5. Tools & Manual
Description
This article is from the Beginner Motorcycle Info FAQ, by rn@bell-labs.com (Ravi Narayan) with numerous contributions by others.
5. Tools & Manual
Start assembling a tool kit to keep in the house and a smaller one
to carry on the bike, don't worry, even with a brand new bike you
will soon need it. If you are not willing to do any repair work
you should either find a rich uncle or reconsider and buy a Volvo.
Bikes aren't like cars, you can't just slap some new oil in them
once a year and run them into the ground. They operate on an
intricate system of cables, chains, mirrors and trick doors that
all need fairly constant adjustments. A new bike will probably save
you a lot of early complex repairs but you will still have to
adjust clutch cables, brake cables, chains, etc. All of these
require more frequent and more precise adjustments than a car.
Unlike for cars, there is not a bike shop on every corner and parts
are much harder to get. Even if you have mucho bucks and are
willing to let a mechanic do everything it just isn't always
possible. Luckily bike repair is easier (I think) and more
enjoyable than doing a car.
Order a Clymer repair manual as soon as you get your bike, also
consider the factory service manuals if they are available. Clymer
should run you $15. If you want to go all out you can even keep
frequently used spare parts around, it's a pain not to ride for a
month when Kawasaki takes that long to deliver a stupid $10 part,
but that's going beyond beginner advice so back to the story.
The basics for your tool kit will include:
- A set of spare spark plugs
- A spark plug socket and socket wrench
- Impact driver and hammer for removing hard to turn screws on the
engine covers (oil filter cover, point cover, timing cover,)
- An adjustable wrench
- Spare cotter pins for the axles and pliers to remove them
- Spare chain master link and clip
- Tire pressure gauge
These are what I would call the very basics, I'm sure others would
argue with me so go ahead and accumulate whatever you wish to your
little hearts desire. Consider how badly it would ruin your day not
to ride because you are waiting for a part on order or how much/far
you are willing to push home if you break down without tools and
plan accordingly.
Remember, this document errs on the conservative side, hopefully
you will have a smooth cycling experience and will never have to
push home. Proper care and feeding of your motorcycle will make
this even less likely.
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