Useful motorcycling tools

The idea behind this article is that it should not be static, but should keep evolving as time passes. Comments and emails are most welcome to aid me in this process.

Roughly, I'm trying to come up with the best possible things to have with you on the bike. There are a few things that will not be considered, since they come standard, such as the manufacturer's toolkit and a puncture repair kit. And this doesn't just cover tools - it could be anything that enhances the trip for you, and that you would kick yourself for leaving behind. Let's get started.

1. Swiss Army Knife

I always have one of these in my pocket; the type with the long blade, which is better for general stabbing and also cutting steak. I keep it in my pocket instead of the top-box because it reduces the time it takes to remove bee's stingers from my face or arms.

2. Bungee cords

On a long trip I will often have bungees strapping a tent and a sleeping bag to the back, but I usually throw in a few extra ones. You never know when you're going to have to strap some wood on the back there. And if you have stabbed someone with your Swiss Army knife, you're going to have to get rid of the body, which means doing a "Weekend at Bernie's" with the corpse on your pillion. Bungees come in very handy for this.

3. Foot-pump

For some reason, I don't like the electric pumps. I like the mechanical sturdiness of a foot-pump. Of course, not everyone has a power outlet on their bike either. Let's face it - on a rough trail you may just exhaust your little bombs inflating puntured tires (or ones that you've deflated on purpose), and you'll need some way of getting up and running. Especially if you're riding two-up with a body on the back.

4. Spare bulbs

When your lights go, not only are you less visible, but things become seriously dangerous when it gets dark. Do not let this happen.

5. Kickstand pads

This one is thanks to Pam Segal. You do sometimes get to places where it is difficult to park the bike, either on the kickstand or on the center stand. A kickstand pad makes things a lot easier. The poor man's option here is to carry a Coke can you've stomped down on.

6. Plastic

Plastic may have a bad reputation these days, what with being a major pollutant, but what would we do without it? Some bags will usually come in hande - either to store your own trash, or even to put on your feet when it rains hard and your boots are not waterproof. I always carry a bag with an old, wet T-shirt in it for helmet-cleaning purposes.

7. Leatherman

I consider this to be in a separate category of multitool than the Swiss Army knife. (The knife on the Leatherman is plenty sharp though - I have the scar to prove it.) The pliers are my favorite feature though.

8. GPS

This is a no-brainer. You can travel without one, and I often do, but it can make your life a lot easier when you're in unfamiliar territory. On the other hand, I like asking the locals for directions and watching them arguing about the best routes, restaurants, hotels, etc.


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