8 Essential Bike Tools for the Cycling Enthusiast

Whether you're looking to blow off some steam or increase your cardiovascular fitness, beginner and advanced cyclists alike should savor the simplicity of cycling. When you're in the zone, it's just you, your bike, and the great outdoors whizzing by.

That said, there are a few things to have on hand if you want to keep your bike in tip-top shape and ensure you don't encounter any technical difficulties on your next ride. Ready to bulk up your collection of bike tools? Here are eight essential bike tools that are for both new and seasoned cyclists alike.

A bike stand

If you own a bike, you should own a bike stand. It's that simple.

A reliable stand provides you a way to anchor your bicycle upright while you make repairs. It also eliminates the need to prop your trusty bike on a nearby wall or lay it horizontally, which can cause it to become dirty or damaged.

A combination wrench set

You never know when you will need to adjust your drivetrain or change a set of worn-out brake pads. With a trusty wrench set, you'll be prepared for whatever curveballs the road or trail throws at you.

A couple of screwdrivers

Many maintenance duties call for a good old-fashioned screwdriver. A screwdriver will help any cyclist in a pinch, from fine-tuning your derailleur to realigning your brake calipers.

Not all screws are made alike, so be sure to keep both a flat-head and a Phillips-head in your gear bag.

A chain tool

A bike chain tool is the only way to put on, take off, or adjust the tension of a chain on a fixed-gear cycle. It's a good idea to get one and learn your way around it before running into unforeseen chain-related issues.

A tube patch kit

While it's generally best to replace a ruptured inner tube rather than repair it, sometimes you don't have that luxury. In that case, an inexpensive patching kit can be a day-saver, literally and figuratively.

A bicycle pump

Tire pressure can be the difference between a smooth, easy ride you wish would never end and a grueling slog you regret you ever started. There's no point in patching a tube or tire if you don't have a way to fill it up afterward, so pack a portable pump.

A 3-way wrench

No matter how much you enjoy working on your bike, you'll eventually get sick of twisting away at stubborn hex bolts. One of the essential bike tools that can save you time and frustration is a three-way wrench.

A chain scrubber

A chain scrubber is designed for effortless cleaning. It also takes most of the difficulty and ick-factor out of cleaning and lubricating your bike's chain (which you should do every 150 miles or so). They're surprisingly affordable and more fun to use than you think.

Wrap-Up

Whether you're a certifiable cycling fanatic or you just bought your first bike, having the right tools at your disposal is non-negotiable.

These eight essential bike tools will keep you road-ready and equip you to handle the sorts of common mechanical hiccups that are likely to occur during an intense pedaling session.