There are a couple of main types of tools that are common for a person working on his or hers own motorcycle. Most of the tools sitting in the garage can be classified as either Power Tools or Hand Tools. Through a combination of both, an individual can have everything they could need to perform many general maintenance items without having to take the bike to a dealer or mechanic. Depending on where your motorcycle originates from (ie, Japan, Europe) will tell you whether you should have Metric sized tools (8mm, 10mm) or American Standard sized tools (5/8” or 15/16”).
Hand Tools:
Hand tools are the very fabric of the mechanics tool box. Many kinds of items belong in this group, from the socket wrench to the basic screwdriver. These tools make up a foundation that will allow you to do a variety of things to your bike from swapping out a dead battery to changing the oil. Basic things you should have are: Socket Wrench Set, Open-ended Wrench Set, Screwdriver Set, and Pliers.
Power Tools:
Most tools that fall in this category either plug into a wall, or have a battery attached to them to supply energy to it. Having a powered drill or socket wrench can make taking those two hundred screws off holding on the battery door a lot easier, but in most cases you’ll want to put the finishing touches on tightening bolts and screws by hand (especially if you need to get it to a specific torque). Air tools generally are labeled as power tools, though the power being used isn’t electricity but compressed air. These tend to out last the electric counterparts, but also can cost more up front. With air tools, you’ll need to have a compressor hooked up to it however, so make sure you have room for it in the garage.
Specialized Tools:
The tools that you have to go out and buy for one specific part of your bike, or that only have one main function fall into this sometimes annoying category. Tools like a Valve Stem Remover, or Tire Spoons don’t really have multiple purposes, and for most do-it-yourself-ers won’t need to be added to the shopping list until the time actually comes.
Rolling up your sleeves and getting your hands dirty is something that most motorcyclists look forward to when it comes time to do some maintenance on your bike. Knowing what tools you have and need to get the job done before hand can save you a lot of stress, and trips, to the hardware store.
Read all of our Motorcycle Tools reviews below:
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