Hey all-

I am currently attending Oregon State University through the summer. They have a bike shop on campus with every tool imaginable, just about, and mechanics with free help at that. I was just wondering about any tools I should get for after I graduate. I do not want to spend a whole lot of money and I will more than likely not be truing wheels or hubs for now, but it will definitely be something I will be doing in the future. I probably just need the "essential" stuff. I typically just clean bottom brackets, wheels, and adjust braking, etc. I have yet to crack into a headset or bend back derailers or anything. So I guess is there a kit or tools that I should look into purchasing? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys,
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Sean

I think the general feeling is that tool kits are not ideal.

I buy them as I need them since they are not all universal. These are some essential IMO:

-A decent set of allen wrenches (metric and standard)
-A decent set of wrenches
-Screwdrivers (obviously)
-Crank removal tool
-Cone wrenches
-Bottom bracket lock ring spanner and a pin spanner
-Headset wrench
-A nice thin wall 15mm socket to remove crank bolts

I am sure there are many many more, essentials but I think those are some that I use the most.

good wire cutters are important.
When I brought my pair, I took a section of brake cable into the shop and tested them all out. The best ones were not from the bike section but from the hardware section of the shop.

What do you mean about hardware section if you don't mind me asking? Do you mean in the bike shop or in a hardware store?

I have been using a dremel cut-off wheel for housings but it would be nice to have a manual tool.

My local supermarket is both my local bikeshop and hardware store

That is very nice, unfortunately Ohio is a very different story. They like to place our stores miles away in different directions.

Get the best tools possible. And one-at-a-time. Get standard tools like screwdrivers and box-wrenches from Sears - Craftsman (lifetime warranty/replacement).

The kits offered have tools you'll never need. And there goes whatever money you thought you were saving.

+1 on the good cable cutters- cables have cut cheap cutters more often than cheap cutters have cut bicycle cable in my "career" as a traveling garage bike mechanic for kids. I've stopped asking, "Hey, do you have any wire/cable cutters?"

I always be sure to bring 'em.

A Dremel tool has a million uses.

A Work Stand, even the less expensive Park ones makes life easier.

I have Lowes brand "Kobalt" hand tools which carry the same kind of over the counter replacement warranty as Sears Craftsman. IMO they're just as good...I just don't live all that close to a Sears.


+1 for a good set of allen wrenches. Metric and Standard. Same with crescent wrenches and sockets. Get Metric and Standard.



And a Chain Link press! They are invaluable.

What would be a good place to pick up some spanners and bb tools? I pretty much have all the wrenches and allen tools necessary, but nothing else. I need to get a chain break tool, spanners, etc. Prices would be good too.

Cable-Cutters oh yeah! I paid through the nose back in 1984. Bought the Shimano cable-cutters. They were then the most expensive. I still have them - in perfect condition. Still merrily cutting cables & housing nice and clean. A great investment for a tool I never had to buy twice.

In my shop for chains I use, and swear by, the Park Tool CT-3.