Bicycles/Maintenance and Repair/Tools and Supplies/Repair Stand

Though not essential, a stand to support the bicycle is very useful. A Black and Decker Workmate or similar does a fairly good job. The bicycle is turned upside down and held in the jaws of the Workmate. Cheap Workmate imitations don't have a wide base, so the original device with the wide legs is handy to prevent toppling. This is used especially for adjusting the gears or for fixing punctures, when the wheels need to be removed. It is also handy for any jobs involving removing the chain or working on the gears, since it brings the workspace up off the ground, hence the repairer does not need to crouch. A car-mounted bicycle rack can be used as a repair for some activities, particularly derailleur adjustments.