Circlip pliers

Circlip pliers: the essential tool for precise bicycle maintenance

When it comes to regular bike maintenance, we often think of tire levers, a torque wrench, or specific screwdrivers for the drivetrain. But there’s one tool that’s often forgotten, even though it’s crucial for working on certain mechanical parts: circlip pliers.

What are circlip pliers ?

Circlip pliers are a precision tool designed to install or remove retaining rings, also known as circlips. These small metal rings are used to secure components exposed to rotation, such as certain bottom bracket axles, wheel hubs, or internal parts of geared hubs.

The tool is made of two articulated arms with fine, purpose-built jaws that grip the circlips firmly without damaging the parts. Unlike standard pliers, circlip pliers are specifically engineered to avoid deforming the retaining ring.

Why use circlip pliers on a bike ?

In bicycle mechanics, some components need to be removed carefully to prevent premature wear or damage. Here are the main benefits of using proper circlip pliers:

• Precise handling when disassembling hubs or internal bearings.

• Protection of components – no scratches on surfaces or axles.

• Safety – prevents slipping caused by unsuitable tools.

• Time-saving during assembly and disassembly.

• Clean and professional results, just like in a repair workshop.

Key features of quality circlip pliers

For bicycle use, it’s recommended to choose circlip pliers with the following characteristics:

Internal vs external circlip pliers: which one to choose ?

There are two main types:

• Internal circlip pliers: designed to expand the ring and insert it inside a housing (common on wheel bearings or certain hubs).

• External circlip pliers: used to compress the ring and fit it around an axle or on top of a bearing.

In a well-equipped bike workshop, mechanics often use a kit with interchangeable tips or heads to cover all standard diameters found on road bikes, MTBs, or gravel bikes.

When do you use circlip pliers on a bicycle ?

Here are a few situations where this tool becomes essential:

• Disassembly of a traditional ball-bearing hub

• Servicing an old-style cartridge bottom bracket

• Opening an internal gear hub

• Access to internal wheel bearings

• Maintenance of suspension pivot axles on MTBs

A tool often missing from the bike toolbox

Today, it’s easy to find tire levers, Allen keys, thin open-end wrenches, and chain tools, but circlip pliers are rarely included in a cyclist’s basic toolkit. However, for those who want to go beyond standard maintenance—lubrication, chain tension, brake bleeding—this precision tool quickly becomes indispensable.

Final thoughts

Adding circlip pliers to your collection of bicycle tools is a step toward professional-level maintenance and long-lasting care of your mechanical components. Whether you love restoring vintage bikes or just enjoy detailed mechanical work, this tool will let you handle the most delicate internal parts with confidence.