn my lesson with Harbor Freight, though. I bought their cable cutters, which are an absolute scam. The jaws are made of soft metal. Those cutters weren't even designed to work! Bastards.

I can't make long term investments now. I'm desperately underemployed currently. I figured $25 cutters would last a year. I hope they last longer than the Harbor Freight cutters.

johnknappcc

I got mine a few months ago (The 11's) for even cheaper, someone always has a special on them (and I got a price match from another company), but it can still be tricky finding them. Keep googling/amazoning/etc.

I would just look around . . . I'll send you a link if I can find some.

noglider 

Thank you, but I'll make do with my Pedro's for now. I've used them a few times now, and they're fine. Maybe they won't last as long as the Shimanos but they do work properly. The Harbor Freight cutters were utter trash. They should be ashamed of themselves.

jamesuh

You can save some bucks if you get it through Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Zinn-Art-Road-...0458309&sr=8-7

kaseri

I bought tools as I needed them. Thats the way to do it.

Crabster

Yeah I got a pair of the CT11's from Niagara. They have black handles. For the price I figured why not and put them in the tool box.