Motorcycle Mechanics: Toolbox Essentials
by Editor on 04/24/14
Motorcycle Mechanics: Toolbox Essentials
The best way to prevent small problems on the road from turning into big ones is to always carry a tool kit. Assuming that your bike is in good working order before you set off, these tools will take care of almost any situation that arises when you're out and about. It's time to find a retailer like SGS Engineering Solutions, get yourself kitted out and hit the highway.
#1 Fold-Up Allen Wrench
Cheap, easy to find and useful whenever you need to remove or tighten the fasteners on your bike, an allen wrench is essential. You need to make sure that you get one which fits the parts of your bike, so look for metric or AMSE types.
#2 Combo Screwdriver
Choose a version which is pocket sized and as thin as possible to ensure that you can access even the tightest areas. If you can find one with a magnet at one end, even better - this will help you to locate any fasteners that fall into small spaces.
#3 Pliers
Small pliers are the best, as your kit should be as compact as possible for ease of travelling. Pliers will give you good grip, and can help straighten, tighten and hold parts and fasteners.
#4 Adjustable Wrench
Again, go for the smallest you can find, but check that it will still fit the fasteners before you buy. Know your motorcycle to get a good idea of what you need: some bolts may only be accessible by sockets, in which case, carry the right sizes of those and a small pocket wrench, possibly an extender too.
#5 Battery Cables
If you have a flat battery, these cables will get you going again. Attach them to another bike's battery for a boost. In an emergency they can also be hooked up to a car battery, although the engine should not be switched on as there will be sufficient power in the battery without starting the car. Lightweight cables can be rolled up tightly and stashed somewhere on your bike, which makes them a great solution.
#6 Spare Fuses and Bulbs
Make sure that you pick up the right size and spec for your bike. Fuses and bulbs are small, cheap and often come in a convenient case to keep them together and protect them from damage, making them easy to transport.
#7 Tyre Repair Kit
