Essential Motorcycle Maintenance Tools

Every motorcycle owner worth their salt knows the importance of regular maintenance. Servicing and upkeep is a primary responsibility for all riders, or at least those that don’t want their motorcycle to break down in the middle of the highway. While having the basic skills to work on your motorcycle is important, skills are nothing without the right tools. 

That’s why St. Charles Harley-Davidson has provided some tips on building up your motorcycle maintenance toolkit and provided some of the essential items you should include. If you’d like additional advice, stop by your local Harley-Davidson® dealer to chat with our friendly staff or your fellow riders. We’re in St. Charles, Missouri, serving St. Peters.

Think Realistically

Firstly, you’ll want to consider what’s actually realistic for your skill level. All riders have different skill sets when it comes to the kinds of repairs and maintenance they can perform. You have a finite amount of space to work with, so if there’s a tool we list below that you don’t know how to use, then don’t waste space by packing it. You can always build your skill set and add the tool to your collection later.

Choosing the Right Tools

You’ll also want to choose tools that make the most sense for your ride. Again, you only have so much space, so you’ll want to be smart about what you pack. Choose items that don’t take up too much space and stick to only the essentials, especially if you’ll be riding in areas where getting your hands on tools won’t be too difficult. If you know where to look, you can find lots of great compact tools.

Fold-Up Allen Wrench

An Allen wrench of varying sizes can help remove or tighten fasteners in a pinch. If you get a fold-up Allen wrench, you can get the full range of sizes to fit just about any job.

A Flat-Head Screwdriver

For a screwdriver, you should go with one that is thin and narrow, preferably with a magnet on the end. This can make maneuvering around the tight corners of the bike easier, so maintenance doesn’t have to be so frustrating.

Pliers

Pliers can be easier to manipulate and more nimble than your fingers. They’ll be particularly useful when it’s cold or extremely hot out and you can’t rely on your hands to be warm or dry.

Multipurpose Pocket Knife

This one can fit securely in your pocket and it’s useful for much more than just motorcycle repairs. A pocket knife is a great all-around tool to have, no matter how skilled you are with your hands.

Flashlight

Even during the day time, some of those pockets can be difficult to see into. Include a flashlight or headlamp (to keep your hands free) with your tools.

Battery Cables

Including a spare battery cable might help solve some basic electrical problems. These are also handy because you can roll them up tightly and they won’t take up too much room.

Spare Fuses

You’ll want to check your owner’s manual to make sure you get the right size fuses, but these can help get your bike moving again if it sputters out. 

Duct Tape

Let’s face it, duct tape is an essential. Full stop. Enough said.

A Backup Plan

Tools are an essential part of regular upkeep, as well as roadside emergencies. But, as we mentioned earlier, there are many responsibilities as a motorcycle owner that might be beyond your ability. That’s when a professional technician might come in handy. If you need a backup plan, call St. Charles Harley-Davidson to chat with our experienced service team. You can also ask to see our Harley-Davidson® motorcycles for sale near St. Louis and St. Peters, Missouri.