MTB tool essentials: Every mountain biker needs these 8 tools (no excuses!)

Who doesn't dream of having a professional workbench with lots of tools? Unfortunately, very few people have the space, the necessary small change or the motivation to set up a screwdriver's corner. Never mind, we say. Because bikers actually only need a few tools to carry out common maintenance work. Here are eight tools that every biker should have. These are the (must-have) tools for mountain bikers:

• Combination pliers >> e.g. Knipex power combination pliers
• Side cutter >> e.g. Knipex Kraft diagonal cutters
• Torque spanner >> e.g. 3min19sec
• Chain riveters >> e.g. Pro Chain tool 9 to 12 Speed
• Floor pump >> e.g. Topeak JoeBlow Sport Digital
• Shock pump >> e.g. Pro Shock Pump Team
• Allen set >> Wera Allen set
• Torx set >> Park Tool Set

All-rounder: Combination pliers & diagonal cutters

Did you know that tongs are one of the oldest tools of all? They are said to have been invented in the Bronze Age around 3000 BC, e.g. for gripping hot objects. We bikers prefer to use combination pliers and side cutters to shorten brake and gear cables, for example. Price: from 25 euros per item >> available here.

Precision work: Torque spanner

There are exactly two camps when it comes to torque spanners. One camp says: "Oh, I do it by feel, even with carbon", like BIKE tester Laurin. The other camp disagrees: "Always use a torque spanner for carbon", like the king of tightening, Stefan Frey. Our tip: Trust Stefan instead. He recommends the 3min19sec torque spanner set (1-25 Nm), other exciting models in the test can be found in this Article. Price: 70 Euro >> available here.

Bridge builder: Chain riveters

If the chain is broken, neither combination pliers nor an Allen key or torque spanner will help. Then you need a chain tool. Although there are also mini-tools with integrated chain riveters, a handy model like this one from Pro is more practical. Suitable for 9- to 12-speed. Price: 20 Euro >> available here.

Pressure maker: Floor pump

A floor pump is part of every biker's repertoire. So leave the mini-pump in your rucksack for trail use and invest in a solid floor pump that can also reliably pump tubeless tyres into the rim flange. To save on an air pressure gauge, we recommend a model with a digital display. The JoeBlow Sport Digital has proven itself in the BIKE test team. Price: 80 Euro >> available here.

Fancy a different model? Here you can find a complete Comparison test.

Pressure sensor: Damper pump

The 15-time German downhill champion Marcus Klausmann once said: "1-2 psi, that's worlds". We believe Marcus and therefore use a digital shock pump - because this is the only way to recognise subtle differences. The Pro Shock Pump Team has impressed in past comparison tests. Price: 99 euros.

Here you can find a complete Damper pump comparison test.

Allen & Torx set

Everyone knows that one mate who messes around at home with his mini-tool. We say: The mini tool is for travelling. Don't do it and treat yourself to a set of Allen and Torx spanners. In L-shape, of course, for efficient power transmission. Available from many manufacturers, e.g. Wera (>> available here) and Parktool (>> available here). Price: from 40 euros per set.

Want a little more? Then check this article: The most important tools for at home

Or a toolbox after all? We have one Tool case comparison test made

Or do you want to build yourself a screwdriver corner? The Instructions you can find here.