The situation is this: You are on your bicycle and you are pedalling perfectly slowly on the lonely road in the nirvana and you have the grin on your face as though you discovered all the secrets about surviving happily. It is windy, has a view and nothing but open road. And then—thunk. What is this weird noise? The wobbling effect is a bit. Flat tyre. So here go the bike tools; you will get on or off, literally everywhere, under any circumstances, without asking questions or second thoughts, because you do not have the slightest idea how the following tools may help you.
1. The Mighty Multi-Tool
If there’s only one item you carry (please don’t let there be just one), make it a bike multi-tool. Think of it as the Leatherman for cyclists. It’s small but mighty—usually packed with hex keys, screwdrivers, and sometimes even a chain breaker if you're lucky.
Had a ride once where my handlebars started drifting sideways mid-turn. Could’ve ended up hugging a hedge if I hadn’t had my trusty multi-tool. Compact, lightweight, and an absolute lifesaver—it belongs in every bike tool kit. Don’t cheap out either. A good one will last you years.
2. Tyre Levers (Yes, You Need Two)
Don’t even think about wrestling a tight tyre off your rim with just your hands. It’s not only brutal on your fingers—it’s nearly impossible. Quality tyre levers are essential in any bike tool kit. You’ll want a pair (or three) made of tough plastic that won’t damage your rims but can still get under the tyre bead with minimal fuss.
Pop 'em in your bike tools roll or saddlebag. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself the next time you’re stuck in a muddy layby with a puncture.
3. Mini Pump or CO₂ Inflator
Flat tyre? Cool. No pump? Not cool. I once made it 45 miles from home before realising I’d left my pump on the kitchen table. I ended up inflating my tyre at a petrol station air machine... slowly... while judging eyes watched from behind the counter.
A mini pump is classic: small, reliable, and great for the arm workout you didn’t ask for. If you’re in a rush or just like your fixes quick, a CO₂ inflator is a speed demon. But don’t forget the spare cartridges—you only get one shot per canister.
Whichever route you go, make sure it’s part of your bike tools collection.
4. Patch Kit or Spare Tube
You could carry the fanciest bike tools kit known to mankind, but without a patch kit or a spare tube, a flat will still wreck your ride. Self-adhesive patches are fast and tidy, while spare tubes are a go-to for longer rides. Honestly? Carry both. Patches are great for multiple flats (yep, I’ve had that day), but sometimes a tube swap is just quicker.
Pro tip: Practice changing a tube in your backyard before you have to do it on a roadside. Preferably not in the pouring rain. Learn from my mistakes.
5. Chain Tool + Spare Quick Link
Snapped chains are the real test of a cyclist’s patience. They usually strike at the worst possible time—mid-hill, mid-sprint, mid-mood. A small chain tool (often built into multi-tools these days) and a spare quick link can turn a catastrophe into a quick fix.
Also—keep your chain clean and lubed. More on that below…
6. Chain Lube + Cleaning Brush
A filthy chain is a sorry chain. It crunches, it screeches and most embarrassing of all, it wears down quicker. Chain lube and a little brush or old toothbrush will ensure that your drivetrain will last longer and that your ride will be easier going.
My trick is to have a mini bottle of lube in the garage and put it in my bag when I am on a longer tour. It is not glitzy. You will be sort of greasy. But, hey, that is the romance of cycling, isn't it?
7. Torque Wrench (Especially for Carbon Bikes)
Now, this one’s more for your home bike tools setup. If you ride a carbon frame or expensive components, a torque wrench is vital. Over-tighten a bolt and snap!—that’s an expensive mistake. A torque wrench makes sure everything is tightened to manufacturer spec, especially if you’re a bit... enthusiastic with the Allen keys.
8. Repair Stand
Okay, not technically a "tool", but if you’re doing any sort of at-home maintenance, a bike repair stand will change your life. No more flipping your bike upside-down on the patio. No more backaches. Just easy access and steady balance. Total game-changer for tuning your gears or cleaning after a muddy ride.
9. Saddle Bag or Tool Roll
Where do you store all this great bike gear? Not stuffed in your jersey pocket, you bet. Everything is placed in a small saddlebag or tool roll that keeps all of the items organised, accessible, and noise-free.
You can even make your bag match with your frame should you feel fancy. Or don't. As long as it is waterproof. The weather in the UK is not really kind.
10. Lights & Reflective Gear (Bonus, But Crucial)
Not technically bike tools—but still essential. Visibility is everything, especially here in the UK, where even midday can feel like dusk in February. Buy a good set of front and rear lights and chuck in some reflective equipment. It is not about seeing people but about being safe.
Let’s be real—buying bike tools online can feel like entering a black hole of tabs and indecision. So many options. So many identical-looking kits. Here's what I’ve learnt:
Look at reviews made by the users – they will give you more information than what the product descriptions do.
Regardless of the type of bike you drive, equip the appropriate tools (road, gravel, hybrid, MTB and so on).
It is not a big problem to feel overwhelmed when everything is not available on the first day. To put it in simple terms. Start to develop a bike tools kit as you develop.
No matter whether you are commuting across the streets of London or treading along the paths of Lake District, they will have the readiness you will need.
Riding a bike is fun but like any other good thing in life, they do require a small amount of maintenance. Being equipped with proper tools from Tredz is not only what makes you a better cyclist but also a more independent one, someone who is more confident and much less inclined to yell in frustration at a flattening tyre in the middle of nowhere.
That is why you should make that bike tool kit, place it in your saddlebag and roll because you have this. And by the way, when you do half-assed, go fix your chain with a sheep observing you-then smile. You have deserved it.
1. What tools are needed for bikes?
At a minimum: a multi-tool, tyre levers, pump or CO₂ inflator, patch kit or spare tube, and a chain tool. For home care, add chain lube, a torque wrench, and ideally, a bike stand.
2. What are some bike essentials?
Beyond bike tools? You’ll want a helmet, lights, water, a snack (bananas are classic), an extra layer for UK weather swings, and maybe even a mini first aid kit. Oh, and your sense of adventure.
