Basic tools for home maintenance

Whether it’s to save money, stay on top of regular maintenance or just to get to know your bike better, having the tools to tackle basic maintenance at home is a good move.

But walk into any tool shop and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when the tools you think you need might not even fit your bike.

That’s because different makes, models and even eras of bikes can require different tools for the same job.

But you don’t need to spend a fortune or fill a garage with gear to get started.

Before you buy anything, take a good look at your bike. Is it fitted with mostly Allen bolts or hex heads? Are the fasteners metric or imperial? Does it use a centrestand, or will you need a paddock stand to lift the rear wheel? Even basic jobs like removing the seat or checking the chain tension can require different tools depending on the make, model and age of the bike.

Some older model Japanese bikes, for example, rely heavily on JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard) screw heads that look like Phillips but are prone to stripping if you use the wrong driver. European bikes might throw in the occasional Torx fastener, while older British or American models could still use imperial sizes.

Knowing what’s actually on your bike helps avoid wasting money on the wrong gear and makes sure that what you buy will actually fit – it’s very easy to damage a screw with an ill-fitting driver, but very difficult to remove!

If in doubt, start with the owner’s manual. It’ll often include the most common fastener types and some will even list basic tools needed for routine maintenance.

Once you’ve scoped out what your bike actually needs, it’s time to start building a toolkit. The good news is that for most bikes the same handful of tools will cover 80 per cent of basic jobs, from adjusting the chain to removing the tank or changing the oil.

A decent socket set is a smart starting point, ideally with a mix of sizes and a solid ratchet. A small, flexible ratchet can help with tight spaces and add a set of open-ended or ring spanners in matching sizes, and a set of T-handle Allen (hex) keys.

Make sure they’re metric unless your bike is an exception, and don’t be tempted by bargain-basement sets, as cheap tools can round off bolts and cause more trouble than they solve.

You’ll also want a screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead), a tyre pressure gauge, a soft-bristled brush for chain cleaning, a funnel and a few rags or old towels. A rear paddock stand or centrestand makes chain and wheel maintenance much easier, and if your bike doesn’t have either, it’s worth the investment.

A small torque wrench is also worth having; it takes the guesswork out of tightening bolts to spec and helps avoid overtightening fasteners.

Beyond the tools themselves, having a container for drained fluids (like oil or coolant), some gloves and a few small tubs or trays for holding removed bolts can help keep the workspace tidy and prevent you spending more time looking for things than actually doing things.

Once you’ve got the basics sorted, it’s worth thinking about the types of jobs you’re planning to tackle. You don’t need to buy everything at once; start with the work you’re comfortable doing, then build from there.

Chain maintenance is one of the simplest and most important jobs. You’ll need a rear stand (unless your bike has a centrestand), a chain cleaning brush, a chain-specific cleaner (don’t use a standard petroleum-based degreaser, they’re not safe for use on O-ring chains) and some chain lube.

To adjust your chain, you’ll need spanners to match your axle nut and adjusters – which can vary widely in size – plus a tape measure or alignment tool to keep things straight.

Oil changes require a socket or spanner to remove the sump plug, a catch tray for the old oil, a rag and a funnel. Some bikes also require an oil filter removal tool, depending on placement and type. Don’t forget to have the correct replacement sump plug washer or O-ring on hand too.

Maintaining correct tyre pressures is quick, easy and essential as it has a big impact on handling, tyre wear and braking performance. For this you’ll need a reliable pressure gauge (digital is best, but a good-quality analogue one will suffice) and access to an air compressor. This can be a mini electric 12V or USB-powered inflator, an air compressor or a regular visit to the servo. If it’s the latter, always use your own gauge.

Minor electrical work is becoming more common, especially if you’re fitting accessories like camera and phone mounts, heated grips or trickle chargers. A multimeter can be handy if you’re chasing a flat battery or checking voltage at the terminals. But for the most part, a few cable ties, a pair of side cutters and some electrical tape are great for securing wires, routing cables or keeping things out of harm’s way.

Doing your own maintenance can be satisfying, cost-effective and a great way to increase your knowledge, but it’s important to understand where the limits are, especially when it comes to warranty coverage.

Most new-bike warranties won’t be voided just because you’ve picked up a spanner. In fact, many routine tasks like checking chain tension, topping up fluids or maintaining tyre pressure are considered owner responsibilities. But if something goes wrong and there’s evidence that poor workmanship or incorrect parts caused the issue, your claim may be denied.

To stay on the safe side, keep a few key things in mind. If your bike’s still under warranty, follow the servicing schedule and have the minor and major services completed by your dealer.

Use parts and fluids that meet or exceed the manufacturer’s specifications; this might mean using genuine filters instead of aftermarket options, and can include oil grades and even things like coolant. Check your owner’s manual before you start and keep detailed records of what you did and when, including receipts for parts and consumables.

And if in doubt, check with your dealer. Many are happy to support riders carrying out basic maintenance, especially when it’s done carefully and properly documented.

Basic tools for home maintenance