Setting Up Shop

Doing some maintenance at Red Canyon in Flaming Gorge Recreation Area.

From 1994 to 2006 I owned a small service only bicycle shop called Perpetual Cycle. After selling it in 2006, the new owner moved it to his property and began a mountain bike resort in Hansville Washington, creating Night Owl Cycling. It is amazing and worth checking out.

During my Perpetual Cycle days I taught classes in bicycle maintenance and repair as well as helped people get set up to tour and to bikepack before it became a fashionable term. Many people I was privileged to help went on to tour many countries and still ride to this day.

It is one thing to help others as you look from the outside in and quite another to help yourself looking from the inside out. One tends to ignore their own advice creating more complications than is necessary. Because of this, I probably carry more stuff in my bicycle kit than I ought to. However, I am a tinkerer and have to say that everything I have brought with us on our tours has at one point been put to use.

Coming from a mechanics point of view the following are the tools and parts I bring with me. The kit changes depending on which bike we are touring with as the components are different. For example, our Salsa Mukluks have 11-speed gears and hydraulic disc brakes while our Surly ECR’s have 12-speed gears and cabled disc brakes.

Know Your Tools…

Having the tools only works if you know how to use them. While it is not necessary to know everything about repairing your bike, it is advisable to be comfortable with the basics such as changing a tube. Many bike shops offer classes and one of the best online resources is Park Tool on YouTube. Park Tool also has a very useful guide called The Big Blue Book of Bicycle Repair. It is also available as an eBook so you can load it on your phone and have a repair manual on the go.

Another important step is to check that the tools you carry actually fit the bolts and accessories you currently have. On a few occasions I have forgotten to update my kit for the bike I am riding and found out too late. To verify, I always empty my kit and do a preliminary check of every item to be certain it fits and will work when on the trail. At this time I am also able to take inventory and replace things I used on the trail such as patches, brake pads, and zip ties.

The List May Seem Long…

I know this tool list is a long one and it will seem like they take up a lot of space. However, most of these tools fit into a Tenba 4 Cable Pouch that I don’t use for my camera gear anymore. For larger items such as chain lube and tire sealant I use a Revelate Designs Egress Pocket as my tool bag. Most of this is really quite compact.

Tools Of The Trade

Photo: Replacing brake pads

One advantage modern cyclist have is the great variety of lightweight tools that are available, there really is no excuse to not carry tools anymore. Companies like Wolf Tooth, Park Tool, Topeak, Lezyne, and Pedros make some incredible solutions for bicycle adventures. My kit includes a mixture of all of them.
Some of my tools serve multiple purposes beyond the bike, like fixing camping gear and creating items that make our time on the trail easier. My Leatherman Surge is one example of this and I will go into greater detail of this multifaceted tool later in this article.

Multi-Tools

Wolf Tooth 8-Bit Kit 2 + Rim Dent/Tire Lever Addition

The 8-Bit System is a group of four multi-tools designed to nest together using magnets. Together they solve most trailside issues from flat tires to broken chains. I have a love/hate relationship with them. Their functionality is wonderful but the one issue is that the magnets are way too weak and make using the tools frustrating. I have mentioned this many times with customer service and they have for the most part laughed at me and ignored my critique.

The bits fall out of the holder way too easily and on more than one occasion Deborah and I have been on hands and knees for an hour or more searching for a bit that fell out. They are small and difficult to see. Another issue is the door that conceals the bits is always opening when turning a bolt because of the weak magnet. I use a velcro cable tie to hold the doors closed which fixes the poor magnet design.

These two issues aside, they are one of the most thought out and useful multi-tools out there. The biggest issue with most folding tools is that they are useless for many bolts in tight places and the Wolftooth 8-Bit System fixes this problem.

This tool is stored in my top tube bag for easy and frequent access.

8-BIT PACK PLIERS MULTI-TOOL has 17 functions.

8mm hex swivel head serves as a driver for the bits that are stored inside
Flat head #3.5 and phillips #2 screwdriver bits
Hex Bits - 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, and 6mm and
Torx Bits - T10 and T25
Spoke wrench
Valve Core Wrench are stored on the back.
A rasp is on the inside of the upper handle for clearing sealant from valve stems.
Master Chain Link Pliers that can also tightening/loosening valve stem nuts.
Storage for a Master Chain Link.

8-BIT CHAINBREAKER + UTILITY KNIFE MULTI-TOOL has 5 functions.

Chainbreaker
The chain tool is operated by a 3mm hex L key.
A retractable utility blade.
A slot fits the L key and converts to a tire plug inserter.
The handle door opens to storage for tire plug inserts, a valve core, and a spare mini utility blade.
The 16mm chainbreaker head that can be used to tighten a loose crankarm.

8-BIT TIRE LEVER + DISC BRAKE MULTI-TOOL

A high-strength plastic tire lever on one end.
A Disc brake support on the other.
An 8mm flare wrench can open and close the compression nut on hydraulic brakes.
A slot for truing rotors.

8-BIT TIRE LEVER + RIM DENT REMOVER MULTI-TOOL

A high-strength plastic tire lever on one end.
A rim dent remover on the other end that perfectly fits over the lip of metal rims.

Topeak Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+

This is easily one of my most favorite tools. The ratchet tool has proved to be strong and durable even though it looks so tiny and fragile. Of all the tools I have the Ratchet Rocket is the bike tool I use the most.

I like that it uses standard 1/4” bits used in battery tools so replacements are easy to find. This also allows for me to use special bits and holders not included in this kit.

The storage case also stores extra bits and blades for my Leatherman Surge. And it has a pocket to store tire patches.

Ratchet Rocket Lite NTX+ Includes The Following Tools

Adjustable TorqBit 2-6 Nm
Allen Bits - 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8mm
Torx Bits - T10, T15, T25
#2 Phillips Bit
Chain Tool for Single speed to 12 speed chains. (I removed from my kit and use the Wolftooth tool)
Glueless Patch Storage

Specifications

19 Functions
Material: Chrome Vanadium Steel
Size: 13 x 6.5 x 3.3 cm / 5.1” x 2.6” x 1.3”
Weight: 240 g / 8.46 oz
Bag: Nylon

Leatherman Surge

I have had a Leatherman Wave for years but it wasn’t until I purchased the Surge that a Leatherman tool hasn’t left my side. It always amazes me just how much I use the Surge for everyday things. It is the perfect multi-tool for our bikes, camp gear, first aid, and miscellaneous projects.

The accessories you can attach to this thing enhance it beyond words. It has 21 tools that have nearly limitless options for expansion. Such a fun tool for those of us who love to tinker.

I have added a few different saw blades and bits that make repairs much easier. There are also some things like disc brake bolt removal that make this tool a prized possession of mine.

21 TOOLS INCLUDED

Needle Nose Pliers
Regular Pliers
Replaceable Wire Cutters
Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters
Stranded-wire Cutters
Electrical Crimper
Wire Stripper
420HC Knife
420HC Serrated Knife
Saw
Spring-action Scissors
Awl w/ Thread Loop
Ruler (8 in | 19 cm)
Can Opener
Bottle Opener
Wood/Metal File
Diamond-coated File
Blade Exchanger®
Large Bit Driver
Large Screwdriver
Small Screwdriver

Tools I Have Added

Bosch Diamond Saw Blade
Bosch Clean Wood Saw Blade
Bosch Progressor Wood Blade
Leatherman Ratchet Bit Holder
T20 Torx Bit
Screwdriver Bit Set
1/4” Socket Holder
Leatherman Eyeglass Screw Bit
Leatherman Work Sharp Knife Sharpener

Specialty Tools

photo courtesy and copyright Wolf Tooth Components

These are tools that fix specific components of the bicycle like bottom brackets, pedals, and frames. Tools in this category fix complex issues that you would normally take your bicycle to a shop for. The use of these tools require an advanced knowledge of bicycle repair or a blind willingness to experiment and learn with an understanding that you may make matters worse.

Wolf Tooth Components have been a game changer in this category. To my knowledge, I think they are the only company making tools of this nature that are perfectly suited for bikepacking and touring. Their tools are machined from aluminum making them extremely light and packable. Because of this, care must be taken when using these tools as they are not the heavy bike shop tools that demand daily abuse. However, they are perfectly at home for emergency repairs on the trail.

Wolf Tooth Pack Wrench and Insert Kit

This aluminum wrench and insert kit is designed to provide a bike tool solution that is compact and lightweight. The aluminum wrench has magnets that hold the nickel plated steel inserts in place. The wrench has splines for bottom brackets and centerlock rotors and inserts cover most common bike applications.

I have inserts that are for the components that are on my bikes. Make certain before you ride that you know for sure the insert you have fits your bike. I made the mistake of thinking the ISIS/Cinch insert would fit the Spline Drive bottom bracket on my Surly ECR but the insert is not deep enough to reach the splines. Now I carry Spline Drive specific tool when riding my ECR. Wolf Tooth only needed to add 3mm to the depth and it would have worked. Not sure why they did not.

Wolf Tooth 8mm Insert Issue

One issue that I have had twice with the 8mm insert is that the hardened steel is not hard enough and I have twisted two of them. Now I carry Park Tool 8mm wrench.

MY KIT INCLUDES

Pack Wrench - 16-notch 44mm bottom bracket tool - Aluminum
Pack Wrench has Chain Line Measurement Marks.
Cassette Lock Ring Wrench Insert - Hardened Steel
16mm Hex Wrench Insert - Hardened Steel
BBS4612 ⌀45mm 12 Notch Bottom Bracket Insert - Aluminum

Wolf Tooth Chain Whip

In conjunction with the Pack Wrench I have the Chain Whip as it is needed to remove the cassette.

Wolf Tooth Pack Hanger Alignment Tool

The rear derailleur hanger bends often and easily. Quite often faulty shifting is due to a bent hanger more so than cable tension. Alignment tools are extremely bulky and heavy, at least until Wolf Tooth made this lightweight aluminum solution. I have had to use mine a few times and it works great!

Keep in mind if you adjust shifting and it works on the lower gears, skips the middle gears, and works fine on the higher gears then your derailleur hanger is bent and no amount of cable adjustment is going to fix shifting until you straighten it.

Bike Hand

This is a cheap Amazon.com sourced tool that I bring when riding my Surly ECR. They are needed to remove the cranks and remove the Spline Drive bottom brackets.
To use the bottom bracket tool with my 8mm allen tool I found this 1/2” socket to 8mm allen adapter.

Topeak Mountain Morph Pump

My pump is a real morph. We have a Lezyne pump that had a better hose than came with the Topeak so what I did was install the Lezyne hose onto the Mountain Morph. It works great! The hose is longer and threads onto the valve so you don’t damage the presta release valve.

Before switching the hose I tested both pumps and the Topeak pumps a tire faster. So now I have nice pump with a gauge.

Miscellaneous Tools

Brooks Saddle Tension Spanner -

If you have a Brooks Saddle you have to have it. They have made their own bolt size that only fits this wrench.

Kenway Brake Rotor Spacing Tool -

Not needed but sure makes adjusting disc brakes a lot easier by creating the perfect spacing and alignment of the caliper.

Park TPT-1 Tubeless Tire Plug -

If you have gone tubeless then a tire plug is going to be needed at some point. Instead of tube patches you use plugs, aka. bacon strips.

Park THH-8 Sliding T-Handle 8mm Hex Wrench -

As mentioned before, the Wolf Tooth 8mm insert for the pack wrench kept twisting so I have added the Park THH-8 as a reliable tool. It removes pedals mostly but it can also be used for the crank bolt on our Salsa Mukluk fat bikes.

Wire Brush -

I carry a small wire brush for cleaning rust off of parts and it also works for taking dirt off of disc brake pads. It also brushes off the grill for our Trangia and Firebox stoves. Wire brushes are a nice addition to a touring kit.

Muc-Off Claw Brush -

Bicycle brushes are shaped to fit between gears and components making them ideal for keeping your bike clean and in working order. The Muc-Off Claw brush is small but effective. I wish the bristles were a little stiffer but they work okay.

Shop Towel -

If you are working with bike greases and lubricants then a cotton shop towel is well worth bringing. They are specifically made for mechanical tasks. They work much better than paper or micro-fiber towels.

Nitrile Gloves -

You will thank me for suggesting these and your hands will thank you. Keep your hands clean and chemical free.

Knipex 87-01-180 Cobra 7-1/4” Pliers -

This may seem a redundant tool since I have pliers on my Leatherman Surge. However, the Surge is only a needle nose plier and has a limited opening. The Knipex works great for larger bolts and gripping items that the Surge can not do. It has been useful on numerous occasions.

Duct, Electrical, and Tubeless Tape -

I doubt tape needs any explanation. It is useful for all sort of gear repair. I bring along some Stans Tubeless Rim Tape in the event I have to replace a spoke and patch the hole in the rim tape.

Plumbers Abrasive Cloth -

Normally used for sanding copper pipe, the abrasive cloth is great for cleaning brake rotors and pads. It can also be used on any repair project that requires sanding. It rolls up like tape and is easily ripped into tiny strips as needed.

Forj Thermoplastic Tape -

I discovered this last year and am not sure how I ever got along without it. The things you can fix or create are endless with this stuff. It has a breaking strength of 1000 pounds and works great for repairing tubular items such as bike racks, handlebars or even bike frames. The only limitation to Forj is your imagination.

You heat the ribbon to 140°F with hot water or flame, mold it to the shape you need, and after a few minutes it cools. Molecularly fusing to itself and making a strong as steel bond.

Fix Its Moldable Plastic -

Fixits is another amazing product that works similar to Forj. This eco friendly, non toxic, and reusable material has repaired a lot of broken items for me. I have used it to create parts for my bike, camera, and electronics. This is another product that is only limited by imagination. It is lightweight and takes up very little space.

It has repaired a broken Salsa Anything Cage, cracked power cables, and made new handle holders for my cook set. I have also made tube spacers on my bike racks so that the Ortlieb bags are more secure and don’t rattle.

Voile Straps -

Most of us on the bike touring circuit know these straps very well. Beyond using them for strapping gear to a bike, I use them to hang our bikes in a tree as a repair stand, to securely stand our bikes up against picnic tables, and to tie our bikes together at night or in public for security.

Velcro Cable Ties -

I use these to hold tools together for packing and attaching accessories to bags and such. Also for wrapping long straps so they don’t dangle and get caught up on brush and other tight places. And they are useful for wrapping up power cords.