TECH Q&A
WORK(SHOP)ING FROM HOME
My local bike shops all have long waiting lists to get bikes seen to. Is it worthwhile getting a few tools to do the basic jobs myself?
Geoff Anderson, Penrith
Performing maintenance on your bike can be very rewarding, as well as a good way to save time and money. But, be warned – it can also be extremely frustrating at times!
We’d recommend that any keen mountain biker has a basic tool kit that allows them to fix snapped chains, repair punctures, replace cables and index gears. This will help keep your bike on the trails, rather than in the workshop.
In addition to a multi-tool, mini pump, tyre plugs and spare quick-link for trailside use, we’d recommend buying a set of Allen keys, a chain tool, a pair of cable cutters and a chain-wear checker. You don’t have to learn how to change a chain, index gears and carry out all sorts of other useful maintenance tasks.
