5 Essential Tools You Need To Work On Your Mountain Bike

[@drumbrakes]

This video is 6 years old, but I still have an older version (with red tyre levers) of that Topeak Hexus 16 mutli-tool that Doddy shows us. I've had it at least 15 years, probably 20. It looks a bit worse for wear, but still works perfectly, and no wear on the working edges of the hex keys I've taken it with me on every ride and using it for trail repairs, a few full builds and all home jobs on our bike fleet too. Also assembling 3 houses worth of flatpack furniture and even a couple of garden trampolines plus a shed. It's got all the bits needed for 90% of jobs, including 2, 2.5 & 3mm hex keys, tyre levers and even spoke keys, so it's still the first tool I reach for and I only go to the big tool box for a specialist tool, or occasionally hex bolt that's just too awkward for a mutli-tool. The chain tool on that version isn't quite compatible with 12 speed chains, but I can't call that a fault as I think 9 speed was the newest standard when I bought it. (I've just found I can but the chain tool arm from the newest version which is 12speed compatible as a seperate part! That'll keep me going for another 20 years if I'm lucky) If you want a multi-tool, the latest version is called ToPeak Hexus X - if it's anything like the original, you won't regret it.

[@charlie9ine]

I just got a Topeak ratchet tool. It does literally everything. Not only on the bike but I’ve used it on a wood build project in a really tight place and to tighten my kitchen faucet where an ordinary Allen key would have been awkward

[@ryderlogan6876]

You're a 10/10 doddy

[@renatugaming5730]

Yay I got all of the allen keys because archery needs both standard, metric, and the torx set so I'm good to go with that one!

[@evelasq1]

Those cable cutter do come in handy when I cut the bike cables and the cable housing. It was so easy to use and I am glad that I got them. I have used conventional cutters and they hard a little bit harder to cut with but now on I am sticking with these cutters. Other than using it on a cable, I have cut a few small zip ties so I could remove the Pedros recycled Milk Tire Levers. I am sure no harm has been done. As far as having some tools. I have a small collection of tools in my Husky toolbox. The Bontrager big air pump stand does make it easier to pump air faster in comparison to the one I carry on my bike frame for on the go. I am always carrying my Rockshox air shock pump for my Fox DPS Performance Rear Shock and especially when cold freezing weather could reduce the air volume in an air shock. It has happened to me before when I got it new. Looks like I have nearly everything that I need but I am thinking of getting the ratchet torque wrench and the hammer from Park Tools.

[@cristianivancidguerra1005]

I haven't seen the video yet but I know this is what we needed. Please, continue with this series of videos. There are so many MTB specific tools that most average home mechanics don't know. Loving the channel so far. Kudos!

[@gmbntech]

+Cristian Ivan Cid Guerra thanks Cristian - appreciate it!

[@TheApothecaryAus]

I bought the Topeak Turbo Morph G pump because Doddy said so and it's actually really good - even to get your road bike to 80PSI in a pinch is painless.

[@oscarlangley7887]

Answered my tech question within 24hours. Epic

[@gmbntech]

+Oscar Langley 👍

[@damienm8416]

For washing a bike you can use a Ph neutral car soap like bilt hamber auto wash . I would recomend : 1. Spray bike with an APC ( All purpose cleaner ) like Bilt Hamber Surfex HD wait a bit then rinse. 2. Use a PH neutral car soap without any waxes like Bilt Hamber Auto Wash using a microfiber wash mitt or a comparable microfiber cloth and two buckets one for soap the other for rinsing the old dirt of the mitt. Use an old cloth ( disposable ) for the drivetrain.

[@jdur6753]

I got that multi tool today before the video!

[@slimelord314]

Hello gmbn tech, can we talk about some ways to stand the bike while working on it? Like types of stands, especially for those of us on a budget

[@koko-lores]

Hacks and Bodges! Hacks and bodges, hacks and bodges, hacks and bodges. Haaacks and Bodges! Hacks and Bodges!

[@slimelord314]

koko lores 😂 the techno version

[@aljowen]

+1 for the good quality cable cutters. I didn't have any when I had to replace the cables on my bike, so I had to use a cable cutter built into a cheap set of pliers, then use a vice to clamp the metal end of the pliers in order to generate enough force to get through the cable. It was less cutting and more crushing the cable till it was weak enough to twist off. All said and done, the pliers survived, the vice however was bent in the process and the first cables I did were frayed. TOP TIP: If you don't have good cutting tools, apply some glue or wrap tape around the cable before cutting it. This will prevent it from fraying even with crap tools.

[@koko-lores]

(1) get a better vice (2) Drink more "tea" so you get stronger and can cut cables with a single cut, reducing fraying

[@koko-lores]

of course, quality cable cutters also help a lot ;)

[@aljowen]

In fairness. Cheap pliers don't make for great cable cutters ;p However I would have to agree with the vice bit. I was a bit shocked when I managed to bend the tightening handle trying to cut through the cables. Those cables are tough.

[@No_motor_angler]

I wish Park would offer more of their tools in that green color like they did on the multi tool

[@willashton5222]

Wow I'm gonna need to buy these at some point 😂

[@brodylight6132]

I use ct18 truck wash to clean my bike, spray leave for 5 and rinse

[@th_js]

Havent watched it yet but i know i'll love the vid

[@gmbntech]

+Tomi Saaranen thanks Tomi!

[@thim8009]

If I could buy one track pump it would also be the ones you can turn a valve pump up to 160 psi hit the valve again and seat the bead on tubeless tire set up.

[@mjobrien69]

I really like this as although fairly obvious, it’s not shoving brands down your throat.. if you get a multi tool, I recommend giving it a light wipe of WD40 and keeping it in a sealed bag so it doesn’t corrode on the trails in a wet bag.. Also with BB bearings and headset bearings, you can get new life out of them by soaking them in petrol, working the bearings and cleaning them from all the gunk and old grease, then isopropyl alcohol, drying it quickly and repacking with grease. Bit messy, bit fiddly but will save you a lot of cash if they’re not internally worn 😊

[@gmbntech]

+Matt O'Brien that's a cool idea on the multitool - I'd never heard of that.

[@mnbv5555cxz]

Great list. I suggest just borrowing all of these from your riding buddies instead of buying your own :)

[@gmbntech]

+ed ha!

[@alexb1974]

Doddy : the god of mechanic !!!

[@xcmtb9658]

Great video, really helped

[@olegpetelevitch4443]

You can also get an air shot to put on your pump !

[@FGv_-bb1ij]

Can you not use a normal track pump for shocks?

[@connor4011]

FG39v9.1 _ no they don’t get a good enough seal and burp air out of the shocks

[@samw156]

I have that shockpump! It was actually the cheapest I could get, but I know topeak make quality equipment, so I just went with it

[@SuperMorthans]

When is the next video coming? You mentioned a next video to cover the next part of "essential tools" after these

[@tobiasl-d7331]

Several years after receiving them, I still use the free MBUK Magazine Alan Key set haha

[@artmallory970]

another way of measuring chain wear is to measure out 24 links (12 external links) and when it starts approaching 300mm replace the chain, 303-305mm & you'll need to replace the chain & cassette.

[@koko-lores]

The time that takes may be worth more than the costs of a simple chain checking tool.

[@willian.direction6740]

good work Doddy

[@MrHeepspo]

"only a rich man buys cheap tools". Wise words

[@Irogee]

Never heard a easier way to become a rich man.

[@christophermikrowelle7093]

*"We are not rich enough to buy poor quality."* That's how we express this in my Country.

[@jamiedoyle2813]

Great vid

[@colosabeastepic8670]

I have that exact multi tool

[@tylermorgan6020]

Love the videos and all the tips keep it up

[@gmbntech]

+Tyler Morgan thanks Tyler!

[@maxjamieson3341]

Why are presta valves referred to as high pressure valve when a shrader ( I know it's spelt wrong) holds just as much pressure but in a more punishing environment ie on a car or van?

[@gmbntech]

A very good question indeed...

[@daiwa16]

#askGMBNtech Doddy, would you use the cable cutters for cutting hoses and outer cable?

[@jordanmyers6741]

Yay i own something gmbn does the same exact shock pump

[@tylermorgan6020]

Love the videos and tips keep it up

[@aaronmouldey2253]

Great video Doddy, love the new channel. I've a couple of questions for you: firstly, I assume that it's okay to use cable cutters to cut the gear cable outer housing as well as the actual inner cable itself, but is it all right to use cable cutters to cut hydraulic brake hose? Or is there another tool that should be used? Secondly, I've got a creaky press fit bottom bracket. I removed it, cleaned it up a bit and as the bearings felt completely smooth I reinstalled it. But, it stills creaks a bit. Apparently there is a Loctite product that can be used to help lock the bearing into the frame. Do you know which Loctite product I should use? Thanks.

[@Joe-mans]

Hi doddy what GCSEs did you take I am 14 and choosing them

[@markwilson7013]

Should have a 'Tool of the Week' feature (I don't mean myself 😅), were you show some of the more obscure tools you don't see in day to day use.

[@unbendingwalnut9215]

#Askgmbntech I have an old rockshox judy tt it is coil sprung. Do you think it is a good idea to upgrade?

[@LordOfReaping]

How reliable is the pressure gauge on shock pumps? Because i'm using a rock shox shock pump for my shock and the pressure seems to fluctuate + - 50 psi when i check the pressure or when i pump it up. Does some pressure get lost when you remove the shock pump?

[@lawrencepitman4044]

something is very wrong if it fluctuates by 50psi, some air can leak out of the valve if its not tightened properly (if you arent confident in wrenching then get a bike shop to look at it). my shock needs topping up by 10psi or so every other month though. The air you here escaping when you remove the hose is just air thats in the hose itself, so you wont lose pressure from this. Hope this helped

[@martincantwell2557]

desert season never trust them, mine miss reads by about 30%...get a digital gauge.. Only way to go

[@LordOfReaping]

thanks. I'm going to put a new schrader valve in and see if that helps.

[@AlvaroQF]

I use an RS pump, which is quite accurate. I measure the pressure with a Topeak SmartGauge D2 to be sure, super accurate, loses 1PSI every time you make a reading. Both are worth ~60€ in total, never had problems, great purchase, specially the SmartGauge.

[@koko-lores]

Air will be released from your fork/shock when you screw on the pump (air inside the shock will fill the pump hose). Air should not be released when you remove the pump - what you hear is the air being released out of the hose. You can test if your setup works by (a) attaching the pump but not screwing it tight => air should be released out of your pump, air flowing for a long time, and (b) after pumping up, unscrew the pump until you hear air being released, then wait => if the air stops after a second or so, it was only air in the hose that was released, if air continuously flows out (and your shock looses air => more sag), something is wrong, probably the pump. It CAN be that the pump needs to be screwed onto the valve in two steps, first holding it onto the valve, then screwing a different part to get through the valve core. It happened to me that both parts were stuck together and air was released from the shock when screwing/unscrewing the pump - check your pump instructions in that case.

[@SmileyBoy84]

I got a pump from LIDL👌

[@SvensonGus]

That mini pump with the flip attachment to the valve looks really good. What brand and model is that?

[@Timjh]

Gustav Svenson Topeak is make and one of the MTB Morph models.

[@SvensonGus]

Tim Zangolin - thanks, been really annoyed with my screw on pump I use to have with me on the rides. Not so fun to fiddle with in the cold winter and having the presta valve unscrew 😡

[@sausage9455]

Gcn disagrees with Doddy about using dish soap for cleaning, they say its fine to use and insist the salts in there are non-corrosive. I've starting using it again (i should never of stopped as ive never had a rust or corrosion problem) and im saving loads of money doing it. 1 more thing i sort of disagree with is the allen key i think everyone should buy a quality set straight away, i have had cheap sets and they can round off and damage your bike the very first time u use them in some cases.

[@johncarrington8612]

Add the tool to release power links on your chain to the list.

[@PietroPLsz]

You can just use your shoelace :)

[@charlesthesprocket2668]

PietroPLsz no chance, there‘s only one way *cable* *ties*

[@PietroPLsz]

Boom cable ties

[@Dude-Smellmyhelmet]

Just don't use the snap link.... get a chainbreak

[@danp2509]

Dude, smell my helmet masterlinks r much more convenient than using a chain tool. A master link can be undone in 5 seconds and set back together in 5 seconds. I don’t know anyone who can break a chain in a total of 10 seconds

[@aidenrobertson947]

Can someone please suggest a MTB channel that has step by step guides on MTB maintenance

[@David-qu3jz]

A few drops of washing up liquid mixed with water is the way to go, as long as you rinse it off right after washing the whole bike. Even Nino's mechanic(Yanick) washes Nino's race bike with washing up liquid. So,I guess it's not that harmful, and it's way more cheaper than that super expensive "formulated" bike cleaner. In the end, they're both detergents. :))

[@koko-lores]

Pro cyclists all use pressure hoses to clean their bikes. I guess they don't care that much about harming their bikes.

[@David-qu3jz]

They do care:)). But washing up liquid can't damage any of your bike parts if you rinse it all of with water.

[@buckrodgers3096]

Have to say ... I bought a Park Tools track pump (PFP-8), assuming the quality would be beyond question or doubt, but the pressure gauge on it is miles out ... reads 20 PSI when my digital pressure gauge says it's 34PSI, and at 2 BAR (29 PSI) it's actually just over 40 PSI ... really disappointed!

[@buckrodgers3096]

Sure it's probably possible ... but if it was a fault I'd have expected the gauge not to work at all rather than just be half a mile out. Either way, not much I can do about it now is probably out of warranty. I just mentally adjust the scale (I find a reading of around 1 BAR feels right on the tyre) ... I have the digital gauge and another slightly more accurate Blackburn track pump so I make do. Was just disappointing is all.

[@definitelyabot]

But which mini pump u are using And the big heavy duty pump

[@koko-lores]

The big gun pump looked like a Topeak JoeBlow Booster

[@MarinStipkovic]

I love the tone of disbelief when you said "twelve speed" and your face after you said it...

[@jimbest2448]

A cup of tea isn't close to my first choice of beverage after a ride. And here in Canada we get more snow than mud in most winters, it's way easier to clean the bike. just let the snow melt and re-lube and your ready for the next ride.

[@koko-lores]

Same here, but I tend to use a street broom first to remove the snow lumps first

[@nickwatkins5227]

Good morning. You Yangs Australia 👀

[@mxrider2strokebraaap54]

Nice vid

[@nickwatkins5227]

Please help I want to buy a pair of five ten freeride shows online my foot measures 270mm or 27 centimetres what size should I order any advise would be greatly appreciated. You Yangs Australia 👀

[@nickwatkins5227]

Kyle Sandilands That bad is it ☹️

[@Ceetvair]

Every time KZbin puts this vid in my suggestions list I'm like "OH GOD! WHAT IS HE DOING TO HIS EYE?!?! ... oh it's Doddy again ..."

[@thetimkatt819]

Tea after a ride?? You misspelled beer Doddy.

[@christophermikrowelle7093]

A custom Multi-Tool would be great. Why should I carry 2 to 8mm Hex keys when I just have 4 and 5 mm on my bike. May be a manufacturer is listening :-)

[@rony_ftw]

i hate when I see people using torx for allen keys or opposite, you can find decent set of allen key set for $25

[@AlvaroQF]

Talking about 5 essential tools while he has all the ParkTool tools that we all wish we could afford. Not fair... 😂

[@PietroPLsz]

#1- Zip ties!

[@candeniztuncaelli]

I really very like👍🏻🚲💨🔧😊

[@gmbntech]

+Candeniz Tuncaelli thanks!

[@donaldryder5534]

Track pump = floor pump in the US

[@matthawes57]

Doddy the ledge

[@johnbouttell5827]

Hi Doddy, please do a review of RIPROW. I haven't got one but it would be helpful to hear what you think of it. Here's the link: riprow.com/

[@timmcdroid8069]

I was expecting future trends of gear parts etc in mtb and a time lapse of part developement is a cool idea..What your doing is GMBN rehash as Neil and companions have a fist full of MTB Maintenance tips..So I hope you can seperate your channel from the dirt shed show and past channel plots and find a fresh direction. Ex.Bluetooth Mtb Valves that transmit tire pressures...Quad brakes why are they neccessay and who needs them..Graphite carbon that'can carry current..Raceface rally parts for 2018The future of electronics on MTBsDrones that lastTodays MTBs be todays standards are 30 yrs behind in our tech world..WhyA Video game that hlps Mtb techniqueAnnual Mtb conventions..Where are they held..When ..What to expect..List dates..places times across the world.Apps like trailfirks and Strava..How to use the apps and why we would use apps when riding..A decent Gps tracking device as a lot of us are city dwellers and theft is a big issue as thieves are more bold than ever as our courts are a joke because of lawyers and 2 truths..Also bike theft isn't thought of as serious..We must protect ourselves..GPS Tracker through google maps no subscription..Why mtb serial numbers are not stamped on giant ands its a paper code under lacquer..Maestro suspension has a utube vid saying why maestro the best and shows many different bike brand suspensions that are shitty..Is it true and if not tell us about pivot developement and location choises.. Lastly to build a bike from scratch pivot desigb is first thing to consider be4 buying a frame..Once frame is bought a rear shock must be tuned for that frame..Front fork can only be a certain height so geometry stays within specs and the height and weight of rider will affect sizing and image of rider on bike..Anyone over 6 ft 29er with xl frame short stem wide bars will suit the riders needs compared to 5.5 guy where 27.5 will suit their needss..So good luck .hope to see future of mtb tech and what's available now.. Tim McDroid

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Do NOT use dish soap to wash your bike (I see that recommendation a lot), especially if you have a carbon bike. Carbon has UV protection for the glues in the carbon. Dish soap will cut through that over time and the UV from the sun will begin to break down the glue.

[@earlgrey1492]

So will wiping it down with alcohol? Most frames are painted anyway.

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Earl Grey yes they are painted. Dish soap is specifically designed to cut through grease and what not, which strips away at the coating, which also eventually does damage to the paint. Ask any car guy

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Earl Grey you shouldn't be using alcohol on anything but the brake rotors anyway

[@sean0611]

RedWings-44 and for aluminium frames?

[@RedWingsninetyone]

Sean same principle but you don't have to worry about the resin. Just the paint and finish

[@Prog47]

I got my floor pump for 15 euros. That's nothing compared to the cost of a bike.

[@innertubelyfe2780]

Is there a tool for fixing my marriage?

[@cliffsangelsphotography]

Innertube Lyfe cable ties

[@garygilbert1127]

it's in your pants bro......called a wallet lol

[@Dude-Smellmyhelmet]

yes. The bike itself. Just ride away.....

[@MarcinDobija]

Yes, it is called divorce! and then marry your bike

[@aminrazawan482]

Two ways: 1: Bikes 2: your mind

[@mopedking3155]

Who needs a pump when I've got a can of wd40 and a lighter

[@aminrazawan482]

Next time be careful not to get your house on fire.

[@aidenrobertson947]

The only thing about setting up a bike for me is I don’t have a clue about bikes

[@jwmann]

Is spraying WD-40 on my drivetrain after cleaning my bike right (before lubing my chain) really that necessary? Seems a little overkill just to get some water out. Definitely NOT essential 'kit' for cleaning your bike. Those components are pretty tough. Though I'd probably do it to if I were sponsored by WD-40.

[@fathernojoy2706]

James Mann I hope you realize that all of these channels have sponsors. Doddy did not say anything about needing to purchase wd40 just recommended something for water displacement. These vids are for all levels of experience of MTBrs’. It baffles me why viewers feel it necessary to write snarky overly critical comments that provide no value for other users. #attentionseekingtroll

[@DephroX]

Not asif it's expensive, may aswell

[@jwmann]

I have no problem with them having sponsors but sponsors should be disclosed, see the FTC rules and regulations for Endorsements for more information. The title of this video is '5 Essential Tools You Need To Work On Your Mountain Bike', the only tools you need to clean your bike is a bucket, a rag and some diluted soap. WD-40 is not even close essential. Just bounce your bike on the ground, wipe it down with a dry rag and let it air dry.

[@gmbntech]

+James Mann spraying water displacer on your bike/some spray lube is necessary to extend the life of many of your components. We're always up front about our sponsorships, too and we're not told what to say by the brands that we work with. Cheers!

[@jwmann]

Thanks for the reply! I don't doubt that your advice is genuine at all. I can't seem find any mention in the description or in the video about your sponsorship though. Last year I bought a Crankbrothers dropper post for the sole reason you had one on your bike and you must use it because it's good; even though I'm certain GMBN was sponsored by Crankbrothers as well. Just a little more transparency is all I'm looking for.