Damon’s Cycling ‘Top 12’ tools
Over the years of being a Cycle Guide, Cycling Events Manager & Cycle Mechanic I have had the great fortune of working on, and test-riding hundreds of bikes using dozens of different tools and equipment. I have also tried and tested more items of clothing, gadgets and accessories than most people fondle in a lifetime!
Here are a few stand-out tool choices that I can strongly recommend:
Park Tool CT-6.3 folding portable chain tool
Works with 5 - 11-speed chains and thanks to its Fold-Out Peening Anvil, this is one of the only portable Chain Tools that can re-join a Campagnolo 11-Speed Chain
Pedro’s Tyre Levers
Strong and dependable - every mechanics favourite
Beta 951 Sliding T-Handle Wrenches
Used by more professional mechanics than any other hex key ideally 4mm to 10mm range
Vessel Megadora 900 JIS P2-100
You’d be forgiven for assuming older Shimano limit screws have a Phillips head but, in reality, they’ve always been JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard), which require a subtly different screwdriver tip design for the best possible fit.
PB Swiss Tools PB 205 Series Classic Screwdriver Hex
classic hex drivers in 2mm, 2.5mm & 3mm for adjusting derailleur mechs and many other small fittings.
Felco C7
The Felco’s are amazing, if you want to buy just one cable cutting tool that will last a lifetime then buy these. The perfect cut every time!
Abbey Tools - Dual sided Crombie Tool and Chain Whip
The crombie tool stores inside the whip handle. The Crombie tool is a game changer when it comes to swapping cassettes. Whether you're a professional mechanic swapping cassettes several times a day or a DIY kind of guy this gem has a place on your tool bench
ELVEDES 2016093 ENDCAP CRIMPING TOOL
For perfectly crimped cables that have 4 bite points and will NOT fall off!
Silca Italian Army Knife Venti (20 Function Multi-Tool)
literally, one tool that does it all!
Park Tool Adjustable Torque Driver ATD-1.2
Adjustable: 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 or 6Nm of torque for the seat post and handle bars
Includes: 3, 4, 5mm and T25 bits stored in the handle
Abbey Tools - Derailleur Hanger Alignment Gauge (HAG)
The Abbey Bike Tools Hanger Alignment Gauge (HAG) is a stupendously accurate (and commensurately expensive) way to ensure your rear mech is given the best possible chance of achieving shifting nirvana. Relatively small, light and rebuildable, it really is 'The last hanger tool you'll ever have to buy'.
Abbey Bike tools - Team Issue Titanium Hammer
The Abbey Bike Tools Team Issue range has been designed with the demanding specifications of professional mechanics in mind. Super lightweight to aid with the rush of Grand Tour transfers, and tough enough for the endless, year-round servicing of a fleet of team bikes, these tools are a luxury option for the mechanics who demand the absolute best from their equipment. With a superlight construction that comes in at just 265 grams, this Titanium Hammer is a precise instrument that allows for total control.
The hammer also benefits from an ESI silicone grip that helps cushion the impacts from the all-metal construction. The soft rubber facing, meanwhile, is easily and readily replaceable, making this a tool you can keep on using for years.