Spanners

[kayaker]

Am looking at getting some spanners, what sizes are required for bicycles?

Anyone got any ratchet spanners? recommend any makes (ratchet or otherwise) dont mind buying good tools to last.

 

[topcat1]

what type of bike are you riding? most bikes these day use allen keys

 

[kayaker]

I do have a newish bike, but have an old frame also.

 

[HovR]

I do have a newish bike, but have an old frame also.

Agreed, most new bikes use allen keys. Is your old bike frame without components? If you were to build it up with modern components, it would also need primarily allen keys.

The only thing I can think you might use a spanner for (off the top of my head) are the wheel nuts on non-QR wheels - Normally 14 and 15mm.

 

[djb1971]

Hydraulic disc brakes use a spanner. 7mm I think.

 

[mrandmrspoves]

A good set of combination ratchet spanners are a worthwhile investment for general fettling of brakes etc. I have a set of Halfords professionals which despite being Hellfrauds are very good! They're expensive unless bought on special offer. Worth buying the individual sizes you need off eBay rather than a set. 7mm for hydraulics and 9mm and 10mm are used for many cable brakes. Silverline are a reasonable cheap brand and will set you back about £4 each for a flexible head .

 

[simon.r]

Another vote for Halfords Professional ratchet spanners. Excellent quality and a life time guarantee. £40 for 8 different spanners not a bad price IMO.

Park Allen Keys are also excellent quality - not cheap, but it depends what price you put on skimmed knucles when poor quality allen keys round off and slip!

 

[jifdave]

id pop yourself to your local aldi, get a tool kit for £20, that'll get you started.