Which basic tools do I need for bicycle maintenance?
Being able to perform some basic maintenance on your bike is a good time saver, and is important for being able to make sure you have a safe bike to ride. See some of the options below!
Last Updated: October 21, 2026
Like anything mechanical your bicycle will require ongoing maintenance and upkeep to ensure it continues to work well. Having a small toolkit on hand will help keep your bike in good working order. See our recommended tools to start with below.
Tools for tightening and loosening
If you're only going to have one tool, go with a multitool. This tool is small so it doesn't take up much space and still works for most of the bolts on your bike. If you want a more in-depth set of Allen wrenches that will handle just about any bolt on a bike consider THIS kit which has everything from 2mm up to 10mm. Some bikes also have a few Torx head bolts which are typically T10, T25, or T30. , Park Tool has THIS handy tool that has all three of those sizes in one.
Pumps
A pump for your tires is essential to have at home and/or on your ride. It helps with checking pressure and pumping your tires to your preferred pressure before you go for a ride, as well as re-inflating when you're fixing a flat!
See all our pumps HERE
Don't forget tire levers to go with your pump either! See those HERE.
Cleaners and Chain Lubes
Keeping a bike cleaned and lubed will its components run smoothly and prevent premature wear. There are plenty of cleaners out there that can be used, but it’s important to ensure they won’t corrode aluminum (as basic Simple Green can). Avoid using a pressure washer and spraying cleaners on brake rotors or pads. After washing your bike, allow it to dry before lubricating the chain to prevent rusting. See below for some of our favorite cleaners and lubes, and see HERE for everything we carry.
Muc-Off Nano Tech Bike Cleaner: This cleaner is biodegradable, free from acids, CFCs, and solvents, and it’s alkaline based so you can clean away with a guilt-free conscience, and it even smells good!
The best rated drip lube we carry is Silca Super Secret 2.0. Since it's wax your chain needs to be as clean and degreased as possible before application but it lasts the longest of our drip lubes.
Want to know how to use the basic tools that are local to us?
Check out our free tech clinics on Tuesday evenings HERE!
Still Need Help?
If you have any other questions, feel free to email us at info@mikesbikes.com or call us at 866-600-2453. We’re always here to help!