What size Allen keys do you need for a bike?

HEX TOOLS Once you own a Y hex wrench, you’ll never want to be without one. It’s made up of 4-, 5- and 6mm hex wrenches (the sizes needed for most bike repairs), and the convenient shape provides ample leverage on most bicycle fasteners.

What tools are needed to service a bike?

Bike Tools for Routine Maintenance

• Allen® wrench set (ranging from 2-12mm in size)
• Open end wrenches (6-17mm)
• Chain brush.
• Chain lube and cleaner.
• Clean rags.
• Tire levers.
• Tubes (at least a couple spares)
• Tube patch kit.

What is an allen key used for on a bike?

A set of ball-ended Allen keys will make it easier to get at bolts in awkward positions. Pedal spanner: Most makes of pedals require a 15mm spanner. Pedal spanners are thinner than normal spanners so that they can slide in between the pedal and the crank (Time pedals are secured using a 6mm Allen key).

Do bikes use metric Allen keys?

The bike industry is metric. For home use, a full set of metric allen wrenches is great. For bringing with you, there are a lot of multi-tools that will fit in your pocket and provide all the help you need on the road.

Is Hex same as Allen?

A hex key, also known as an Allen key or Allen wrench, is a small handheld tool that’s used for for driving bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket. They are available in many different sizes, though they all have the same hexagonal-shaped tip. To learn more about hex keys and the benefits they offer, keep reading.

Why do bikes use hex keys?

Popular in motorsport applications, the T-handle acts as a balanced weight to help you spin the wrench quickly, while allowing enough leverage for common usage. Some areas of the bike won’t suit a T-handle (such as adjusting most seatposts) while cranks and pedals will often be too tight for common T-handles.

How do I build my own bicycle?

How To Build Your Own Bike (And Why You Should Do It)

1. Step 1: The Frame.
2. Step 2: The Fork.
3. Step 3: The Headset.
4. Step 4: The Stem.
5. Step 4 ½: The Quill Stem.
6. Step 5: The handlebars, shifters, and brake levers.
7. Step 6: The Brakes.
8. Step 7: Wheels and Tires.

How often should bike be serviced?

After the free service period ends, most users will move on to get service from trusted local mechanics, which is convenient and cheaper for owners. Also, at this point, one need not adhere to very stringent service intervals. However, servicing your bike every 2 months or 2,000 KM remains advisable.

What can use instead of Allen key?

Sometimes you can use small types of flat headed screwdrivers as an allen wrench by putting the end in the socket so that the 2 edges of the screwdriver work as leverage in the hole to turn it. A wider socket on the bolt or nut, use a wider flathead screwdriver.

How do I get an Allen key?

How to Make an Emergency Hex Key / Allen Wrench

1. Step 1: Materials: 1) A Pencil (hexagonal barrel) 2) A Knife.
2. Step 2: Make. Cut off the end of the pencil.
3. Step 3: Big Emotional Payoff! Insert your new allen wrench into the bolt head.

How do I tighten my Allen key?

Allen keys work like most other screwdrivers and wrenches but with a few nuances. You can use them by placing one of the ends inside a fastener with a hexagonal socket head and turning it. Turning the Allen key clockwise will tighten the fastener, whereas turning it counterclockwise will loosen or remove the fastener.

Why do Allen keys have a ball end?

The ball end makes it easier to slide the key into the receiving slot. It allows you to reach at an offset 30 degree angle so that you can feel your way to the needed position much faster – great for blind or difficult areas to reach or if the bolt or screw is close to an obstruction on one side.

What is a hex key set used for?

A hex key or Allen key is a simple tool used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. The tool is usually formed of a single piece of hexagonal rod of hard steel, with blunt ends that are meant to fit snugly into the screw’s socket, bent in an “L” shape with unequal arms.

Are bike tools metric?

On one bicycle, you will see both the metric and SAE system. Most threading is metric, but not all. Components will be fitted with metric fasteners using metric wrench sizing, but the chain is a one-half inch pitch. Ball bearings on a bike are inch sized, from as small as 1/16th-inch up to 5/16-inch.