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Manuel completed, drop mastered, steep descent mastered - mountain bikers experience moments of happiness not only in the saddle. Keeping your bike in good shape can be just as satisfying as finally completing a long-planned challenge on your bike. Bleeding the brakes yourself, finally converting the wheels to tubeless or simply getting your bike back in shape after an extensive tour - in the realm of screws, bikers experience a very special feeling of satisfaction.
Order instead of frustration
However, for the dopamine to flow freely, important basic requirements must be met, as the joy of wrenching can quickly turn into frustration. Julia Schäfer from Rocky Mountain is a passionate mechanic and explains: "The environment has to be right for screwing to really flow." Instead of a chaotic mess, a tidy workshop with functional tools should be available. And it doesn't even have to take up a lot of space - even the smallest flat has room for a creative workstation. The right equipment and a certain sense of order are essential. Who hasn't experienced the frustrating moments when the crucial tool mysteriously disappears?
How do you set up a screwdriving area in the best possible way? How do you organise the chaos of tools and what basic equipment is essential for happy screwdriving sessions? We'll show you.
Are you looking for a floor pump, mini pump or shock pump? You can find tests and tips here:
The perfect workbench
Just as the kitchen is the centrepiece of every home, the workbench is the Centre of the screwdriver's shop. "This is where the magic happens", especially if you've customised your workspace to your own taste.
Stable and mobile - these were the basic requirements for my own personal workbench. Even for the simplest version, these requirements would have easily cost a thousand euros in specialised shops. The Billo version from the DIY store was also out of the question. So the only option was to build my own. The advantage of this is that the size can be easily adapted to the individual space conditions. You can even create an attractive workstation in the five-square-metre basement of an apartment block. There are plenty of instructions on the Internet.
Customisation is key
I invested around 120 euros in wood for the basic frame of my own construction, including the shelf under the worktop. The old vice is a find from Ebay classifieds. The studded mat costs just a few euros in the rubber mat shop and is a great investment in durability and visibility. Transport rollers with stoppers are of course not a must but really practical for everyday use.
Upcycling instead of buying new
Less crafty people can also find a workbench bargain at company liquidations. A battered work surface can easily be replaced with a new one from the DIY store. Ideally, a tool wall, where the most important tools are clearly organised and ready to hand at all times, complements the workstation. Cleaners, lubricants and spare parts can be stored in the base cabinet of the workbench - or on shelves and in boxes. A clever solution are mobile containers that can be arranged variably and store spare parts and accessories dust-free. Around six to ten square metres are ideal for a screwdriver workshop - preferably with a window to allow ventilation when working with lubricants. A power connection for electric tools or additional spotlights is always worthwhile. A sink or at least a water connection increases comfort and with the right sound from the Bluetooth speaker, even the most dimly lit basement compartment can be transformed into a screwdriver's oasis.
Tool wall - creates maximum overview
Instead of rummaging through the depths of your toolbox every time you need a 3 mm Allen key, we recommend that you hang your tools on the wall: Hang your tools on the wall - at least the most important standard tools. That's what the professional mechanics from the BIKE lab do. The most important essentials such as Allen keys, Torx and the like can easily be stored on just over one square metre. Chipboard or plywood panels are inexpensive and functional - perfect for a tool wall. Your colleagues at the DIY store will cut it to the right size. The tools can then be placed neatly on the wall using nails or small screws. Tip: All the tools that are to go on the wall are first aligned on the floor on the board, this creates the most order. If you outline the tools with a sharpie, it is immediately clear where each tool has its designated place.
Shelves and containers
Old and simple shelves from the children's room are not just for bookworms. Bottles and tins of lubricants, oils, bike cleaners etc. can be stored here ready to hand. Discarded mobile containers such as the Helmer from Ikea are ideal for storing rarely used tools that would take up unnecessary space on the wall and can be positioned flexibly.
Plastic boxes
Plastic boxes are available from DIY stores in all conceivable sizes and at reasonable prices. They offer plenty of storage space for tubes, tyres and spare parts. They are also ideal for separating tubeless accessories from the brake service kit - parts that should not necessarily be stored in the same drawer.
Hanging systems - how to mount bikes on the wall
Storing bikes standing up only takes up unnecessary space. It is much cleverer to store the bikes hanging on the wall - preferably with a system that allows the wheels to be swivelled sideways or pushed closer together. We show you three practical solutions for every budget.
Topeak Swing-Up EX Holder
Wall hooks are one of the simplest and cheapest solutions for organising your bikes. The Topeak Swing-Up EX holds bikes weighing up to 16 kilos and can be swivelled sideways. Tyre width: max. 2.6 inches. Price: 39,95 Euro >> at Bike Componets or Rosebikes available.
Stashed Spacerail
Noble suspension with high-quality aluminium rail in which any number of rotating and laterally sliding hooks can be attached. This allows the bikes to be organised particularly flexibly. For ceiling or wall mounting. The set with four hooks is available for 354.95 euros.
USE e-BikeLift
The e-BikeLift uses a gas pressure spring to lift bikes weighing up to 40 kilos onto the wall. The robust metal holders swivel the bikes to the side to save space and are suitable for bikes with wheel sizes of up to 29 inches and tyre widths of up to 80 millimetres. Price: 220 CHF
The most important tools for your workshop
A mini tool is often sufficient for emergency repairs while travelling. If you want to take it easy at home, you should use a set of solid tools invert. Almost all work on the bike can be carried out with these tools.
1 Allen key set The most frequently required tool. It is definitely worth investing in good quality here. From 2.5 to 10 millimetre bolts, everything is installed on the bike. A spanner with a T-handle is recommended for 4 and 5 mm Allen screws. Otherwise, normal L spanners are sufficient. From 10 euros >> e.g. available here.
2 Torx spanners Stems, rear ends and seat posts are increasingly being fixed with Torx screws. In contrast to the hexagon socket, the Torx has six prongs and therefore ideally offers more contact surface so that the screw does not turn round. A set with sizes T10 to T40 is sufficient in most cases. From 15 euros >> e.g. available here.
3 Chain riveters/lock pliers The Chain riveters - simply indispensable for replacing worn chains. This allows the chain rivet pins to be pressed out at any point on the chain. The Chain lock pliers opens or closes chain locks. From approx. 15 euros.
4 Chain gauge It can save a lot of money. Worn chains demolish the sprocket and chainring. With the help of the chain gauge, chain wear can be recognised in good time. From 10 euros >> available here.
5 Side cutters Bowden cables consist of a stable mesh of steel wires and require a large, strong and stable side cutter to shorten them. Even better is a special Bowden cable cutter, which squeezes the trains less. From 30 euros.
6 Spoke spanner No wheel can be re-centred without a spoke spanner. Caution: Not every spoke spanner fits every nipple. From 5 euros for example available here.
7 Torque spanner Hand-tight is relative. High-quality add-on parts should be tightened precisely with a torque spanner. Professional tools can be expensive, but there are also Favourable alternatives. From 25 euros.
8 Damper pump The essential tool for suspension adjustment. The Damper pump often comes free with the bike. Indispensable for tuning an air suspension.
9 Shift eye gauge For straightening: With the help of the derailleur hanger gauge you can readjust bent derailleur hangers and don't have to buy a new one straight away. From 28 euros >> available here.
10 Plastic hammer When servicing suspension forks, bearings or removing cranks, it can be used to loosen stuck parts and bolts >> available here.
11 Screwdriver Nothing works without them. Cross and slotted head models in different sizes are indispensable. Professionals swear by versions with a T-head. This allows you to apply more effective leverage and work with more pressure.
12 Straightening tool for brake disc Carefully bend the disc straight >> e.g. available here.
13 Calipers An indispensable aid for precise fitting or for measuring spare parts >> available here.
14 Floor pump An efficient Floor pump with pressure indicator is mandatory. A pump with a pressure cartridge is recommended for tubeless tyres.
15 Metre rule Provides valuable services for precise adjustment of saddle height and bike geometry >> e.g. available here.
16 Combination pliers The All-round tool, for example for cutting cables, tightening cable ties or crimping end caps.
17 Pipe cutter and file Both tools are irreplaceable when shortening and deburring the bike handlebars.
18 Bottom bracket tool Each bottom bracket standard requires a special tool for assembly. It is best to ask for the appropriate tool in the shop when buying the bike. From approx. 10 euros.
19 Cassette tool A special tool is required to remove the cassette from the freewheel. Cassette puller and a Chain whip. Only the puller is required for installation. From approx. 8 euros each.
20 Other helpers Mini-Tool and Tyre lever: a practical alternative to large spanners, and not just on tour. Cutter knife: the multi-tool for opening packaging or shortening cable ties (not shown). Pin punch: for knocking out stuck parts.
Workstands - for relaxed working
Relaxed working is only possible with a proper assembly stand. These are the best models in the various price categories.
Contec Rock Steady
- Price129,95 Euro >> available here
- Weight / maximum load / stowage capacity4.55 kg / 30 kg / 100 x 17 x 19 cm
- Working height / max. pipe diameter: 97 to 150 cm / 55 mm
This kickstand is also available in an almost identical design from brands such as BBB and Procraft. The biggest drawback of these models is the less torsion-resistant boom and the wobbly clamp that opens too narrowly. The stability is also not ideal. A tool tray and transport bag are available from Contec as accessories. This assembly stand is definitely a recommendation for occasional wrenchers, especially if you compare the widely varying prices online before buying.
Feedback Sports Pro Mechanic HD
- Price495 Euro >> available here
- Weight / maximum load / stowage capacity: 8.1 kg / 45.5 kg / 115 x 13 x 20 cm
- Working height / max. pipe diameter: 107 to 170 cm / 66 mm
According to our mechanics, the Pro Mechanic HD is the best assembly stand on the market. The robust clamp makes it possible to adjust it to different tube diameters in a flash and open it again at the touch of a button. Large turning wheels and smooth-running quick-release levers make handling a pleasure. Thanks to the tripod design, the Pro Mechanic HD is also stable off-road. It can be folded up compactly in a few simple steps. High-quality materials guarantee a long service life.
Park Tool PRS-25
- Price: 607 Euro >> available here
- Weight / maximum load / stowage capacity: 5.9 kg / 45 kg / 119 x 25 x 22 cm
- Working height / max. pipe diameter: 85 to 180 cm / 76 mm
Thanks to its hexagonal tube profile and widely projecting feet, the PRS-25 stands like a rock in the surf. The working height and clamping width can be generously adjusted. The toggle lever opens the clamping jaws wide, but is somewhat small and stiff. The clamping head has to be unscrewed for transport, but even then the storage space is still quite generous. For the price, we would have expected a little less plastic. A tool tray, paper towel holder and transport bag are available as options.
Battery cleaner - mobile cleaners
Clean first, then repair - that is also the motto of professional mechanics. These cleaners also work without a water connection.
Stihl RCA 20 cordless pressure cleaner
Price: 229 Euro
+ High-quality workmanship; flexible water connection; long battery life; easy to transport
- Gun with motor and battery is heavy in the hand
The chainsaw professionals supply a universally applicable device that draws water from the garden hose, the 20-litre folding canister or even from lakes and rivers thanks to the integrated filter. Long, flexible hose and high-quality workmanship. Of the four spraying modes, only two are really suitable for bicycles. Thanks to two rechargeable batteries, you can easily clean four bikes at once. Everything can be conveniently stored in the compact bag for transport.
Muc-Off Mobile Pressure Washer
Price: 275 Euro
+ Intuitive handling; folding handle and castors for transport; extensive equipment
- Battery runtime and display; stubborn hose; large storage capacity; cannot be transported in the car when full
The handling of the Pressure Washer is self-explanatory, all couplings and buttons can be operated intuitively. In our experience, the battery and 20 litre water supply are sufficient for two well-soaked bikes. Even with a full water tank, the device is easy to manoeuvre thanks to its wheels and folding handle, provided the surface is reasonably level. Includes foam nozzle and three different lances.
The top three bike cleaners
F100 bicycle cleaner
Although the test winner from our last comparison is a little heavy to hold, it adheres well thanks to its gel-like consistency and can be dispensed cleanly. Unbeatable in terms of cleaning performance and yet very good material compatibility. 23.99 Euro/litre >> available here.
Motorex Bike Clean
The slim bottle fits well in the hand, the spray head is adjustable and easy to dose. The spray pattern is also good, the cleaner does not run off immediately. Cleans at a high level, slight deductions for material compatibility. Bottle made from recycled material. 27.90 Euro/litre >> available here.
Sonax Bike Cleaner
One of the few cleaners that also convincingly dissolves grease. Sonax is also gentle on almost all materials. The slim bottle sits comfortably in the hand, the gel-like cleaner can be dispensed cleanly but is difficult to apply precisely. There is no foam function. 21.19 Euro/litre >> available here.
Stefan Frey
Editor
