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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Scout63 on January 16, 2023, 08:27:47 AM

Title: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Scout63 on January 16, 2023, 08:27:47 AM
I never used to carry tools on short rides. Now I keep an old BMW tool toll in one side of my backpack.  It’s pretty much all metric with some extras like master links, a clutch lever and zip ties. I should put together another for the Brit bikes. That would make more sense but I would need to pack tail lights etc.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: JJ on January 16, 2023, 08:36:02 AM
Yes.....in a leather pouch above the front fender...plus the factory tool kit under the seat...because you never know! :wink:


(https://i.ibb.co/nLt10yG/IMG-4831.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nLt10yG)



(https://i.ibb.co/LR18t50/IMG-3067.jpg) (https://ibb.co/LR18t50)
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: inditx on January 16, 2023, 08:44:42 AM
Standard tool kit and tire repair/plug kit.
Would carry more if doing more than around town riding.
inditx
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: egschade on January 16, 2023, 09:00:33 AM
Yes, and probably too many.

My kit includes tire irons/bead breaker, tubes, patches, compressor, assortment of sockets for wheel removal, multi-tool, zip ties, gorilla tape, allen wrenches, and a few other bits. It's all in one of my saddle bags which I leave off on short rides.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: SemperVee on January 16, 2023, 10:45:39 AM
  I carry the same pack up cross country as I do on everyday rides.  Tools do no good back in the garage when you need them.  I carry enough to take care of flats, take wheels off, 12V pp mini air compressor,  tire plugger, assortment of small odds and ends, fuses, relays,  emergency battery jumper box, tie-ties, etc.  The same for all bikes less the clutch kit now that I am hydraulic. + my emergency tow card.  Hand sanitizer, one use gloves, first aid package and small towel.
Luckily I've only needed it once.  Better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Dirk_S on January 16, 2023, 11:17:04 AM
I love seeing this topic pop up every year.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: twowheeladdict on January 16, 2023, 11:17:56 AM
It depends on what I am riding, and where I am riding. 

Van van has basic no o-ring chain.  Always needs adjustment when riding washboard forest service roads. 

The further from civilization, the more I think about it.  Otherwise, a multitool, zip ties, duct tape, tire repair.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: John A on January 16, 2023, 11:26:12 AM
I carry enough to be self sufficient, especially on long trips. I hate to be stopped by an easy fix for lack of simple tools. The hard part is trying to not have too much.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: JJ on January 16, 2023, 11:26:45 AM
In the old Harley days, I cannot tell how many times on an overnight Road Trip where "bailing wire, hose clamps, and tie wraps" saved the day! :wink: :shocked: :rolleyes: :thumb:

I once also fixed a pair of broken prescription sunglasses with a roll of "Mini-Duct-Tape" - another essential! :laugh: :grin:
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: lazlokovacs on January 16, 2023, 11:30:16 AM
if you've got tubless tires, you've just got to carry a repair kit surely? It's such an easy, if temporary fix!

I like how Dave Richardson put it, something like 'when the flies are starting to eat your face there is no finer fix'
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: fotoguzzi on January 16, 2023, 11:30:45 AM
On some long trips I pulled a trailer full. Never really needed them

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Guzzi/i-STK3P5D/0/706b3c09/S/2022021418224343-1269092223606077983-IMG_4711-S.jpg) (https://fotoguzzi.smugmug.com/Guzzi/i-STK3P5D/A)
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Tkelly on January 16, 2023, 01:40:25 PM
Almost always,one time I didn’t I was riding locally with 3 other guys and a young biker with no tools needed help for a simple problem and not one of us old farts had tools.I try to stop if Someone is broke down and sometimes I have had the necessary tool to help get them back on the road.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Zenermaniac on January 16, 2023, 01:46:01 PM
I carry some basic tools for the occasional loose bolt, duct tape, and a tire kit, although, in 50 years of riding I’ve only had 1 flat. Hope I didn’t jinx myself in stating that.  :cool:
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: SemperVee on January 16, 2023, 03:08:29 PM

  This might be an age related thing but I started out with Harley in the 1970's on a  kickstart and electric Shovelhead and we never left home without knowing who was in the area with tools and a truck or trailer just in case..  :^)   Heck maybe not.  I carry "Stuff" in my brand new truck still..   
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Frenchfrog on January 16, 2023, 03:30:14 PM
Always have the essential on the bike...you never know what might happen !
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Guzzistajohn on January 16, 2023, 03:34:14 PM
Some tools, but mostly tire plugs and Co2 cannisters.  :boozing:
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Canuck750 on January 16, 2023, 03:57:29 PM
I carry a tool kit in every bike except my modern BMW(just a tire plug and small air compressor).
In one of the side cases in my Eldorado I carry replacement cables, a generator belt, tire patch kit and air compressor, spare points and condenser, a pair of spark plugs, a couple extra nuts and bolts, zip ties, a JB Weld epoxy kit, fuses, plus wrenches, screwdrivers etc.
My KLR gets to more out of the way places and I carry the above plus spare levers, a section of chain and two master links, a pair of tubes, some fuel line and hose clamps plus a spare CDI and reg/rec and a tiny micro meter.
at a minimum every bike I have has extra spark plugs and fuses plus a small tool kit.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: rocker59 on January 16, 2023, 04:11:11 PM

Yes.  And a tire plug kit with mini air compressor.

I've needed the tire plug kit more often than the tools.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: bikeridertim on January 16, 2023, 06:41:07 PM
I carry a tool roll with several different basic tools. I've used it more for other riders that myself. Oh and a tire plug kit with mini air compressor on trips.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: nc43bsa on January 16, 2023, 08:05:43 PM
Many mentions of mini-compressors.

Just how small are these pumps?
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: tris on January 17, 2023, 12:44:10 AM
Yes, because the single Allen key provided by Guzzi on the V9 won't cut the mustard!
Just a few basic tools plus when touring tyre repair kit and compressor
If its a simple fix I'll do it but if not break down recovery is there as insurance
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: bobrebos1 on January 17, 2023, 05:00:45 AM
I don’t carry as many tools as I used to.  Now I carry simple bike tool set a tire plug kit and a small air compressor. (About 5”x7”).  But with my new bike I need to install a 12 volt outlet for the compressor and order my bags yet before I’m carrying anything! 
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: luthier on January 17, 2023, 05:15:36 AM
Last flat I had on a bike was about 1972. There's the original tool kit but it's useless and may as well not be there. If I'm going interstate I might take the full kit just so I won't be needing it. But hang on, I'm not packing my laptop and diagnostic tools so what the hell is the point?
I'll just pay for a tow if that ever happens. I just re-entered Guzzidom for the express purpose of reliability.[ Among a few other things.] I hope that Guzzi ain't gunna let me down. I'm counting on you baby.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: s1120 on January 17, 2023, 06:01:57 AM
When I got my cali stone it did not come with any tools, or even the box to place them in. Im the kind that used to always have a tool for anything in my old cars, but its one of those things I just havent gotten to yet, and I really should. I started a can that holds whatever tools I use for maintainace on the bike, and just got to find/make a box/roll to hold them, and find a place to put them on the bike. So the answer is no I don't but I know I really should, and one day ill pay for my procrastination.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: mechanicsavant on January 17, 2023, 07:44:26 AM
Yup , I don’t leave the driveway w/o my tool pouch .mini compressor (about the size of a pack of cigarettes +wiring & hose). Plug kit & some basic tools , zip ties & gorilla tape . Total weighs about 5 lbs. Tucks nicely into the front of a HB 30l side bag , about the size of a Fosters oil can !
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Luap McKeever on January 17, 2023, 07:58:44 AM
12V compressor, plug kit, crescent wrench, 10mm wrench and a couple screwdrivers.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: larrys on January 17, 2023, 08:20:05 AM
Forty plus years ago riding Brit bikes and HD's always had a set of tools aboard. When going on group rides there was always a truck or van with us for the inevitable breakdown(s).
Today, no tools. But I just do day rides, no traveling anymore.
Larry
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Ncdan on January 17, 2023, 08:24:21 AM
Leatherman tool, medium adjustable wrench, medium size Vice grip, a couple feet of electrical wire, electric tape, a few medium grade zip ties, tire plug kit.
Most importantly, an update AAA card.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Guzzistajohn on January 17, 2023, 08:25:34 AM
Many mentions of mini-compressors.

Just how small are these pumps?

Google Slime compressor, I have one but I went to the even more compact C02 cannister and aluminum fitting
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Jack Straw on January 17, 2023, 08:33:24 AM
I carry the basic hand tool items plus a DynaPlug kit with compressor.  A nifty jump start gizmo from Battery Tender has me covered for most problems.  My riding is just day tripping but out on some pretty lonely roads. There's little storage space on the V7III so I use a tank bag and a small side pouch.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: PeteS on January 17, 2023, 08:54:00 AM
BMW tool kit covers the 4 metric bikes. My first cross country trip on my ‘71 Norton, the clutch came off. Now I carry a homemade clutch tool. Probably not needed as it now has the locking washer in the nut which the ‘71s didn’t come with.

Pete
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Zenermaniac on January 17, 2023, 09:41:17 AM
Google Slime compressor, I have one but I went to the even more compact C02 cannister and aluminum fitting

I have the Slime compressor but it’s too big for my liking. How many CO2 canisters does it take to fill a tire?
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Roebling3 on January 17, 2023, 10:44:46 AM
I retired 2/2009. 72 years on the road and still counting. 8.37 million miles in North America, Canada, Switzerland, France, Belgium, Netherlands et. al. I never bothered about how many miles were ridden on MC's. The logged miles were betwixt big trucks and cars.
I have done 11 Bunn Burner Gold's, + 100 miles added to each. (add 100 to 1500 in 24hrs. and you can get very cool 'Grosjean numbers). I rode MC's whenever and wherever I could. I had a 'Just show up and take one' in France, Belgium & Switzerland.
Except for 3X I never needed any of the large number of tools I carried for work related reasons. I used to fly commercially for repairs, installs, sales and trade shows.
At some very late way point I realized there was seldom a need for 3 types of Freon, vacuum pump, welding equip. bearings, etc. I nearly emptied the trunk.
Clients in Europe always had what I needed - regardless. I've had one flat on a motorcycle - in my garage! Lost a clutch within a block of home. 
I've not carried any tools for more than 30 years. In most ways I'm the luckiest guy I know. 
 
You can plan - of course. Save yourself real grief! Don't ride motorcycles with 2 sided shaft drives. Don't ride on wire wheels - unless you have those hi-zoot rims, w/no tubes. Don't ride with plastic parts in your fuel line. i.e. pumps - filters.  Good fortune,  R3~
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: LowRyter on January 17, 2023, 11:51:39 AM
Yes.  And a tire plug kit with mini air compressor.

I've needed the tire plug kit more often than the tools.

I keep all that in my tank bag, move it from bike to bike.  But my Ducati, it has special sockets for each wheel as well as well as needing 1/2 ratchet drive for Torx & C-wrench to adjust the chain.  it's easy, so long as you have the peculiar tools. 
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: ScepticalScotty on January 17, 2023, 12:16:00 PM
All the time - the standard kit that came with the Breva 750 plus what I have added to it. Of course, now it doesn't fit under the seat and I have to fit the panniers, but thats no bother. Or if you are Scottish, nae bother ava!
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Dr. Enzo Toma on January 17, 2023, 01:34:24 PM
This is my V7 Stone e5 kit:

(https://i.ibb.co/Fw5X98Y/messages-0-3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Fw5X98Y)


(https://i.ibb.co/G7DZxvH/messages-0-4.jpg) (https://ibb.co/G7DZxvH)


I have a similar kit pieced together for each one of my motorcycles that see more use than just around town. I use the travel toolkit to do most of the work and maintenance on the bike, to make sure the tools are useful should they be needed. They are mostly things I purchased a la carte from Tekton on a few other tool makers. The DynaPlug micro inflator and plug kit gets moved between bikes so I don't need to own so many of them. This whole kit fits quite nicely in the bottom layer of one of my panniers for travel.

I replaced the brake and clutch lever with adjustable ones, so I also carry the OEM levers when touring so I have them as spares.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Perazzimx14 on January 17, 2023, 03:13:06 PM
In the motorcycle world the tool roll is a badge of honor. You're not a serious biker until you have a least a 35lb tool roll with enough different tools, tie wire, epoxy, tape and zip ties in it to rebuild at least 9 different motorcycles. It really doesn't matter if you know how to use any of these things as long as you have them, you'll be fine if there is a failure along the road.

While I do carry a few tools its nothing crazy. More important to carry is a tire repair kit and pump and most importantly know how to use it.

Follow up questions:

1. Out of those who carry tools how often do you used them when out riding your? Tire repair kits and tools to adjust a chain do not apply.
2. Out of all the tool you carry home many of them have never been used?









Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: AJ Huff on January 17, 2023, 03:45:01 PM
Nope.

I wouldn't know what to do with them if I had them with me, so what's the point. Phone and credit card.

-AJ
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Canuck750 on January 18, 2023, 07:53:10 PM

Follow up questions:

1. Out of those who carry tools how often do you used them when out riding your? Tire repair kits and tools to adjust a chain do not apply.
2. Out of all the tool you carry home many of them have never been used?

Things I carry that I have used:

Clutch cable (twice - 72 Eldorado and 2006 KLR 650)
Throttle cable(s) - once Eldorado
condenser - Twice Eldorado
Zip ties - many times, mostly holding broken plastic back on the KLR
JB Weld metal putty - once to repair cracked crankcase on a KLR
Electrical wire- a couple times to by patch up busted off tail light, handlebar switch etc.
booster cables, several times to boost a dead battery
Air compressor to bring tire pressure back up after leaving the sand trails - KLR
Brake lever - once KLR
Multimeter - a couple times to diagnose other dead bikes, two were Harleys.
Tire irons to remove a tire to patch a tube, several KLR
Tire patch kit, compressor several times.
Nuts and bolts, replacing missing fasteners after a couple thousand kilometres of rough gravel roads.
I wouldn’t be without a good Philips and flat head screwdriver and enough wrenches to remove a wheel, fuel tank and seat.

Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: MotoG5 on January 18, 2023, 08:37:58 PM
Always,
Old tank bag with tire plug kit, air pump, tool kit (my own selection based on past experience), shop rag and what ever I think I may need at the time. Rain suit if it looks possible to need it. I only do day rides now so I wont go into what I used to carry on my previous road bikes for long hauls. I consider this stuff a good idea for now as even a good day ride can get me a couple of hundred miles from home round trip.
 
 
(https://i.ibb.co/L9WSQhL/20200518-115305.jpg) (https://ibb.co/L9WSQhL)




 

 





Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: egschade on January 19, 2023, 11:46:30 AM
Many mentions of mini-compressors.

Just how small are these pumps?

I carry the Slime power sport pack which is roughly 6x6x2 and has room for plugs in the case. Used it one and it worked fine for a motorcycle tire. Pretty low volume so a car tire would take a long time.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Perazzimx14 on January 19, 2023, 12:59:26 PM
I carry the Slime power sport pack which is roughly 6x6x2 and has room for plugs in the case. Used it one and it worked fine for a motorcycle tire. Pretty low volume so a car tire would take a long time.

I carry and use DynaPlug pumps on my motorcycles. Fit in the palm of your hand and work a treat. Most of the 12v mini tire inflators if you remove the plastic shell are very similar as far as pump and motor.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: ScepticalScotty on January 19, 2023, 01:10:10 PM
Might get one of them tool roll things - the bags from 2004 are looking a bit ratty.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: ChrisG on January 19, 2023, 03:11:34 PM
This comes with a V7 Stone 850. What more could one possibly need?

(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-rhtrN6L/0/3c386d5d/L/i-rhtrN6L-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: bobrebos1 on January 19, 2023, 03:14:38 PM
I have added carrying a can of electric contact spray cleaner with my 2021 V7 due to the crappy ignition switch!  Geez it’s always something!  Lol
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Antietam Classic Cycle on January 19, 2023, 04:02:30 PM
I carry and use DynaPlug pumps on my motorcycles. Fit in the palm of your hand and work a treat. Most of the 12v mini tire inflators if you remove the plastic shell are very similar as far as pump and motor.

http://www.dynaplug.com/microproinflator.html
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: DougG on January 19, 2023, 04:18:49 PM
Hi Scout,                                                                                             1-19-23
Tool kit, puncture kit, water and first aid kit.  Luckily I've never had to use them but on two occasions I helped other riders. 

Be well, stay well,
DougG
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Perazzimx14 on January 19, 2023, 05:22:04 PM
This comes with a V7 Stone 850. What more could one possibly need?

(https://photos.smugmug.com/photos/i-rhtrN6L/0/3c386d5d/L/i-rhtrN6L-L.jpg)

Honestly probably not a lot other than a credit card and a cell phone. If a component breaks/fails on the road unless you have a replacement with you and the ability to replace all the tools in the world are useless.



Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: s1120 on January 20, 2023, 04:10:32 AM
Hi Scout,                                                                                             1-19-23
Tool kit, puncture kit, water and first aid kit.  Luckily I've never had to use them but on two occasions I helped other riders. 

Be well, stay well,
DougG

Really in my experience I would get far more use out of a first aid kit then the tool kit. Not for anything major, but I have got cuts, and scratches that just will not stop bleeding far more then I have needed any tools.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Perazzimx14 on January 20, 2023, 05:01:50 AM
http://www.dynaplug.com/microproinflator.html

Shame is 3 or 4 years go Cycle Gear had them for $19.99 now they are $69.99. Glad I bought as many as I did when I did :thumb:
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Bulldog9 on January 20, 2023, 06:42:10 AM
Always. I used to plus up the 'oem' tool kit with the extras, but several years ago bought this https://www.rrrtoolsolutions.com/adventure-tools.php super compact and so far useful. I also carry a stopngo plug kit with pump.

I have both in a small carry bag that also contains extra bulbs, zip ties, electrical tape, crimp connectors, a small multimeter, specific tools to change a tire and spark plug and portable battery jumper pack thingy. Also carry a first aid kit with compression dressings with chitosan. This goes in a saddlebag and I will throw in the trunk of the Porsche or Mustang. I run rideon sealer in all my tires which has been helpful in several situations where I picked up a nail or screw. Not helpful in situations like I had on my Novi Scotia ride several years ago when I ran over something on a gravel road chasing lighthouses that tore a chunk out of the rear tire and sliced the front down to the chords. 

The Griso is the only bike I have without a saddle bag, but I don't do more than day trip thugging around on it.

Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: pebra on January 20, 2023, 09:23:43 AM
Nope.

I wouldn't know what to do with them if I had them with me, so what's the point. Phone and credit card.

-AJ

Yeah, I'm mostly there  :grin:
Those Guzzis are so reliable I've hardly ever missed tools.

At times, on long trips, I carry just a few screwdrivers, hex keys, pliers, zip ties, tape - - - -  Come to use just once.
A clutch wire if I have one.

Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Steph on January 20, 2023, 09:54:41 AM
I carry a full set, under the seat, on the older bike and recently added a Knipex 150mm wrench pliers after seeing them in this video: https://youtu.be/T2D49jEVIrk
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: LowRyter on January 20, 2023, 10:05:13 AM
Shame is 3 or 4 years go Cycle Gear had them for $19.99 now they are $69.99. Glad I bought as many as I did when I did :thumb:

Don't even try to buy Plexis now... $30.  Even the Pink can is $14, double the last time I bought some.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: tommy2cyl on January 20, 2023, 10:52:03 AM
Bought new tubeless wheels for my 2020 V 85 so eliminated spare tubes & tools to change tubes.   Carry 2 sockets, ratchet and round metal tube (leverage bar) to be able to remove front and rear wheels.  A few other small sockets,  3 open wrenches, Phillips and flat screw drivers, air pump and tire plug kit.
Small roll of duct tape and a few zip ties.  Any repair requiring more than that it is pull out the credit card and make a phone call time.

When doing back country camping trips on the DR 350, tire irons and spare tubes are back on the list.
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: tommy2cyl on January 20, 2023, 10:56:30 AM
...and a multi allen head tool.    ....oh, and Leatherman in my saddleback.   :thumb: 
Title: Re: Do you carry tools?
Post by: Perazzimx14 on January 20, 2023, 11:09:34 AM
Don't even try to buy Plexis now... $30.  Even the Pink can is $14, double the last time I bought some.

Even when it was less expensive Plexus was too expensive.  I'm good with $4 a can Trueliving lemon furniture polish from Dollar General. Heck I don't even see the advantage of spending $5.75 a can for lemon Pledge.


(https://i.ibb.co/KmkCcSn/27318401-0.jpg) (https://ibb.co/KmkCcSn)
 :thumb: