It is true that motorcycles are so reliable these days they hardly break down anymore. That is great news for an owner, but the bad news is, many riders could not get their bikes running again when their bikes do grind to a halt or if something falls off. Roadside repairs are pretty straightforward, but one needs the right tools.
The tools supplied with your bike (if at all) are usually either inadequate or low quality, thus you are still stuck. So, do yourself a favor and get a few high-quality items listed below.
1. Multitool
You could save yourself lots of space and possibly some money if you’ve a multitool to replace a myriad of tools. However, do invest in a good one - for example, the pliers are stronger, the knife is sharper, the screwdrivers fit better, etc.
2. Pliers
Pliers help you grip onto items that your fingers could not. Although you could choose between different types, we recommend the long-nosed variety, as they are able to fit into tight spaces.
3. Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are indispensable even if you do have a multitool, as the ones on the multitool are too short to reach further into the deep crevices of the bike. Have a straight-edge and Philips' head ready. Also, make sure the tips are magnetized as they help you hold on to or retrieve dropped metal parts such as screws.
4. Adjustable wrench
This is a tool we do not recommend for repeated usage since the jaws do not usually lock on completely, causing them to slide and round out the bolt or nut. On the other hand, it’s good if you’ve got no space for a set of spanners or sockets.
5. Hex keys
A set of hex keys take up little space but then again, you only require those that correspond to the fasteners on your bike. We advise that you buy those with ball-ends because it slots in easier and you can work at some acute angle.
6. Puncture repair kit
Almost no rider carries one of these when out riding and ends up calling for a retrieval service when the bike has a flat; although It is an easy roadside fix.
Consider getting a set that includes CO2 canisters to re-inflate your tire after you’ve mended the puncture.
Another word of advice: Please have your tire fixed with a permanent patch or replace it after you’ve performed a temporary repair.
X02 tire repair kit - Courtesy of firestormmotorcycles.com.au
7. Wire
You may choose an insulated wire or “chicken” wire. The former is good for electrical circuit repair, while the latter is useful for tying things together.
8. Zip ties
If you’ve no other tool on your bike, the zip tie is the one you should absolutely have with you. They’re useful not only for repairing stuff on your bike, but also almost anything you could think of. Slip a bunch under the seat or in the tool bag.
9. Duct Tape
MacGyver’s favorite fixer-upper. For great reasons. You could repair anything from a leaking radiator hose to a boot that’s split open. There are small rolls available, so you don’t have to bring along the MacGyver jumbo-sized roll.
10. Flashlight
While it’s true that virtually all mobile phones are equipped with the flashlight function, getting a dedicated flashlight is still important. It’s especially true when you have to work on the bike with both hands and there’s hardly any spot on the bike to place the phone.