Mechanics Tips (Women)

Agree totally with this. Most high quality spanners like Facom, Teng, Halfords Professional (thats not a piss take btw) have slim jaws that fit pedals well. Never owned a pedal spanner in my own tool set - simply not needed.

I do think that most 'specialist' bicycle tools are overpriced tat - for example you can get this http://www.tooled-up.com/Product.asp?PID=62927 for less than many pedal spanners, and it will last a lifetime. If it doesn't - there's a lifetime warranty backing it up.

http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/pro139-16pce-metric-hex-torx-hey-set/path/screwdrivers-bits-hex-key-sets-2 is another great example. This 'specialist version' http://www.wiggle.co.uk/p/cycle/7/Pedros_Pro_Hex_T~L_Wrench_Set/5360049486/ is 20 quid more.

It is a pleasure to work with decent tools - spend a little money on key items and they will last a lifetime. Often people who will spend fortunes on tat like carbon fibre headset caps will baulk at the price of a decent spanner or screwdriver.

You are right on the money. A lot of bike tools are just stamped junk. I too have found the Halfords pro tools to be great.

I find that most stiff fasteners can be loosened with a gentle tap on the tool with a hand, rubber mallet, or a dead blow hammer. Use Plus Gas first on rusted fasteners (not so likely on a cycle). "Cheater" bars are fine but can move you too far away from the action.

Like all things working on your bike becomes better with practice.