I find it handy to wrap a length of bungie cord around my stem or top tube. It can be handy to have something to secure the bike (on a train etc) or tie something to your bike at a pinch.
A month ago I took part in my first cycling race. The day before the event I went and collected the start numbers and I was approached by someone who said "Hey! You have the same bike model as me - do you by any chance have a spare rear derailleur hanger?". His broke a few days before the race and (thanks to you emphasising how important it is to have a spare) I could even help him out and save his race. He was so relieved and happy and that is thanks to you ;)
You also want extra derailleur hangers because, at some time or another, the manufacturer is going to stop producing them. It is really amazing that in a matter of five years some frame manufacturers stop producing essential parts for your frame, making the frame totally useless.
If you buy a cheap multi-tool with chain breaker, make sure it will actually fit your chain! Many older chain tools have driving pins that are made for 9/10 speed chains and won't fit the smaller diameter of 11/12 speed chains. I learned this the hard way.
Good info. As a former emergency tech. The bracelet is your best choice. A necklace can come off, the note slips out of your helmet and in an emergency we don't have time to search your bags. On my bracelet I have my name, emergency contact, allergy/epi pen and blood type (if you know it) Cheers and thanks for your videos
I use a bracelet as I take a med but I also got some stickers ICE fhst add all the info you need to a QR code on my helmet and one on the bike. It has my ICE contacts and my meds
Spare valve cores and a valve core removal tool. It’s amazing how often a slow puncture is actually a loose valve core. Also its not uncommon to snap a valve core off when pumping up s presta style valve.
Recumbent bike was going perfectly...there's 3 pumping stations (With chained tools also) on that bike path...why not, the front tire can use a few pumps of air. Lean the bike on the post and started pumping...on the 3rd pump the bike fell and the Presta valve stem snapped off. FANTASTIC!!!...now had to change the used-to-be fine inner tube out...GRRR.
One additional tip about torque wrenches. Make sure you get one that reads the applied torque in both the clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. Not all torque wrenches do this. But since some of the fasteners on a bike are "reverse threaded/left hand threaded" you need a bi-directional torque wrench.
I used to carry a multitool (with chain-breaker), but found that all the tools were difficult to use. Swapping to individual tools increased the weight a bit, but made everything easier - and you can leave out anything you don't need.
If you have a carbon frame carbon paste is a must and I highly agree a torque wrench is a must especially with carbon. I carry an extra derailleur hanger only on my mountain bike. A good tip is if you break a derailleur and carry a chain breaker like you said you can always make it a single speed it sure beats walking. I also carry a spare tube on my mountain bike even though its tubeless just in case a hole is too big. Its also a good idea to have some kind of spoke wrench to tighten one or remove a broken spoke. Very important on the lines of the bracelet is to program ice (in case of emergency) into your cell phone. Anyone can call ice even if your phone is locked.
I always carry a small first-aid kit; not necessarily for myself, but you never know what you might come across out there on the road, especially in group rides. Micropore tape is very useful, a couple of proper calico triangular bandages - not those God-awful flimsy plastic mesh type things - can be used in a multitude of different ways, and I always take a few sticking plasters for smaller wounds or, if you need it, you can stick a few of them across a long straight cut and pull it back together like you would do with steri-strips. I used to be a First-Aid Instructor, and you can treat any single injury in the book with only three triangular bandages.
A few ideas: one essential you should always have when you ride is and LED blinky light you can attach to your seat post. If you're carrying a spare derailleur hanger, double check what kind of mounting hardware it uses. I have an older Cannondale that use a couple of very tiny bolts to mount it. Make sure your multi-tool has the proper bits for it! Some newer bikes have been shifting over to using Torx bolts. It's good to find out what the limits of your tools are. For tools at home, spend a little extra to get ball-end Allen wrenches. It makes it super easy to spin bolts in tight places (like those ones inside the bottle cage, or your fenders). There's a lot of good brands out there (PB Swiss, Bondhus). You can save some money by getting them from a tool store instead of a bike shop. Finally getting a cassette lockring tool and a chain whip is a good idea too. Cassettes are the #2 wear item on a bike after your chain.
100% agree with all of these. Just got a spare hanger today as I realized I never bought one with my new bike last November. I'd also suggest a patch kit if you're running tubes, a tire boot for super big tears/holes, some zip ties and flat folded duct/gaffer tape, and a CO2 inflator with spare cartridges. All in all, very solid advice and recommendations!
Great list!! One thing I added to my bike bag is a small first aid kit and a set of mechanics disposable gloves. Another hot tip is that when having to change a tire at home or on the ride, use some sort of strap, like either a bungie cord or a voile strap. It can go around the tire and rim to hold the tire bead onto the rim as you go around with the tire levers to get that last section of tire bead back on.
I've used speedier tyre lever from crankbrothers and it does the job for me. It is a bit bulky but quite easy to use and my road bike tyres are one of the stubborn ones to put on the rim. Also I keep some nitrile gloves in my saddle bag which keeps my hands clean during repairs.
Whenever I get a new bike I ***ALWAYS*** buy two spare rear mech hangers. I put one in my saddle bag and have one spare at home. Because when you need one you it will be out of stock or take ages to get another. Latex gloves and some wet wipes too. I also take spare speed links in 10, 11 and now 12 speed, just in case someone else is stuck without one.
Great list. No judging...lol. I would add to your list a rear light and a front light. I use both every time I ride where there might be traffic. Drivers are more distracted than ever and two years ago on consecutive days I had someone make a left hand turn (right for the Aussies) in front of me and I had to brake hard. So, I highly recommend both. For a rear light I use a blackburn with a fitting that will neatly fit on my arrow seat post (Felt AR FRD). The rubber fitting has a deep groove that the arrow seat post fits into perfectly. I was totally sick of having the light twist sideways and/or fall off. If you have an arrow seat post, this is a must. I also use a blackburn on the front. It mounts to the bottom of my cyclo-computer mount. Love both.
10 years of riding , wow, you're just a baby cyclist. In 50 years of riding, I have found Pedro's tire levers to be the closest thing to " best ". None are perfect. But Pedro's tire levers come in a variety of colors( black is easy to lose) Pedro's are large enough for your hands to actually hold on to. I've never had a Pedro lever fold over like cheap plastic. And Pedro's have multiple features molded right into them. Great video with a great list of items all cyclists should have. And torque wrenches are not just for carbon bikes. Simple steel against aluminum should be torqued with care just like carbon.
I've had some version of all of these for years and wouldn't be without them, except the ID bracelet. But I have a tag with contact #'s attached to my keyring which I always have with me which is just as good, plus an ICE # on my phone's lockscreen. But the other things are obvious must-haves. I really like the Crank Brothers Speed Lever tire iron. One thing I would like to see more of is the use of cycling gloves when riding outdoors, for all sorts of reasons but most of all safety if you crash. Absorbs some of the blow possibly preventing broken bones and protects the skin from abrasions and cuts.
If you do a lot of your own work, a set of T-handle allen wrenches is an even better upgrade. I've been fixing my bikes since the 80's and can't believe I didn't buy a set until recently. That Topeak Hexus you have is my favorite multitool, but I prefer the Pedro's levers. 3 or 4 small zip ties is good to keep in your seat bag. If a spoke breaks, you can secure it to the adjacent spoke and get home on it.
Alternatively to a T-handle allen wrench is to get a sliding T breakerbar in 1/4" drive, or a 1/4" breaker bar, and a set of metric hex bits, and a 3" 1/4 drive extension, and a 1/4" drive magnetic hex bit attachment. OR get Prestacycle T-Handle Ratchet, and a Wera 1/4 hex to 1/4" drive bit. This way you can build any size wrench you need. The Prestacycle company also sells a really nice chain breaker tool that works with the T-handle Ratchet. As for master links, Wolf Tooth Componets makes a cool master chain tool which you can store the master links in the handle. 711L EDC Torque Driver makes a nice compact torque driver. Silca the pump company also makes one that's a little longer.
Varia tail light. It is a must have every ride item for me. It’s so visible and notifies you when you have cars behind you. One of the greatest safety inventions I’ve seen for bicycles
Just want to echo this, it's one of the best bits of cycling tech I've gotten. Thought it was a bit of a gimmick at first but I won't ride without it now.
I've got those Wera allen keys and they are good, but they are loose and long. Also, the plastic sheath slips, but I fixed that by coating the inside of it with Impact Adhesive. You can get a "Gorilla Grip" set that's Bondhus in a penknife shaped tool that's amazingly cheap considering it's Bondhus... that tool (the red one, metric sizes 1.5mm - 6mm) is great for taking out with you. They are surprisingly robust and, just like the Alien III tool, the tightness of the tools can be tightened so it's not got any play, but is still possible to pull out. The Bondhus Gorilla Grip doesn't lock, but it does stop at around 90° and it's solid enough. They make other colours, but those other colours are American/Imperial sizes etc. Just get the red one! It was under a tenner when I last bought one, around 3 years back. It never leaves my handlebar bag. Chain breakers: The ones on multi-tools are crap. Get the "Cyclo" one - it looks like it's made from spare nuts - but I have broken at least 30 chains using that same Cyclo tool and it still works - many don't. My Alien III tool has a chain breaker and the Alien tool Katie has here also has that, but they aren't as robust as the Cyclo version. Speed links: What are those 😜 Missing links / Quick links... those are vital yes, and take up almost zero room or weight. I keep them in the little pocket of my Alien III. Chain link removal: You can get away without that tool when out and about, but if the chain links have "binded" (I've seen it) then yes you do need those pliers. It's a bulky thing to be taking out though and often, the links can be pushed together as long as you have some item of clothing to press the chain, so you're not using your bare fingers on it. A pump: I ended up swapping to solid tyres so no longer have to think about it, but if you're indoors with a track pump get a good one like a Birzman. If you're taking a pump out with you, the one I was last taking out (that is small, light, with a PSI gauge and pumps on the pull stroke as well as the push) is the "Topeak Road Morph G". They are about £30 or were when I last bought mine. Never let me down (albeit 60 PSI) and it's only about 1ft long. A spare rear mech hangar: I would have never thought about having that in the toolkit while out, but Katie of course that's such an obvious thing to take out... assuming you have the Gorilla Grip / Topeak Alien III tool too 😛The thing is, on the road, your rear mech is 100% safe. Surely this only applies to gravel/MTB riding? Maybe if you fall off on the road then the hangar could need replacing, but in that case you're going to be messed up (and the bike is) that it's hardly likely the only damaged thing would be the hangar. Regardless, it's under 10g so yes, it's something that should be included while out riding. Tyre levers: They need to be plastic. Yes they are needed. Katie you said yours are "going rusty" so they are metal? Urgh... don't use those, they will dent your rims, get plastic tyre levers. Torque wrench: Most of them are crap. The one I use the most, that's locked at 5 Nm... is the Ritchey Torque Key. It's not cheap (for what it is) at around £20 but I found that since buying it, I use it a great deal... front derailleur clamping to frame, FD and RD cables, brake cables... I mean my brake cables I do at 6 Nm but, with that Ritchey at 5 Nm I can use that and tighten a little more to guess what 6 Nm is. I use it so much... I also have a Cyclo torque wrench but I don't trust it. The best thing to use is the Park Tool beam wrench but those "beam wrench" type tools are very old and rare now, especially the more sensitive one, but yeah if you can get one of those it's 100% reliable compared to a "clicky" type. OK I think that's everything 😛
Excellent advice here … ta very much! As it happens, I just ordered a Giro Aries helmet so I’ll remember to put my info inside. PS: I bought a torque wrench but discovered after that it didn’t have a range sufficient to include the largest torque values required by the bike. Good idea to check the min and max torques required by your bike … it might take more than one wrench to cover the range. 🚴🙂
I have the Topeak multitool, it is excellent. I carry a cable to charge my cellphone. My front light reverses as battery storage to charge my cell phone while riding.
I am 67 now and am cycling from when I was 20 - these tips are great - Have a Silca Track Pump forever - so yes get a proper pump - don't have the chain link - will get one plus the tool 😮 !Oh yeah have the multi tool with chain breaker a must !
Don't get caught! At home, test doing hairy repairs with the tools from the tool bag. Turns out there are things on my brakes that the multi tool can't do. So I carry a couple of very specific proper allen wrenches in my tool bag.
Have to admit, I don’t have half of these on the list but I’m going to. I also tend to do a lot of duplication. I’ve set up three of my bikes with the exact same tool kit, pumps, etc. so I don’t have to worry that I left one of my tools on the other bike or at home. I also pack a rudimentary first aid kit for bumps and scrapes ( a habit from my old EMT days.)
I carry a set of hex keys, a very small multi-tool with an OK chain-breaker, patches and glue for the second or third puncture depending on whether I take one or two extra tubes along for the ride, two tire levers, and a spoke wrench. I've had my chain break once apr. 25 miles from home. That was somewhat a challenge since it was on my single-speed racer, but the horisontal dropouts had just enough play to accommodate the shorter chain. From that day on I always carry a spare link for the single-speed. The wole operation took a good half hour, something that would have taken about five minutes at home in the workshop proper with the "stationary" tools. I should remember to also bring along at least a couple of pieces of band-aid.
I've got the 'Wolf tools' chain pliers and they're so light and tiny (even have a space for storing the quick links). Fits in a small saddle bag and is perfect for breaking, attaching a quik/speed link. I use 'Pedros' tyre levers and they're bulletproof, never had them flex or break even on the tightest tyres. Pleased to say I have all 10 things on the list 😁
If you've got the chain tool, then all you need is a couple links from an old chain. So you don't need the speed links. Chain tool and spare links has been in my kit since the 70's. A 3 or 4 inch piece of an old folding tire will let you patch up a slit in your tire. A simple patch kit won't work for that with the tube poking out and all. Spare brake and derailleur cables along with pliers/cable cutters. Spoke wrench. On a tour, a few spare spokes. I have the old screw on freewheel on 2 bikes, so I carry a compact freewheel removal wrench. My kit was set up for a 15+15 mile commute, so there were plenty of road hazards - lots of patches, a spare tube and usually a spare folding tire. I always got more flats during the rainy season. My racks had english hex and my bike parts had metric, so I had to carry a few extra hex wrenches.
An extra set of cleats and mounting screws are advised also. I was stuck in Paw Paw, WV here in the US and lost a screw and my shoe was stuck on the pedal which I finally got off. There is nothing in Paw Paw,WV. Fortunately a well traveled bike packer we had made friends with on the trail had an extra set or two and was gracious enough to give me a set. Lesson learned. Now I also check my cleats for tightness once or twice a season.
All good things to have. I also carry a first aid kit complete with a large triangular bandage, and a few cable ties. The only other thing that can be useful is a disposable (and actually reusable plastic cagoule. These are all lightweight and fairly small in volume.
Good list that I wish I knew 15 years ago. I have snapped a rear mech and a chain over the years, both leaving me stranded. I'd argue against the torque wrench though. The allen keys are good enough. With the torque wrench you lose "feel" and it is easy (when new to the tool) to make mistakes that can damage a frame. My addition to the list would be Rema Tip Top, vulcanising glue and patches.
I strongly disagree re: torque wrenches. I can guarantee your 'feel' isn't as accurate as you think it is - it's been proven that even highly experienced pro mechanics' 'hand calibration' is way off. I've seen many bikes and expensive components ruined by both over and under-torquing. Just get a torque wrench and learn how to use it (it's not very hard!).
With modern bikes, unfortunately I’d suggest that the multi-tool have a T25. Haynes brake rotors also come with a small one, which is handy since my Crank Bros multi-tool is over a decade old & doesn’t have one.
I wasn't expecting it, but I have broken the derailleur hanger. While I lucked out...its very common that when these break you do other damage to wheels, chains, etc. The list of things needed expands greatly. Luckily I was with a group when I broke mine...(I gave them my keys) which they continued with and then one came back with my car to pick me up. (I then drove him back.) As always, great recommendations. All stuff you will need at some point. Minimum you should carry with you is a way to repair a flat. Spare Tube (even if tubeless) and a dollar bill (to line a slice); because you never know what type of tire damage may happen. It is, by far the most common issue I have had - a flat for some reason (metal shavings, tack, slice in the side of tire, etc.).
I recognised a RoadID bracelet. I have had a RoadID for many a year. I have one mounted on my Garmin Venu 2 watch. I usually ride alone so it's good to have the medical details available. I would also set up on a mobile phone the ICE (In Case of Emergency) details - there are instructions for both iOS and Android. Most phones, head units can also do live track and crash detection so get them set up. I would add: zip ties - multipurpose and lightweight - a get you home fix; latex gloves - again weight nothing, help keep the crud off the hands and gloves.
Multitool with spoke wrench. In case you break a spoke, you can remove the broken spoke and tighten/loosen the adjacent spokes to get to wheel true enough to get home.
Also pair of latex gloves!!! Makes handling the chain a lot easier. A couple of bandaids, some cash, a dollar bill can be used to cover a hole in your tire from the inside. (not tubeless). Some duct tape wrapped around some coat hanger/bailing wire. You can sometimes wire a bit in place. alternative to a multi tool is to buy a Wera 1/4" drive ratchet wrench, get an old altoid's tin, it will fit inside it, and the hex bits that fit your bike. The Wera comes with a hex to 1/4" drive so you can bring a 10mm socket or whatever size you need. Also a 2" 1/4" extension either a straight one and a magnetic 1/4" socket to hex, or the 711L Hex Bit and Socket 2 in 1 Extension.
I will also chime in on having a good set of "Can you see me?" front and rear lights! I have a set of Lezyne Zecto Drive blinkies that are compact and bright and easy to remove to recharge after every ride, but there are many good lights out there. Also, similar to the torque wrench is something called a torque key, which is usually set at a specific torque, say 5 N-m, and you can put those 1/4" hex inserts into it. Small, compact, and perfect for seat posts, handlebars, and actually most small fasteners on a bike. You should still invest in a torque wrench if you are working on larger components though.
Great advice once again! A while ago you stressed the importance of actually taking a spare the mech-hanger with you. I had a spare, but it was lying in some cupboard ... But as a result of your advice it is now in the saddle bag. What I'm going to take away from this one is taking a chain breaker and getting a more decent track pump. My current track pump with gauge cost a tenner, but it recently started reading almost random pressure readings.. It's 60 PSI, one stroke more: it is 100 PSI, one stroke more: Ah no, it is 70 PSI.. etc... The pump is still OK for "ballpark squeeze the tire" purposes, just not for racing tires...
For the Allen keys, my fav is a set of socketed Allens I bought from Amazon. Life is sooooo much better (originally used the multi-tool Allens) plus you can attach them to a torque wrench. I use a socket wrench for loosening bolts, and a torque wrench where needed for tightening.
Add a presta to shrader valve converter . Useful to pump up your tyres at the gas station when you run out of Co2 gas canisters or dont have enough strength to pump up your tyres with your mobile mini pump!
I would add a spoke wrench and chain tool. I have broken a chain and took out a link to make it home. Might lose low end gear, but still make it. Also include wire ties for a number of reasons and a small roll of electricians tape. Handlebar tape can come loose and you might also get a tear in a pannier that could be patched. I once used it on a damaged tire so the tube would not bulge out. Again temporary fix. If you have to mess with the chain or change a rear tire, I would also recommend a pair of vinyl surgical gloves. Might save your hands from road grime and ultimately keep a favorite jersey from being sullied , as well. No weight and little cost. I also carry a couple of painters rags. Again little cost and weight. The last two items are disposable. I assume your bike is properly equipped with lights so i will not comment there, but i do carry a glow stick to use if making repairs at night. Cheap and little weight. A small first aid kit is a must, but do not forget some meds like pain killers, or anti-diarrheal pills, butt lube, and of course some toilet paper or pack of tissues. Many times I have used the corn fields as my latrine. Finally small viles of sun tan lotion and bug spray.
Oh yeah, all those are essential for riding repairs & maintenance. Also, carry a small spoke wrench, in case of an impact or just a spoke comes loose. You don't have to be a wiz at truing, but just know enough to be able to get home or to the car without walking the bike...if you're using tubes, a piece of tyvek or extra piece of inner tube to cover bigger tears/holes in tire carcasses + tire plugs. 👍
one wrap/ double sided velcro, i carry bout five arm length sections just handy for cinching up a pant leg, adding a spare tube or bottle or attaching pumps locks or snacks, really endless uses even trail fixes like broken cable keepers. on longer rides ill also carry an adjustable wrench, not many of my machines need it but ive been able to help out others by carrying tools or spares outside of my bikes needs, the preglued patches are great cause theylll fix any wheel sizes tube and they cost less than a tube even if you use the whole set if you fumble em or are just having one of those days.
I still have an old sterling silver 'SOS' pendent from the 1970's. Don't have a torque wrench, but then again I don't ride carbon bikes and at 59yrs old have never broken anything from overtightening. I ride an ICE Qnt recumbent trike that's nearly 17yrs old. All the rest I have, plus carry a spare tube and repair kit and have a mini track pump fitted on the trike
100% agree with this - great set of suggestions all round. +1 for the Wera Allen Keys. I use Park Tools levers which I like but I’m disappointed by my Park Tools track pump. Go figure. Emergency details - they could be in your phone - not 100% reliable but a good step and phones have the capability to store this built in, along with emergency medical info such as blood group, meds. Etc. I have ended up with two torq wrenches - the majority of bike stuff is under 20Nm but a few things are over; start with the
I carry tyre boots made from an old worn tyre. Cut off a 25-50mm section of old tyre and cut off the beads. Make sure the quick links are correct for your chain 10/11/12 sp (or 6/7 sp if you’re really old…)
You also need set of torx keys, a lot of hex bolts are changing to torx bolts. Disc brake rotors tend to be either centrelock or torx key. Also I am running Hope clipless pedal and their cleats come with torx bolts rather than hex.
You could remove things from your saddle bag by replacing the chain breaker, the chain tool and the quick links with just a simple but brillant item: a connex link, which is a reusable quick link. It may seem more expensive than a normal one but as it can be reused many many times, it will be more economical long-term. It can be opened and closed with bare hands so it would be even quicker and easier to untangle the chain from the side of the road. I replaced all my quick links or standard pins with these
Got a torque wrench as soon as I got a bike with carbon bars as I was travelling a lot to France at the time, also had a bilingual contact details card in my saddlebag. All good advice.
things i keep in my bag that most people don't: a few TUMS indigestion tablets and ibuprofen. bandages. some cash. things i have on my bike that most people don't: bell (knog brand is cool), bar-end mirror, length of adhesive tape (wrapped around my air pump).
One really handy thing I carry is a piece of toothpaste tube maybe 50mm long - ideal for times if a tyre has gotten damaged or got something sharp in it that’s damaging inner tubes and you can’t find and remove it. Obviously only of use if you’ve got an inner tube fitted. Takes up virtually no space, cheap as chips and usually smells nice too 😉
Have all of those but a torque wrench. Best to always carry a frame pump or at least a mini pump. Have lights on your bike at night and on your helmet and spare batteries!Aaa size or 2032 whichever you use. A whistle can come in handy.
Mostly agree as I do have all of these (except the bracelet) I even have exactly the same multi tool but also carry 2 Park Tool tyre levers because one of the levers on the Topeak hex multi tool snapped. They are definitely not strong enough for tight tubeless tyres. Eg Conti GP 5000
Allen keys; check even the 8mm one for cranks(this stopped me once as I had a crank come loose on a ride). I have three multi tool but none of them has a chain breaker. I have two chain breakers tho' one in my toolkit I take riding...Never broke a chain when riding..I have a good pump and a cheap one. the good one is way better. I also carry CO2 canisters.. I have tire levers and a patch kit, 2 spare tubes, and sealant during goathead season (if you don't know what a goathead is, consider yourself lucky.). I don't have a torque wrench either. I only have carbon forks on one of my bikes and it has a quick release skewer.
If you have deep dish wheels make sure your valve stem and valve stem extenders in the spare tube are adequate. Try to set up the inner tubes at home and put in your carry on toolkit
New multi tool ordered! I had broken my chain tool and not replaced it. Tyres levers that come with the tool are a bonus too! Thanks for the reminder Katie x
I like a bare bones small multi tool - commen Allens and a screwdriver blade for H & L screws. And a seperate chain breaker - less cumbersome to use. The all alloy KMC version is small, weighs nothing and works better than most breakers designed for shop use.
Torque wrench is great and useful in general and not just for carbon bikes. I wish people carried the essentials. Most of my mates spend money on aero stuff and then wait for me to either fix or to use my tools.
The one thing you still don't own but really SHOULD, is a radar. Absolute game changer. Garmin should lend you one. Make a review with it, and I *guarantee* that you will keep it.
I’m not saying you are wrong but I wonder how practical they would be for someone like me who uses their bike for everything from shopping to month long camping tours. I mean how much do they cost for starters including the Garmin unit? I don’t fancy leaving that on my bike outside Sainsbury’s. And aren’t they going off all them time in town? I have mirrors. A bit low tech for all the poseurs out there but they don’t need batteries. I have 10 bikes and they all have mirrors. I do have a GoPro on my seat pin when I go for day rides. Sod’s law I haven’t had it on there a couple of times (out shopping or on tour at the time) when I would have liked to take it to show the police but I’m still here to tell the tale.
@@tomrees4812 i don't use the radar on my commuter, because I already expect cars behind me all the time, and I ride mainly on bike lanes. Where they come in really handy, is when you're on a secluded road, descending, and can't hear the occasional car sneaking up on you because of the wind or whatever, the radar will alert you before you get startled by the car passing you.
I would recommend fitting your bike with a lockrockit universal U lock mount. I bought one for my Ebike. It only costs $30 and only weighs 300 grams and only takes five minutes to put on the bike. Just remember to put grease on the bolts so it's easy to take off. It enables you to carry any U lock. Mounts for U locks almost always suck and plenty of people carry no lock at all. This mount enables you to easily put on and off heavy duty U locks that dramatically reduce the chance of your bike getting stolen. The great thing about it is that you don't even notice even really heavy locks because it places them in the centre of mass of both the rider and bike behind the saddle. If you buy three or more it's only $23.95 each. Just get one for each bike and then buy a good Ulock.
Side note, regards set of allen keys…Do exercise extreme caution to identify that you are using the correct size, but equally (more) importantly that it matches the bolt i.e. hex, torx, etc
The small size genuine vyce-grip. Can be inserted into bridge railing to undo even the bottom bracket. (Not that I've had to do so: fingers crossed.) Spoke key & spokes (front & rear).
I carry a piece of rubber that I cut out from an old tire that works great for a torn sidewall. It can get you home by preventing the tube from poking out of the tear in the tire.
You can use a shifter, aka crescent wrench to straighten out a derailer hanger on the fly. But of course if it broke you are SOL. With that I'm off to buy one for my bike. Thanks!!
I got a front and rear light/camera set. Alittle pricy but has saved me more than once. Too many idiots driving while using their phone, or just plain not paying attention.
Excellent advice, thanks! In addition to that, if you have an accident, your health insurance card is helpful, also, speaking from experience, a tiny list with telephone numbers of friends and family. In case you don't have your phone with you, or maybe if it breaks in the accident. Most uf us don't know any phone numbers by heart, and almost nobody is in the phone book anymore (do phone books even still exist?) Happened to me ten years ago. I broke my ankle in an accident, my phone was lying on my kitchen table, I was in hospital and it took me two days to find out the number of friends I could call. - A small first aid kit including a whistle is also good to have and it doesn't weigh much, just one or two band aids and an emergency bandage.
Thanks. I’m going to order a spare gear hanger for my Trek Checkpoint 4. It’s the only aluminium framed bike I have but I use it to go on tour and that means out of the way places.
Good reminder, just ordered a rear mech hanger for my new TREK frame. I also recommend thread locker (like Loctite Blue or similar). Really good for preventing pedals or cranks from falling off :-)
My Road ID fits on my Garmin watch strap. Ends up going with me everywhere now. PS. Katie get a torque wrench! Maybe something to add. I always carry a bit of old tyre in case I get a big slash and need to repair it.
Got that Topeak Multitool 👍🏽 Safety tip, get a Specialized Angi sensor for your helmet, I’m generally a lone rider so this reassures my wife (and she can check if I’m not just cycling to the nearest pub/cafe😂)
I have a couple of chain link removers at home but I don't carry one. In 45 years of daily cycling I've never broken a chain (despite absolutely caning it on acceleration from the lights - I'm an urban cyclist - and running the chain until it is stretched to a ridiculous extent) and I've never seen anyone at the side of the road trying to fix one. I guess if I was cycling the length of a continent on dirt roads I might bother...
Expanding on the ID bracelet, I carry a folded 8-1/2 x 11 printout of my entire emergency information in a small ziplock bag somewhere on my person, especially when cycling or skiing: name/address/phone/age/ht/wt/blood type/drug allergies/medications/medical conditions, license#/vehicle descrip/plate#/location of key on my person, contact info on insurance/doctors/preferred hospitals/e-contact. I fold this so the words 'EMERGENCY INFORMATION FOR (NAME)' is visible. Cheap, easy to update. I embed a print date field so a reader knows how recent. It has gotten used.
Good list. One more to add, seat post clamp. Don’t know why, on my trip to St. Jones, after reaching hotel and unpacking the bike, saw a crack on the seat post clamp. Luckily I had a spare in my saddle bag.
Can I just add that if you are going to get a spare rear mech hanger, you should get two. Then if you use one, you still have a spare whilst you order the replacement.
The chain plier quick link tool I have is tiny so fits in the tool bag very easily. I use T handle Allen key and T handle torx for home. If i didn't i would use those coloured one's because you can identify the sizes quickly by the colour reference.
I've been riding for 42 years. I've ridden thousands of miles and many many tours with other cyclist and I have never needed or seen anyone with the need for a chain tool. I do carry one with spare chain links on multi-day tours but I've never seen the need. In addition good bikes have derailleur hangers built into the frame nor have I ever seen a broken hanger unless the bike was damaged in shipping or during transport! Maintain your bicycle properly and know how to make repairs and these parts will not be necessary!
I've never bothered with a mech hanger (most of me frames didn't have one. But I have been cycling a little bit longer than you 😁) if things are that bad I make the bike a single speed on a relatively low gear, on one occasion I've removed the rear mech and put the chain in a gear that kept it tight enough for it not to not fall off. It was a long 15 miles in the rain and wind to get home!
All good suggestions, Katie. I've got my ID and allergies on a clip on my Apple watch from Road ID. Used to use their bracelt until they made an Apple watch band version.
Adjustable zip ties are a good thing to carry as well.
dont tell GCN ^^
Was going to suggest too & weigh nothing 😎
I find it handy to wrap a length of bungie cord around my stem or top tube. It can be handy to have something to secure the bike (on a train etc) or tie something to your bike at a pinch.
And a small roll of good duct tape...
A zip tie (or some tape) can hold a broken spoke from flopping around.
A month ago I took part in my first cycling race. The day before the event I went and collected the start numbers and I was approached by someone who said "Hey! You have the same bike model as me - do you by any chance have a spare rear derailleur hanger?". His broke a few days before the race and (thanks to you emphasising how important it is to have a spare) I could even help him out and save his race. He was so relieved and happy and that is thanks to you ;)
You also want extra derailleur hangers because, at some time or another, the manufacturer is going to stop producing them. It is really amazing that in a matter of five years some frame manufacturers stop producing essential parts for your frame, making the frame totally useless.
If you buy a cheap multi-tool with chain breaker, make sure it will actually fit your chain! Many older chain tools have driving pins that are made for 9/10 speed chains and won't fit the smaller diameter of 11/12 speed chains. I learned this the hard way.
Good info.
As a former emergency tech. The bracelet is your best choice. A necklace can come off, the note slips out of your helmet and in an emergency we don't have time to search your bags.
On my bracelet I have my name, emergency contact, allergy/epi pen and blood type (if you know it)
Cheers and thanks for your videos
I use a bracelet as I take a med but I also got some stickers ICE fhst add all the info you need to a QR code on my helmet and one on the bike. It has my ICE contacts and my meds
Spare valve cores and a valve core removal tool. It’s amazing how often a slow puncture is actually a loose valve core. Also its not uncommon to snap a valve core off when pumping up s presta style valve.
Recumbent bike was going perfectly...there's 3 pumping stations (With chained tools also) on that bike path...why not, the front tire can use a few pumps of air. Lean the bike on the post and started pumping...on the 3rd pump the bike fell and the Presta valve stem snapped off. FANTASTIC!!!...now had to change the used-to-be fine inner tube out...GRRR.
Yep. Slow in rear of Tandem turned out to just be the valve. I discovered it when I got to the tube in the sink phase. Could have kicked myself lol.
@@antonyreid7419 yep, lesson learned. I always check the valve core before removing the tube
One additional tip about torque wrenches. Make sure you get one that reads the applied torque in both the clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. Not all torque wrenches do this. But since some of the fasteners on a bike are "reverse threaded/left hand threaded" you need a bi-directional torque wrench.
I used to carry a multitool (with chain-breaker), but found that all the tools were difficult to use. Swapping to individual tools increased the weight a bit, but made everything easier - and you can leave out anything you don't need.
If you have a carbon frame carbon paste is a must and I highly agree a torque wrench is a must especially with carbon. I carry an extra derailleur hanger only on my mountain bike. A good tip is if you break a derailleur and carry a chain breaker like you said you can always make it a single speed it sure beats walking. I also carry a spare tube on my mountain bike even though its tubeless just in case a hole is too big. Its also a good idea to have some kind of spoke wrench to tighten one or remove a broken spoke. Very important on the lines of the bracelet is to program ice (in case of emergency) into your cell phone. Anyone can call ice even if your phone is locked.
I always carry a small first-aid kit; not necessarily for myself, but you never know what you might come across out there on the road, especially in group rides.
Micropore tape is very useful, a couple of proper calico triangular bandages - not those God-awful flimsy plastic mesh type things - can be used in a multitude of different ways, and I always take a few sticking plasters for smaller wounds or, if you need it, you can stick a few of them across a long straight cut and pull it back together like you would do with steri-strips.
I used to be a First-Aid Instructor, and you can treat any single injury in the book with only three triangular bandages.
i carry one for the people i run off the road.
@@jayminasi6073 I'm not sure if it's brave or foolish to publicly admit that you are so dangerous to be around on the road....
A few ideas: one essential you should always have when you ride is and LED blinky light you can attach to your seat post. If you're carrying a spare derailleur hanger, double check what kind of mounting hardware it uses. I have an older Cannondale that use a couple of very tiny bolts to mount it. Make sure your multi-tool has the proper bits for it! Some newer bikes have been shifting over to using Torx bolts. It's good to find out what the limits of your tools are. For tools at home, spend a little extra to get ball-end Allen wrenches. It makes it super easy to spin bolts in tight places (like those ones inside the bottle cage, or your fenders). There's a lot of good brands out there (PB Swiss, Bondhus). You can save some money by getting them from a tool store instead of a bike shop. Finally getting a cassette lockring tool and a chain whip is a good idea too. Cassettes are the #2 wear item on a bike after your chain.
100% agree with all of these. Just got a spare hanger today as I realized I never bought one with my new bike last November. I'd also suggest a patch kit if you're running tubes, a tire boot for super big tears/holes, some zip ties and flat folded duct/gaffer tape, and a CO2 inflator with spare cartridges. All in all, very solid advice and recommendations!
Great list!! One thing I added to my bike bag is a small first aid kit and a set of mechanics disposable gloves. Another hot tip is that when having to change a tire at home or on the ride, use some sort of strap, like either a bungie cord or a voile strap. It can go around the tire and rim to hold the tire bead onto the rim as you go around with the tire levers to get that last section of tire bead back on.
The gloves are definitely handy (soz!) for those times your chain jumps off the day after you liberally lubricated it 🙂
I carry twine wrapped around a pencil for that.
I've used speedier tyre lever from crankbrothers and it does the job for me. It is a bit bulky but quite easy to use and my road bike tyres are one of the stubborn ones to put on the rim. Also I keep some nitrile gloves in my saddle bag which keeps my hands clean during repairs.
Whenever I get a new bike I ***ALWAYS*** buy two spare rear mech hangers. I put one in my saddle bag and have one spare at home. Because when you need one you it will be out of stock or take ages to get another. Latex gloves and some wet wipes too. I also take spare speed links in 10, 11 and now 12 speed, just in case someone else is stuck without one.
Great list. No judging...lol.
I would add to your list a rear light and a front light. I use both every time I ride where there might be traffic. Drivers are more distracted than ever and two years ago on consecutive days I had someone make a left hand turn (right for the Aussies) in front of me and I had to brake hard. So, I highly recommend both.
For a rear light I use a blackburn with a fitting that will neatly fit on my arrow seat post (Felt AR FRD). The rubber fitting has a deep groove that the arrow seat post fits into perfectly. I was totally sick of having the light twist sideways and/or fall off. If you have an arrow seat post, this is a must.
I also use a blackburn on the front. It mounts to the bottom of my cyclo-computer mount. Love both.
10 years of riding , wow, you're just a baby cyclist.
In 50 years of riding, I have found Pedro's tire levers to be the closest thing to " best ". None are perfect. But Pedro's tire levers come in a variety of colors( black is easy to lose) Pedro's are large enough for your hands to actually hold on to. I've never had a Pedro lever fold over like cheap plastic. And Pedro's have multiple features molded right into them.
Great video with a great list of items all cyclists should have. And torque wrenches are not just for carbon bikes. Simple steel against aluminum should be torqued with care just like carbon.
I've had some version of all of these for years and wouldn't be without them, except the ID bracelet. But I have a tag with contact #'s attached to my keyring which I always have with me which is just as good, plus an ICE # on my phone's lockscreen. But the other things are obvious must-haves. I really like the Crank Brothers Speed Lever tire iron. One thing I would like to see more of is the use of cycling gloves when riding outdoors, for all sorts of reasons but most of all safety if you crash. Absorbs some of the blow possibly preventing broken bones and protects the skin from abrasions and cuts.
I love you mentioned the torque-wrench! ❤ It's cheaper than the carbon parts it may save.
If you do a lot of your own work, a set of T-handle allen wrenches is an even better upgrade. I've been fixing my bikes since the 80's and can't believe I didn't buy a set until recently. That Topeak Hexus you have is my favorite multitool, but I prefer the Pedro's levers. 3 or 4 small zip ties is good to keep in your seat bag. If a spoke breaks, you can secure it to the adjacent spoke and get home on it.
Alternatively to a T-handle allen wrench is to get a sliding T breakerbar in 1/4" drive, or a 1/4" breaker bar, and a set of metric hex bits, and a 3" 1/4 drive extension, and a 1/4" drive magnetic hex bit attachment. OR get Prestacycle T-Handle Ratchet, and a Wera 1/4 hex to 1/4" drive bit. This way you can build any size wrench you need. The Prestacycle company also sells a really nice chain breaker tool that works with the T-handle Ratchet. As for master links, Wolf Tooth Componets makes a cool master chain tool which you can store the master links in the handle. 711L EDC Torque Driver makes a nice compact torque driver. Silca the pump company also makes one that's a little longer.
Varia tail light. It is a must have every ride item for me. It’s so visible and notifies you when you have cars behind you. One of the greatest safety inventions I’ve seen for bicycles
I totally agree! Such an awesome piece of tech :)
Just want to echo this, it's one of the best bits of cycling tech I've gotten. Thought it was a bit of a gimmick at first but I won't ride without it now.
I've got those Wera allen keys and they are good, but they are loose and long. Also, the plastic sheath slips, but I fixed that by coating the inside of it with Impact Adhesive. You can get a "Gorilla Grip" set that's Bondhus in a penknife shaped tool that's amazingly cheap considering it's Bondhus... that tool (the red one, metric sizes 1.5mm - 6mm) is great for taking out with you. They are surprisingly robust and, just like the Alien III tool, the tightness of the tools can be tightened so it's not got any play, but is still possible to pull out. The Bondhus Gorilla Grip doesn't lock, but it does stop at around 90° and it's solid enough. They make other colours, but those other colours are American/Imperial sizes etc. Just get the red one! It was under a tenner when I last bought one, around 3 years back. It never leaves my handlebar bag.
Chain breakers:
The ones on multi-tools are crap. Get the "Cyclo" one - it looks like it's made from spare nuts - but I have broken at least 30 chains using that same Cyclo tool and it still works - many don't. My Alien III tool has a chain breaker and the Alien tool Katie has here also has that, but they aren't as robust as the Cyclo version.
Speed links:
What are those 😜 Missing links / Quick links... those are vital yes, and take up almost zero room or weight. I keep them in the little pocket of my Alien III.
Chain link removal:
You can get away without that tool when out and about, but if the chain links have "binded" (I've seen it) then yes you do need those pliers. It's a bulky thing to be taking out though and often, the links can be pushed together as long as you have some item of clothing to press the chain, so you're not using your bare fingers on it.
A pump:
I ended up swapping to solid tyres so no longer have to think about it, but if you're indoors with a track pump get a good one like a Birzman. If you're taking a pump out with you, the one I was last taking out (that is small, light, with a PSI gauge and pumps on the pull stroke as well as the push) is the "Topeak Road Morph G". They are about £30 or were when I last bought mine. Never let me down (albeit 60 PSI) and it's only about 1ft long.
A spare rear mech hangar:
I would have never thought about having that in the toolkit while out, but Katie of course that's such an obvious thing to take out... assuming you have the Gorilla Grip / Topeak Alien III tool too 😛The thing is, on the road, your rear mech is 100% safe. Surely this only applies to gravel/MTB riding? Maybe if you fall off on the road then the hangar could need replacing, but in that case you're going to be messed up (and the bike is) that it's hardly likely the only damaged thing would be the hangar. Regardless, it's under 10g so yes, it's something that should be included while out riding.
Tyre levers:
They need to be plastic. Yes they are needed. Katie you said yours are "going rusty" so they are metal? Urgh... don't use those, they will dent your rims, get plastic tyre levers.
Torque wrench:
Most of them are crap. The one I use the most, that's locked at 5 Nm... is the Ritchey Torque Key. It's not cheap (for what it is) at around £20 but I found that since buying it, I use it a great deal... front derailleur clamping to frame, FD and RD cables, brake cables... I mean my brake cables I do at 6 Nm but, with that Ritchey at 5 Nm I can use that and tighten a little more to guess what 6 Nm is. I use it so much... I also have a Cyclo torque wrench but I don't trust it. The best thing to use is the Park Tool beam wrench but those "beam wrench" type tools are very old and rare now, especially the more sensitive one, but yeah if you can get one of those it's 100% reliable compared to a "clicky" type.
OK I think that's everything 😛
Excellent advice here … ta very much! As it happens, I just ordered a Giro Aries helmet so I’ll remember to put my info inside. PS: I bought a torque wrench but discovered after that it didn’t have a range sufficient to include the largest torque values required by the bike. Good idea to check the min and max torques required by your bike … it might take more than one wrench to cover the range. 🚴🙂
I have the Topeak multitool, it is excellent. I carry a cable to charge my cellphone. My front light reverses as battery storage to charge my cell phone while riding.
I am 67 now and am cycling from when I was 20 - these tips are great - Have a Silca Track Pump forever - so yes get a proper pump - don't have the chain link - will get one plus the tool 😮 !Oh yeah have the multi tool with chain breaker a must !
The ID wristband is a must. Another good plan is to have an Emergency Contact listed on your phone, but it could be lost or damaged during an accident
Don't get caught! At home, test doing hairy repairs with the tools from the tool bag. Turns out there are things on my brakes that the multi tool can't do. So I carry a couple of very specific proper allen wrenches in my tool bag.
Have to admit, I don’t have half of these on the list but I’m going to. I also tend to do a lot of duplication. I’ve set up three of my bikes with the exact same tool kit, pumps, etc. so I don’t have to worry that I left one of my tools on the other bike or at home. I also pack a rudimentary first aid kit for bumps and scrapes ( a habit from my old EMT days.)
I carry a set of hex keys, a very small multi-tool with an OK chain-breaker, patches and glue for the second or third puncture depending on whether I take one or two extra tubes along for the ride, two tire levers, and a spoke wrench.
I've had my chain break once apr. 25 miles from home. That was somewhat a challenge since it was on my single-speed racer, but the horisontal dropouts had just enough play to accommodate the shorter chain. From that day on I always carry a spare link for the single-speed.
The wole operation took a good half hour, something that would have taken about five minutes at home in the workshop proper with the "stationary" tools.
I should remember to also bring along at least a couple of pieces of band-aid.
I've got the 'Wolf tools' chain pliers and they're so light and tiny (even have a space for storing the quick links). Fits in a small saddle bag and is perfect for breaking, attaching a quik/speed link.
I use 'Pedros' tyre levers and they're bulletproof, never had them flex or break even on the tightest tyres.
Pleased to say I have all 10 things on the list 😁
My #1 is digital pressure gauge, use it every time before riding.
If you've got the chain tool, then all you need is a couple links from an old chain. So you don't need the speed links.
Chain tool and spare links has been in my kit since the 70's.
A 3 or 4 inch piece of an old folding tire will let you patch up a slit in your tire. A simple patch kit won't work for that with the tube poking out and all. Spare brake and derailleur cables along with pliers/cable cutters.
Spoke wrench. On a tour, a few spare spokes. I have the old screw on freewheel on 2 bikes, so I carry a compact freewheel removal wrench.
My kit was set up for a 15+15 mile commute, so there were plenty of road hazards - lots of patches, a spare tube and usually a spare folding tire.
I always got more flats during the rainy season.
My racks had english hex and my bike parts had metric, so I had to carry a few extra hex wrenches.
Just make sure you carry a pin for the chain though. Speed links are so much easier and quicker to use and don’t cost much at all.
An extra set of cleats and mounting screws are advised also. I was stuck in Paw Paw, WV here in the US and lost a screw and my shoe was stuck on the pedal which I finally got off. There is nothing in Paw Paw,WV. Fortunately a well traveled bike packer we had made friends with on the trail had an extra set or two and was gracious enough to give me a set. Lesson learned. Now I also check my cleats for tightness once or twice a season.
All good things to have. I also carry a first aid kit complete with a large triangular bandage, and a few cable ties. The only other thing that can be useful is a disposable (and actually reusable plastic cagoule. These are all lightweight and fairly small in volume.
Good list that I wish I knew 15 years ago. I have snapped a rear mech and a chain over the years, both leaving me stranded. I'd argue against the torque wrench though. The allen keys are good enough. With the torque wrench you lose "feel" and it is easy (when new to the tool) to make mistakes that can damage a frame. My addition to the list would be Rema Tip Top, vulcanising glue and patches.
I strongly disagree re: torque wrenches. I can guarantee your 'feel' isn't as accurate as you think it is - it's been proven that even highly experienced pro mechanics' 'hand calibration' is way off. I've seen many bikes and expensive components ruined by both over and under-torquing. Just get a torque wrench and learn how to use it (it's not very hard!).
With modern bikes, unfortunately I’d suggest that the multi-tool have a T25. Haynes brake rotors also come with a small one, which is handy since my Crank Bros multi-tool is over a decade old & doesn’t have one.
I wasn't expecting it, but I have broken the derailleur hanger. While I lucked out...its very common that when these break you do other damage to wheels, chains, etc. The list of things needed expands greatly. Luckily I was with a group when I broke mine...(I gave them my keys) which they continued with and then one came back with my car to pick me up. (I then drove him back.)
As always, great recommendations. All stuff you will need at some point. Minimum you should carry with you is a way to repair a flat. Spare Tube (even if tubeless) and a dollar bill (to line a slice); because you never know what type of tire damage may happen. It is, by far the most common issue I have had - a flat for some reason (metal shavings, tack, slice in the side of tire, etc.).
I recognised a RoadID bracelet. I have had a RoadID for many a year. I have one mounted on my Garmin Venu 2 watch. I usually ride alone so it's good to have the medical details available. I would also set up on a mobile phone the ICE (In Case of Emergency) details - there are instructions for both iOS and Android. Most phones, head units can also do live track and crash detection so get them set up.
I would add: zip ties - multipurpose and lightweight - a get you home fix; latex gloves - again weight nothing, help keep the crud off the hands and gloves.
Multitool with spoke wrench. In case you break a spoke, you can remove the broken spoke and tighten/loosen the adjacent spokes to get to wheel true enough to get home.
Also pair of latex gloves!!! Makes handling the chain a lot easier. A couple of bandaids, some cash, a dollar bill can be used to cover a hole in your tire from the inside. (not tubeless). Some duct tape wrapped around some coat hanger/bailing wire. You can sometimes wire a bit in place.
alternative to a multi tool is to buy a Wera 1/4" drive ratchet wrench, get an old altoid's tin, it will fit inside it, and the hex bits that fit your bike. The Wera comes with a hex to 1/4" drive so you can bring a 10mm socket or whatever size you need. Also a 2" 1/4" extension either a straight one and a magnetic 1/4" socket to hex, or the 711L Hex Bit and Socket 2 in 1 Extension.
I will also chime in on having a good set of "Can you see me?" front and rear lights! I have a set of Lezyne Zecto Drive blinkies that are compact and bright and easy to remove to recharge after every ride, but there are many good lights out there.
Also, similar to the torque wrench is something called a torque key, which is usually set at a specific torque, say 5 N-m, and you can put those 1/4" hex inserts into it. Small, compact, and perfect for seat posts, handlebars, and actually most small fasteners on a bike. You should still invest in a torque wrench if you are working on larger components though.
Great advice once again! A while ago you stressed the importance of actually taking a spare the mech-hanger with you. I had a spare, but it was lying in some cupboard ... But as a result of your advice it is now in the saddle bag. What I'm going to take away from this one is taking a chain breaker and getting a more decent track pump. My current track pump with gauge cost a tenner, but it recently started reading almost random pressure readings..
It's 60 PSI, one stroke more: it is 100 PSI, one stroke more: Ah no, it is 70 PSI.. etc... The pump is still OK for "ballpark squeeze the tire" purposes, just not for racing tires...
For the Allen keys, my fav is a set of socketed Allens I bought from Amazon. Life is sooooo much better (originally used the multi-tool Allens) plus you can attach them to a torque wrench. I use a socket wrench for loosening bolts, and a torque wrench where needed for tightening.
Add a presta to shrader valve converter . Useful to pump up your tyres at the gas station when you run out of Co2 gas canisters or dont have enough strength to pump up your tyres with your mobile mini pump!
I would add a spoke wrench and chain tool. I have broken a chain and took out a link to make it home. Might lose low end gear, but still make it. Also include wire ties for a number of reasons and a small roll of electricians tape. Handlebar tape can come loose and you might also get a tear in a pannier that could be patched. I once used it on a damaged tire so the tube would not bulge out. Again temporary fix.
If you have to mess with the chain or change a rear tire, I would also recommend a pair of vinyl surgical gloves. Might save your hands from road grime and ultimately keep a favorite jersey from being sullied , as well. No weight and little cost. I also carry a couple of painters rags. Again little cost and weight. The last two items are disposable.
I assume your bike is properly equipped with lights so i will not comment there, but i do carry a glow stick to use if making repairs at night. Cheap and little weight.
A small first aid kit is a must, but do not forget some meds like pain killers, or anti-diarrheal pills, butt lube, and of course some toilet paper or pack of tissues. Many times I have used the corn fields as my latrine. Finally small viles of sun tan lotion and bug spray.
I talked about a chain tool. 😉
Oh yeah, all those are essential for riding repairs & maintenance. Also, carry a small spoke wrench, in case of an impact or just a spoke comes loose. You don't have to be a wiz at truing, but just know enough to be able to get home or to the car without walking the bike...if you're using tubes, a piece of tyvek or extra piece of inner tube to cover bigger tears/holes in tire carcasses + tire plugs. 👍
one wrap/ double sided velcro, i carry bout five arm length sections just handy for cinching up a pant leg, adding a spare tube or bottle or attaching pumps locks or snacks, really endless uses even trail fixes like broken cable keepers. on longer rides ill also carry an adjustable wrench, not many of my machines need it but ive been able to help out others by carrying tools or spares outside of my bikes needs, the preglued patches are great cause theylll fix any wheel sizes tube and they cost less than a tube even if you use the whole set if you fumble em or are just having one of those days.
Some good advice, esp chain breaker and speed link - have the former but not the latter - will order today.
I still have an old sterling silver 'SOS' pendent from the 1970's.
Don't have a torque wrench, but then again I don't ride carbon bikes and at 59yrs old have never broken anything from overtightening.
I ride an ICE Qnt recumbent trike that's nearly 17yrs old.
All the rest I have, plus carry a spare tube and repair kit and have a mini track pump fitted on the trike
Glad something worth watching finally popped up.
Great video, going to watch more from the past. Thanks.
Godspeed good woman!
100% agree with this - great set of suggestions all round. +1 for the Wera Allen Keys. I use Park Tools levers which I like but I’m disappointed by my Park Tools track pump. Go figure.
Emergency details - they could be in your phone - not 100% reliable but a good step and phones have the capability to store this built in, along with emergency medical info such as blood group, meds. Etc.
I have ended up with two torq wrenches - the majority of bike stuff is under 20Nm but a few things are over; start with the
I carry tyre boots made from an old worn tyre. Cut off a 25-50mm section of old tyre and cut off the beads.
Make sure the quick links are correct for your chain 10/11/12 sp (or 6/7 sp if you’re really old…)
You also need set of torx keys, a lot of hex bolts are changing to torx bolts. Disc brake rotors tend to be either centrelock or torx key. Also I am running Hope clipless pedal and their cleats come with torx bolts rather than hex.
You could remove things from your saddle bag by replacing the chain breaker, the chain tool and the quick links with just a simple but brillant item: a connex link, which is a reusable quick link. It may seem more expensive than a normal one but as it can be reused many many times, it will be more economical long-term. It can be opened and closed with bare hands so it would be even quicker and easier to untangle the chain from the side of the road. I replaced all my quick links or standard pins with these
Don't you still need the chain breaker to remove the remains of a damaged link before using the connex link?
In forty years of cycling for fun, sport and everyday utility I have never snapped a chain.
I went ten years.....then I did snap one and I was stranded. Maybe the law of averages is going to catch up with you?
Got a torque wrench as soon as I got a bike with carbon bars as I was travelling a lot to France at the time, also had a bilingual contact details card in my saddlebag. All good advice.
things i keep in my bag that most people don't: a few TUMS indigestion tablets and ibuprofen. bandages. some cash.
things i have on my bike that most people don't: bell (knog brand is cool), bar-end mirror, length of adhesive tape (wrapped around my air pump).
One really handy thing I carry is a piece of toothpaste tube maybe 50mm long - ideal for times if a tyre has gotten damaged or got something sharp in it that’s damaging inner tubes and you can’t find and remove it. Obviously only of use if you’ve got an inner tube fitted. Takes up virtually no space, cheap as chips and usually smells nice too 😉
Was given advice that the plastic wrapping of energy drinks, not drinks like the syrup, are good for this repair.
I carry a Park tyre boot in my little tool roll.
Have all of those but a torque wrench.
Best to always carry a frame pump or at least a mini pump.
Have lights on your bike at night and on your helmet and spare batteries!Aaa size or 2032 whichever you use.
A whistle can come in handy.
The thing about identity and emergency details struck me! I never thought about that, but it can be the most important "item" to carry with you.
Mostly agree as I do have all of these (except the bracelet) I even have exactly the same multi tool but also carry 2 Park Tool tyre levers because one of the levers on the Topeak hex multi tool snapped. They are definitely not strong enough for tight tubeless tyres. Eg Conti GP 5000
Allen keys; check even the 8mm one for cranks(this stopped me once as I had a crank come loose on a ride). I have three multi tool but none of them has a chain breaker. I have two chain breakers tho' one in my toolkit I take riding...Never broke a chain when riding..I have a good pump and a cheap one. the good one is way better. I also carry CO2 canisters.. I have tire levers and a patch kit, 2 spare tubes, and sealant during goathead season (if you don't know what a goathead is, consider yourself lucky.). I don't have a torque wrench either. I only have carbon forks on one of my bikes and it has a quick release skewer.
If you have deep dish wheels make sure your valve stem and valve stem extenders in the spare tube are adequate. Try to set up the inner tubes at home and put in your carry on toolkit
New multi tool ordered! I had broken my chain tool and not replaced it. Tyres levers that come with the tool are a bonus too! Thanks for the reminder Katie x
No worries Rich! Cost of one new multi tool is cheaper than a taxi home if you’re miles from home! :)
@@KatieKookaburra it sure is! My old multi tool is getting a bit sorry for itself too! Found the Topeak one at Halfords for £13! Bargain!
I like a bare bones small multi tool - commen Allens and a screwdriver blade for H & L screws. And a seperate chain breaker - less cumbersome to use. The all alloy KMC version is small, weighs nothing and works better than most breakers designed for shop use.
Torque wrench is great and useful in general and not just for carbon bikes. I wish people carried the essentials. Most of my mates spend money on aero stuff and then wait for me to either fix or to use my tools.
I dont have the spare mech hanger or bracelet. I do have the rest though. I also have a lot of specialty tools at home for bike repair.
Great info Katie also a tire boot that you can keep in your saddle bag 👍👍
YES!!!!!
The little Lezyne kits weigh almost nothing, are pretty cheap and have a small boot in them
I have the same multi-tool and keep going back to those tire levers! They are unbelievably good!
The one thing you still don't own but really SHOULD, is a radar. Absolute game changer. Garmin should lend you one. Make a review with it, and I *guarantee* that you will keep it.
I’m not saying you are wrong but I wonder how practical they would be for someone like me who uses their bike for everything from shopping to month long camping tours. I mean how much do they cost for starters including the Garmin unit? I don’t fancy leaving that on my bike outside Sainsbury’s. And aren’t they going off all them time in town? I have mirrors. A bit low tech for all the poseurs out there but they don’t need batteries. I have 10 bikes and they all have mirrors. I do have a GoPro on my seat pin when I go for day rides. Sod’s law I haven’t had it on there a couple of times (out shopping or on tour at the time) when I would have liked to take it to show the police but I’m still here to tell the tale.
seconded. if there ever was anything worthy of social media hyperbole, it is a varia.
@@tomrees4812 i don't use the radar on my commuter, because I already expect cars behind me all the time, and I ride mainly on bike lanes. Where they come in really handy, is when you're on a secluded road, descending, and can't hear the occasional car sneaking up on you because of the wind or whatever, the radar will alert you before you get startled by the car passing you.
I have 2 ears for that.
I would recommend fitting your bike with a lockrockit universal U lock mount. I bought one for my Ebike. It only costs $30 and only weighs 300 grams and only takes five minutes to put on the bike. Just remember to put grease on the bolts so it's easy to take off. It enables you to carry any U lock. Mounts for U locks almost always suck and plenty of people carry no lock at all. This mount enables you to easily put on and off heavy duty U locks that dramatically reduce the chance of your bike getting stolen. The great thing about it is that you don't even notice even really heavy locks because it places them in the centre of mass of both the rider and bike behind the saddle. If you buy three or more it's only $23.95 each. Just get one for each bike and then buy a good Ulock.
Side note, regards set of allen keys…Do exercise extreme caution to identify that you are using the correct size, but equally (more) importantly that it matches the bolt i.e. hex, torx, etc
Good suggestions. Crappy metal tyre levers make great paint tin lid openers btw :)
The small size genuine vyce-grip. Can be inserted into bridge railing to undo even the bottom bracket. (Not that I've had to do so: fingers crossed.)
Spoke key & spokes (front & rear).
What is it?!!
a good set of sidecutters for trimming cables and a spoke key
I carry a piece of rubber that I cut out from an old tire that works great for a torn sidewall. It can get you home by preventing the tube from poking out of the tear in the tire.
You can use a shifter, aka crescent wrench to straighten out a derailer hanger on the fly. But of course if it broke you are SOL. With that I'm off to buy one for my bike. Thanks!!
I got a front and rear light/camera set. Alittle pricy but has saved me more than once. Too many idiots driving while using their phone, or just plain not paying attention.
Just bought the Hexus. Looks good quality. Great video.
The track pump one is fun. My friends mocked me for getting an expensive one and yet it is the one they all use before we go out.
Excellent advice, thanks! In addition to that, if you have an accident, your health insurance card is helpful, also, speaking from experience, a tiny list with telephone numbers of friends and family. In case you don't have your phone with you, or maybe if it breaks in the accident. Most uf us don't know any phone numbers by heart, and almost nobody is in the phone book anymore (do phone books even still exist?) Happened to me ten years ago. I broke my ankle in an accident, my phone was lying on my kitchen table, I was in hospital and it took me two days to find out the number of friends I could call. - A small first aid kit including a whistle is also good to have and it doesn't weigh much, just one or two band aids and an emergency bandage.
refilled my first aid stash today. recommend sticky strips for cuts. weight nothing and take up no space,
Thanks. I’m going to order a spare gear hanger for my Trek Checkpoint 4. It’s the only aluminium framed bike I have but I use it to go on tour and that means out of the way places.
Good reminder, just ordered a rear mech hanger for my new TREK frame. I also recommend thread locker (like Loctite Blue or similar). Really good for preventing pedals or cranks from falling off :-)
Don't use Blue - its permanent. Go with Red as its a removable threadlocker.
My Road ID fits on my Garmin watch strap. Ends up going with me everywhere now. PS. Katie get a torque wrench! Maybe something to add. I always carry a bit of old tyre in case I get a big slash and need to repair it.
where can I get one of those ID things? is there a link? thanks! =)
Got that Topeak Multitool 👍🏽 Safety tip, get a Specialized Angi sensor for your helmet, I’m generally a lone rider so this reassures my wife (and she can check if I’m not just cycling to the nearest pub/cafe😂)
I now pack a spare bolt/screw for my shoe cleats. I lost one on a ride, but was lucky enough to be near a bike shop to get a replacement.
I have a couple of chain link removers at home but I don't carry one. In 45 years of daily cycling I've never broken a chain (despite absolutely caning it on acceleration from the lights - I'm an urban cyclist - and running the chain until it is stretched to a ridiculous extent) and I've never seen anyone at the side of the road trying to fix one. I guess if I was cycling the length of a continent on dirt roads I might bother...
Tyre boot... cut about 2 inches from the middle of an old road tyre. No worries about torn sidewalls etc then.
Expanding on the ID bracelet, I carry a folded 8-1/2 x 11 printout of my entire emergency information in a small ziplock bag somewhere on my person, especially when cycling or skiing: name/address/phone/age/ht/wt/blood type/drug allergies/medications/medical conditions, license#/vehicle descrip/plate#/location of key on my person, contact info on insurance/doctors/preferred hospitals/e-contact. I fold this so the words 'EMERGENCY INFORMATION FOR (NAME)' is visible. Cheap, easy to update. I embed a print date field so a reader knows how recent. It has gotten used.
That is a great shout and that’s all it need to be :) hope it never has to be used. Stay safe x
Spare cleat 6:03 bolt and washer and spare crank bolt with appropriate Allen key, always in my saddle bag
That is a great one!!!
Having your details in case of a crash is a scary thought but a good point 👍
Good list. One more to add, seat post clamp. Don’t know why, on my trip to St. Jones, after reaching hotel and unpacking the bike, saw a crack on the seat post clamp. Luckily I had a spare in my saddle bag.
Can I just add that if you are going to get a spare rear mech hanger, you should get two. Then if you use one, you still have a spare whilst you order the replacement.
I also have a compact chain pliers I take with me to open and close a quick link
The chain plier quick link tool I have is tiny so fits in the tool bag very easily. I use T handle Allen key and T handle torx for home. If i didn't i would use those coloured one's because you can identify the sizes quickly by the colour reference.
I've been riding for 42 years. I've ridden thousands of miles and many many tours with other cyclist and I have never needed or seen anyone with the need for a chain tool. I do carry one with spare chain links on multi-day tours but I've never seen the need. In addition good bikes have derailleur hangers built into the frame nor have I ever seen a broken hanger unless the bike was damaged in shipping or during transport! Maintain your bicycle properly and know how to make repairs and these parts will not be necessary!
I've never bothered with a mech hanger (most of me frames didn't have one. But I have been cycling a little bit longer than you 😁) if things are that bad I make the bike a single speed on a relatively low gear, on one occasion I've removed the rear mech and put the chain in a gear that kept it tight enough for it not to not fall off. It was a long 15 miles in the rain and wind to get home!
Yeah that’s defo an option - but then it’s the cost of a new chain. So just get a £15 replacement :)
I have Road ID. I use Pedro’s levers. Really good. Lights would be good.
I took your advice a year or two ago and carry a spare derailleur hanger. Never broke a chain in my life
The only thing I need is an ID bracelet. Deraileur hanger needs to migrate from my work bench drawer to my road kit though. Thanks for the reminder.
All good suggestions, Katie. I've got my ID and allergies on a clip on my Apple watch from Road ID. Used to use their bracelt until they made an Apple watch band version.