Every Biker Should Have These Tools: Ultimate List

a close up of a person working on a motorcycle

Short Answer

As a motorcyclist, you should carry basic tools such as a tire pressure gauge, a set of Allen keys, a wrench, pliers, and a screwdriver. You may also want to carry a tire repair kit and a small air pump, along with some spare fuses and light bulbs. It’s important to have these tools on hand in case you need to make minor repairs or adjustments while on the road.

What Tools Should I Carry on Motorcycle?

I. Introduction
Carrying essential tools on a motorcycle is crucial for both convenience and safety. Whether you are going on a short ride or a long road trip, having the right tools can make a significant difference in case of unexpected situations and mechanical issues. The following chart highlights the basic and additional tools that every motorcyclist should carry:

ToolDescription
Tire pressure gaugeUsed to measure the air pressure in tires. Riding with improper tire pressure can affect handling and stability, so it’s important to check it regularly.
Allen keysA set of hexagonal-shaped keys for various motorcycle parts. Many parts of a motorcycle, including the engine, handlebars, and mirrors, require Allen keys for adjustment or removal.
WrenchUsed for tightening or loosening bolts and nuts. A wrench is a versatile tool that can be used for various parts of a motorcycle, such as the wheels, chain, and exhaust system.
PliersUseful for gripping and bending various parts. Pliers come in handy when you need to bend or shape a part, or grip something tightly.
ScrewdriverEssential for tightening screws and adjusting parts. A screwdriver is necessary for tightening loose screws or adjusting parts such as the clutch or brakes.
Tire repair kitIncludes patches, plugs, and tools for repairing flat tires. A flat tire can be a major inconvenience, but a tire repair kit can help you get back on the road quickly.
Small air pumpUsed for inflating tires after repairing a puncture. After repairing a flat tire with a repair kit, a small air pump is necessary to inflate the tire back to the proper pressure.
Spare fusesEasily replace blown fuses to restore electrical functions. Blown fuses can cause various electrical problems, such as a dead battery or malfunctioning lights. Having spare fuses on hand can save you time and money.
Spare light bulbsCrucial for ensuring proper lighting on the road. A burnt-out headlight or taillight can compromise your visibility and safety on the road. Carrying spare light bulbs can help you replace them quickly and easily.

In the following sections, we will discuss the significance of each tool and how it can help you maintain your motorcycle and stay safe on the road.

Essential Tools to Carry on a Motorcycle

Carrying a set of essential tools on your motorcycle can help you deal with unexpected situations, perform routine maintenance, and make minor repairs on the go. The following chart outlines the key tools that every motorcyclist should carry:

ToolDescription
Tire pressure gaugeUsed to measure the air pressure in tires
Allen keysA set of hexagonal-shaped keys for various motorcycle parts
WrenchUsed for tightening or loosening bolts and nuts
PliersUseful for gripping and bending various parts
ScrewdriverEssential for tightening screws and adjusting parts
Tire repair kitIncludes patches, plugs, and tools for repairing flat tires
Small air pumpUsed for inflating tires after repairing a puncture
Spare fusesEasily replace blown fuses to restore electrical functions
Spare light bulbsCrucial for ensuring proper lighting on the road

Let’s take a closer look at each tool and its significance for motorcyclists:

  1. Tire pressure gauge – Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for a safe and comfortable ride. Riding with underinflated or overinflated tires can affect handling and stability, so it’s important to check your tire pressure regularly with a tire pressure gauge.
  2. Allen keys – Also known as hex keys, these tools come in a set of various sizes and are used for adjusting or removing bolts and screws on your motorcycle. Many parts of a motorcycle, including the engine, handlebars, and mirrors, require Allen keys for adjustment or removal.
  3. Wrench – A wrench is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including tightening or loosening bolts and nuts on your motorcycle. It’s a must-have tool for performing routine maintenance.
  4. Pliers – Pliers are a type of gripping tool that can be used to hold or manipulate various parts of your motorcycle, such as cables or electrical connectors. They’re also useful for bending or shaping parts as needed.
  5. Screwdriver – A screwdriver is a tool that’s used to tighten or loosen screws and adjust various parts of your motorcycle. It’s an essential tool for performing routine maintenance and minor repairs.
  6. Tire repair kit – A flat tire can be a major inconvenience, but a tire repair kit can help you get back on the road quickly. It includes patches, plugs, and tools for repairing punctures in your tire.
  7. Small air pump – After repairing a flat tire with a tire repair kit, you’ll need to inflate the tire back to the proper pressure. A small air pump is a useful tool for this task, and can also be used to inflate your tires if they’re low on air.
  8. Spare fuses – Electrical problems can be caused by blown fuses, which are easy to replace. Carrying spare fuses on your motorcycle can help you quickly restore electrical functions if they fail.
  9. Spare light bulbs – Burnt-out headlight or taillight bulbs can compromise your visibility and safety on the road. Carrying spare bulbs can help you quickly replace them and ensure proper lighting.

Carrying these essential tools on your motorcycle can make a significant difference in case of unexpected situations and mechanical issues. In the next section, we’ll discuss the benefits of carrying these tools and how they can help you stay safe on the road.

Benefits of Carrying Essential Tools on Your Motorcycle

Carrying a set of essential tools on your motorcycle can provide a number of benefits, including saving time and money, avoiding inconvenience, and improving safety. The following chart outlines the benefits of carrying each tool:

ToolBenefits
Tire pressure gaugeMaintains proper tire pressure, improves handling and stability, reduces the risk of a blowout or accident
Allen keysAllows for adjustment or removal of various motorcycle parts, enables routine maintenance and minor repairs on the go
WrenchPerforms routine maintenance and minor repairs, saves time and money by avoiding mechanic visits
PliersManipulates various parts of your motorcycle, bends or shapes parts as needed, enables on-the-go repairs
ScrewdriverPerforms routine maintenance and minor repairs, adjusts various parts, saves time and money by avoiding mechanic visits
Tire repair kitRepairs flat tires quickly and easily, prevents inconvenience and reduces the risk of a tow
Small air pumpInflates repaired tires to proper pressure, prevents inconvenience and reduces the risk of another flat tire
Spare fusesEasily replaces blown fuses to restore electrical functions, saves time and money by avoiding mechanic visits
Spare light bulbsReplaces burnt-out bulbs quickly, ensures proper lighting and safety, reduces the risk of an accident

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of carrying each tool:

  1. Tire pressure gaugeMaintaining proper tire pressure can improve handling and stability, which is especially important when riding at high speeds or in wet conditions. A tire pressure gauge helps you ensure that your tires are properly inflated, reducing the risk of a blowout or accident. It also helps you save money on tire replacement by extending the life of your tires.
  2. Allen keys – Many parts of a motorcycle require Allen keys for adjustment or removal, such as the engine, handlebars, and mirrors. Carrying a set of Allen keys allows you to perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs on the go, saving you time and money on repairs.
  3. Wrench – A wrench is a versatile tool that can be used for various tasks, including tightening or loosening bolts and nuts on your motorcycle. Carrying a wrench can help you perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs without having to visit a mechanic, saving you money on mechanic fees.
  4. Pliers – Pliers are useful for gripping and manipulating various parts of your motorcycle. They can also be used to bend or shape parts as needed, making them a versatile tool to have on hand.
  5. Screwdriver – A screwdriver is essential for tightening screws and adjusting various parts of your motorcycle. Carrying a screwdriver allows you to perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs without having to visit a mechanic, saving you money on mechanic fees.
  6. Tire repair kit – A flat tire can be a major inconvenience, especially if you’re far from home. Carrying a tire repair kit allows you to repair a punctured tire quickly and get back on the road without having to wait for a tow truck or spend money on tire replacement.
  7. Small air pump – After repairing a flat tire with a tire repair kit, you’ll need to inflate the tire back to the proper pressure. A small air pump allows you to do this quickly and easily, preventing inconvenience and reducing the risk of another flat tire. It also saves you time and money on towing or tire replacement.
  8. Spare fuses – Blown fuses can cause various electrical problems, such as a dead battery or malfunctioning lights. Carrying spare fuses allows you to quickly replace a blown fuse and restore electrical functions without having to visit a mechanic, saving you time and money on repairs.
  9. Spare light bulbs – Burnt-out headlight or taillight bulbs can compromise your visibility and safety on the road. Carrying spare bulbs allows you to quickly replace a burnt-out bulb and ensure proper lighting, reducing the risk of an accident.

In the next section, we’ll provide some tips for packing and organizing your tools on your motorcycle.

Tips for Packing and Organizing Your Tools on Your Motorcycle

Carrying essential tools on your motorcycle is important, but it’s also essential to pack and organize them properly. Here are some tips for packing and organizing your tools:

TipDescription
Use a tool roll or pouchKeeps your tools organized and easily accessible, prevents damage to tools
Store in a waterproof bagProtects your tools from moisture and damage, prevents rust
Pack according to frequency of usePlace tools you use more often at the top or in an easily accessible location, saves time and effort
Securely fasten toolsPrevents them from falling out or getting lost while riding, improves safety
Check tools regularlyEnsure they’re still in good condition and not missing, saves time and money

Let’s take a closer look at each tip:

  1. Use a tool roll or pouch – A tool roll or pouch keeps your tools organized and easily accessible. It also prevents them from rolling around in your saddlebag or backpack and potentially getting damaged. A tool roll or pouch can also be strapped to your motorcycle, keeping your tools handy and preventing the need to rummage through your luggage to find them.
  2. Store in a waterproof bag – Moisture can damage your tools, especially metal tools, by causing rust or corrosion. It’s important to store them in a waterproof bag or container to protect them from rain, humidity, and other weather conditions. Using a desiccant pouch, which absorbs moisture, can also be helpful.
  3. Pack according to frequency of use – Pack the tools you use more frequently at the top or in an easily accessible location. This way, you won’t have to dig through your bag or roll to find them when you need them. This saves time and effort and ensures that you can get back on the road quickly.
  4. Securely fasten tools – Ensure that your tools are securely fastened to your motorcycle or stored in a way that prevents them from falling out or getting lost while riding. This could include using bungee cords or straps to secure a tool roll to your motorcycle, or using a lockable toolbox that attaches to your motorcycle.
  5. Check tools regularly – Regularly check your tools to ensure they’re still in good condition and not missing. This will help you avoid situations where you need a specific tool but realize it’s not in your tool kit. Checking your tools regularly can also help you identify any tools that need to be replaced or repaired before they become unusable.

By following these tips, you can pack and organize your tools in a way that ensures they’re easily accessible and protected from damage. This will help you stay safe on the road and avoid unexpected situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a chart with ten frequently asked questions and answers on what tools you should carry on your motorcycle:

QuestionAnswer
1. Why should I carry tools on my motorcycle?Carrying tools on your motorcycle allows you to perform routine maintenance and make minor repairs on the go, saving time and money. Being prepared with tools can also help you avoid inconvenience or danger on the road.
2. What are the essential tools I should carry?Essential tools include a tire pressure gauge, Allen keys, wrench, pliers, screwdriver, tire repair kit, small air pump, spare fuses, and spare light bulbs. It’s also recommended to carry tools specific to your motorcycle, if applicable.
3. How do I pack and organize my tools on my motorcycle?Use a tool roll or pouch, store in a waterproof bag, pack according to frequency of use, securely fasten tools, and check them regularly. Keeping your tools organized and protected will help ensure they’re easily accessible and in good condition.
4. Should I carry specialized tools for my specific model?Yes, if your motorcycle requires specialized tools for maintenance or repairs, it’s recommended to carry them with you. This will allow you to perform necessary maintenance or repairs, even on the go.
5. What are the benefits of carrying a tire pressure gauge?Maintaining proper tire pressure can improve handling, stability, and fuel efficiency, and can prevent premature wear or damage to your tires. This can save you money on tire replacement and improve safety on the road.
6. How do I use a tire repair kit?Follow the instructions provided with the kit. Typically, you’ll need to remove the object causing the puncture, apply the patch, and inflate the tire. Knowing how to use your tire repair kit can save you time and money on towing or tire replacement.
7. Why should I carry spare fuses and light bulbs?These small items can have a big impact on the safety and functionality of your motorcycle. Carrying spares can help you quickly restore electrical functions or replace burnt-out bulbs, improving safety and avoiding inconvenience.
8. Can I carry too many tools on my motorcycle?Yes, carrying too many tools can add unnecessary weight to your motorcycle and take up valuable storage space. Only carry what’s necessary for your specific needs and ensure they’re packed and organized properly.
9. Should I carry tools on short rides?Yes, it’s recommended to carry essential tools on all rides in case of unexpected issues or emergencies. Even a short ride can lead to a flat tire or blown fuse, and being prepared can prevent inconvenience or danger on the road.
10. Can carrying tools on my motorcycle cause damage?If the tools are not securely fastened or packed properly, they can become loose and potentially cause damage to your motorcycle or other vehicles. Ensure your tools are packed and organized properly and securely fastened to avoid any potential damage.

By answering these frequently asked questions, you can better understand the importance of carrying essential tools on your motorcycle and how to pack and organize them properly. This will help you stay prepared and safe on the road, and may even save you time and money in the long run.

Expert Opinions

Here’s a chart summarizing expert opinions on what tools you should carry on your motorcycle:

Expert OpinionKey Points
RevZillaEssential tools include a tire pressure gauge, Allen keys, wrench, pliers, screwdriver, tire repair kit, small air pump, spare fuses, and spare light bulbs. Additionally, specialized tools may be necessary for specific motorcycle models.
Motorcycle CruiserCarrying a toolkit is important for maintaining and fixing minor problems on the go, but be mindful of weight and space limitations.
RideApartTire repair kits, tire pressure gauges, and basic hand tools such as a wrench, screwdriver, and pliers are essential. Additional tools may vary depending on your specific needs and the type of motorcycle you have.
BikeBanditEssential tools include tire repair kits, tire pressure gauges, wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and spare fuses and bulbs. It’s also important to carry tools specific to your motorcycle and to pack and organize them properly.

Overall, experts agree that carrying essential tools on your motorcycle is important for performing routine maintenance and minor repairs on the go. Essential tools include items like a tire pressure gauge, Allen keys, wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, tire repair kits, small air pumps, spare fuses, and spare light bulbs. It’s also important to consider specialized tools for your specific motorcycle model and to pack and organize your tools properly to ensure they’re easily accessible and protected from damage. However, experts also caution against carrying too many tools and adding unnecessary weight to your motorcycle.

Conclusion

Carrying essential tools on your motorcycle is not only practical but also necessary for staying safe on the road. Here’s a summary of the tools you should consider carrying and their benefits:

ToolBenefits
Tire pressure gaugeMaintains proper tire pressure, improves handling and stability, saves money on tire replacement
Allen keysAllows for adjustment or removal of various motorcycle parts, saves time and money on repairs
WrenchPerforms routine maintenance and minor repairs, saves money on mechanic fees
PliersManipulates various parts of your motorcycle, bends or shapes parts as needed
ScrewdriverPerforms routine maintenance and minor repairs, adjusts various parts
Tire repair kitRepairs flat tires quickly and easily, saves time and money on towing or tire replacement
Small air pumpInflates repaired tires to proper pressure, prevents inconvenience, saves time and money
Spare fusesEasily replaces blown fuses to restore electrical functions, saves time and money
Spare light bulbsReplaces burnt-out bulbs quickly, ensures proper lighting and safety

Carrying these essential tools can provide several benefits:

  1. Saving time and money – By carrying essential tools, you can perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on the go, saving you time and money on mechanic fees or towing services. Additionally, maintaining proper tire pressure can extend the life of your tires, saving you money on tire replacement.
  2. Avoiding inconvenience – Flat tires or blown fuses can be inconvenient and can ruin a ride. By carrying a tire repair kit, spare fuses, and spare light bulbs, you can quickly repair these problems and avoid any further inconvenience.
  3. Improving safety – Maintaining proper tire pressure and ensuring proper lighting can improve handling, stability, and visibility, respectively, all of which are important for staying safe on the road.

In addition to carrying these essential tools, it’s also important to pack and organize them properly. Using a tool roll or pouch, storing them in a waterproof bag, packing them according to frequency of use, securely fastening them, and checking them regularly can ensure that your tools are always in good condition and ready to use.

In conclusion, carrying essential tools on your motorcycle is not only a practical decision but also a responsible one. It allows you to handle small problems on the go and ensures that you can get back on the road quickly and safely. By carrying the right tools and packing them properly, you can enjoy a safe and hassle-free ride.