Essential Tools Starter Pack

Non-Negotiable Tools (You’ll Actually Use all the time)

These tools aren’t fancy, and sadly I can’t 3D-print them but you’ll use them on almost every brand whenever you rebuild suspension. You probably already have most of these tools.

Core Essentials

  • Bench Vise : Nothing substitutes holding parts steady.
  • Spray Bottle with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol inside: Non-negotiable for using shaft clamps.Β 
  • Chamferless Sockets
  • Shock Pump (up to β‰₯300 psi) : Any standard pump for air shocks will work.
  • Bleed Kit with Fittings & Syringes
    • Syringes β‰₯20 ml capacity
    • Long flexible tubing for forks like Cane Creek DB IL
    • Affordable kit (Has the best syringes in my opinion)

  • Syringes with Tubing for Lower-Leg Service
    • At least 100 ml capacity
    • Thumb-ring style preferred
  • Torque Wrench (Low Range 2-20Nm) or Luggage Scale
    • Torques on small shafts and threads require very precise torque.
    • Luggage-scale trick explained here

Hand & Detail Tools

  • Seal Picks : For removing seals and O-rings without damage.
  • Rubber Gloves : Essential for bleeding most shocks with the glove technique.
  • Sockets 7–19 mm
  • Spanners 7–24 mm
  • Allen Key Set
  • Torx Key Set
  • Strap Wrench
  • Adjustable Spanner (up to 32 mm)
  • Wood Stud (~30 cm Γ— Β½β€³ thick) : Backing block for pressing small parts.
  • Small Plastic Pan : For catching oil.
    Always dispose of used oil at your local bike shop!

Lubricants & Fluids