Would love to see a part 2 focusing on your larger Adventure/Touring kit. Have been refining mine and thought the vice grips doubling as an emergency lever extension was an amazing hack.
I've never had to plug one of my own tires but I've plugged about a half dozen of other people's tires including in the middle of nowhere. I carry a 12 volt compressor, they take up about the same room as a bike pump or a CO2 inflator and 3 or 4 cylinders. I've never liked CO2 because of the trash they generate. When bicycling I've stopped several times to pick up CO2 canisters that roadies left on the side of the road so I could get them into recycling.
I'm not a CO2 fan either, in part because of the waste, but also because it's a very limited solution. Run out of cylinders and you're riding a flat tire. I much prefer a mountain bike pump. It's significantly lighter, packs smaller, is more reliable and more maintainable. Sometimes you need to repair your tools before repairing your bike. The bike pump is cheaper too.
Something I do I learned from fellow club members is secure a clutch cable to the existing one, following the route and sealing the ends with tape. Also an old wire clothes hanger in the handle bar. We do ride old Brit bikes, often abroad and long distances and at recent events rallies have had a WhatsApp group for rally goers to ask for help locally, engine blowups etc. Remarkable how some things can be solved by yourself or with pals with more knowledge, experience or just the bit you need. Great video by the way
Great tip using vice grips as extra levers! I never carry extra levers when I'm riding on the street, but always bring an extra pair when I hit the trails.
Iv started carrying self amalgamating tape after I had a hose get damaged off road. Just give it a stretch as you wrap it and you’re back in business in no time. Iv also cut down big spanner’s and given the handle end a thinner end section so I can put a smaller ring ended spanner over it to increase leverage.
I cut the handle off a 8" shifter and replaced it with squashed pipe to use as a cheater bar and also integrated a 3/8 square drive. The shifter has a hammer head too. ALL the socket sizes for my bike fit nicely inside one another and make a little stack that can be ziptied together.
Very good, I figured this out myself years ago, good tip on cutting down the tyre repair tools, hadn't thought of that, I carry a small compressor but the small bicycle pump is a good tip.
A tip for if you are carrying a bicycle pump, get one designed as high volume not high pressure. It may save your arms little bit when pumping a tire back up.
This is the 1st video I’ve seen that demonstrates that a vice grip type tool can temporarily fix a broken lever. This happened to me in the 80’s while trail riding and my vice grip pliers (needle nose type) got me home. I’ve since made sure my brake and clutch lever mounts have some give but the usefulness of that locking plier has never been forgotten. Leatherman Crunch is what I carry now if space is an issue. Thanks!
Good ideas in this video. Best advice given is practice using whatever you carry. Only change for me, is I carry a small LED camping headlamp so I can have hands free lighting. I also carry a spare headlight bulb (for us that ride older models). If your headlight goes out, after local stores are closed, you may be stuck over something that's easily resolved... if you have a spare!
Suggestions on where to put that EDC? The only place I have ready storage on my bike is under the seat (on top of the battery), which requires a 5mm hex key to even get to. I don't have any good places for a tail bag, I don't seem to have a good way to mount any tank bags *other* than to the gas cap, and I can't really put a bag on clip-ons.
I bought Cruz Tool kit #TR2 for my Tiger 900, To say it's well thought out is an understatement. I had tool I would need to remove fastener that I could access on the bike, at least before removing any panels, except one. The only thing it didn't come with was a T-50 (I think) torx wrench, and that is only for 2 bolts that hold the frame to engine. Before buying the kit, I determined exactly what tools were needed, and was astonished how complete the kit was. It even came with duct tape, baling wire, zip ties, Loctite, a tire gauge, and even a pair of vive grips! Seriously worth the money! Of course, I've added a few more things to the kit, but dang... Great video Ari!
I'm glad to see this video! One thing I recommend is to bring along a wheel nut remover. My Multistrada has a single-sided swing-arm, and the tool I have enables me to removed the front AND rear wheels, should a tire need replacement far away from any Ducati dealer. If you have a bike with rather niche tool requirements, definitely bring them along!
Absolutely! That's what the "make sure you have the tools for YOUR bike" bit was all about. Very few shops will have the proprietary nut needed to remove the wheel of a SSS.
I'm so glad someone could confirm that cutting the handles on the reamer/installer won't mess them up for use. This video is awesome and super helpful!
I take the plastic all the way off and use the aforementioned Vice Grips as the handles. Both tools and a pressure gauge fit in my Leatherman cases side sleeves.
I started with a CruzTool kit as well. Mine is a roll, not a pouch, but the principle is the same. I ride a metric, so my dedicated sizes are metric, but I've done clutch cable adjustments and other work on Harley bikes with the pliers and adjustable wrench. I've greatly augmented the content over the years to mostly ensure the tools are quality. My tool roll had space for the tire patch kit, so I saved the second bag. However, instead of CO2, I carry a CyclePump compressor from BestRest. I've tried many other pumps and they are either much larger or pure junk. Yes, the CyclePump is expensive, but I've had mine for going on 20 years now. I installed an upgraded pigtail that works for a Battery Tender, heated gear, and the compressor, so I have a solid connection 15amp harness to run it. The kit, rain gear, spare gloves, off-bike hat, and a couple microfiber towels for cleaning bugs off the bike all store tightly into a compartment on the bike. I pull it all out every so often to ensure it's in good shape and the tools get used at least once a month during the good weather. Mostly on other people's bikes. Typically don't use the rain gear as I will wear the heavier riding gear if rain is forecast, but it's nice to have for those summer downpours. One tip: Just replace the tube of vulcanizing compound once you open it. Yes, this wastes it, but after a leak and then the tube welding the cap on, I decided that having stuff fail on the side of the road is not worth the cost of another tube. You can buy them in bulk on Amazon. On long trips, I just pack a second tube. Not all tire patch kits come with this. This is a mistake. Not only does the goop help lubricate the plug going in, but it cures to really seal the leak. When you are starting a trip on freshly broken in rubber, the last thing you want is to let a tire issue ruin the trip. I had one tire that did over 10,000 miles on a plug. I don't recommend that, but it's nice to know you could. I can't stress enough that you MUST practice using the kit. 9pm coming home after a long weekend at the local rally isn't the time to discover the kit is a PIA to use.
i've been riding motorcycles for over 50 years. In all that time I've only had two flat tires. Both of them were decades before cell phones. One of them occurred on the San Mateo - Hayward Bridge in the SF Bay Area. I had to pull into an emergency turnout and use a call box to request a tow truck. The other occurred on I-80 in the Sacramento Valley when I was headed from the Bay Area to go camping in the Sierra Foothills after work on a Friday. I did have a tire pump so I would pump it up, ride a mile and repeat for about ten miles and then stay in a motel over night and then take the wheel/tire to a bike shop Saturday morning for a replacement. Nonetheless, I did buy a tubeless tire repair kit just a few years ago. I've never used it so I like your suggestion to try it out on worn out tires before replacement.
Leatherman multi-tool knife always on my belt Some Instasteel compound mix in two plastic tubes Tyre lever with rear-wheel nut ring spanner zip-tied to the sub-frame Tow rope tucked away in a open cranny in the skid plate Aluminium zip-ties to fix things that would be exposed to engine/exhaust heat
On longer rides I further carry a battery jump pack, a Sunex mini ratchet set (#9732), and a universal cable set. I've had the clutch cable snap before. The cable set is always under the seat with two different CO2 inflator kits. I like the idea of the locking pliers and will switch to it.
Motorized air pump small and cheap and a plug kit . For around town thats all i have ever needed . But i will be doing this getting a kit together for longer distances. Some good stuff there
I carry a Topeak Mountain Morph bicycle pump myself -- it's a great choice if you have saddlebags or a tank bag to stuff it in. It has a folding foot and handle to turn into a tiny foot pump, as well as an air chuck on a foot long flexible hose, making it much easier to use than most tiny bicycle pumps. About a minute of pumping got me to 16psi in a front 19 inch road tire when I tested it, so while it's not CO2 quick it is usable and wouldn't take more than a few minutes to get a tire to usable pressure. My only gripe is that it's about 15 inches long so I can't hide it anywhere inside the bike's bodywork or under the seat. I keep it and my tire patch kit in a tool roll in one of my saddlebags and that works fine.
I found an excellent alternative for a hand pump. There is an electric one called Berkut MT-1000 I carry now. It is similar in shape but even smaller than the hand pump shown in this video. It is slow though, requires 10+ minutes to fill 30psi in my rear 17 tyre from zero. But it still is faster than hand pumping and is obviously easier on your arms. Ideal if you want to go electric, but want the smallest, lightest option, as well as if like me, you have a 3A limit on your power socket. Battery clams were included, but getting to it for me requires some fairing stripping (FJR1300A), so that is another plus in my book.
Great kit, so glad you included the tapes! I threw a couple crimp butt connectors in mine as well. No need to carry special pliers, the vise grip will work in a pinch 😏
I really wish manafacturers would sort this and allow storage on bikes. If a car (in the UK) has to have a spare tyre or a puncture kit, a bike should be no different. I've broken kits down and stash them behind fairing etc. For longer rides or remote I've got a universal cable kit too. Should clutch or throttle cable go.
Here is another idea: if you want some more tape, take an old credit card and wrap duck tape tightly around the card. You can get a couple of wraps without losing too much space .
I carry some basic tools, a mini first aid kit, tyre repair strings along with glue & the tools & all this fits in the small case that came with & also carries my lithium battery jump pack plus leads from Suaoki.
yes indeed, my custom tool kit is a must have for everyday riding -and on more than a few occasions it came in handy, but I've always been burdened with where to keep it (on a sport bike.) Over the years, I've come to terms with attaching a couple of Bell brand bicycle pouches on to the passenger grab rails (kinda like a set of mini saddle bags) but it isn't exactly the look I want. Oh well...
I love Ari! I remember reading some of his earliest articles on Motorcyclist Magazine years ago when he had dreads. I miss that magazine! Hope you're well and happy for your success!
I did the same Cruz Tools kit then modified it for my particular motorcycle. On the duct tape I cut out a piece of cardboard the width of my duct tape and about four inch long and wrapped several layers around that You can get more duct tape that way. I also wrap the tools in a rag and put a couple of those blue shop towel in my kit. I also like Cruz Tools folding tool with the screwdrivers and Allen keys.
One of the most important parts is HAVING a secure place to carry your extra kit. I'm fortunate that my '18 KLR came with a nice factory tool kit. (in the back rack) but the FIRST thing I bought was their awesome $68 tank bag. and it's expandable (like the factory tail pack...which I only put on when I need) carry my slime for tube tires, 16 oz Aquafina, The CO2 kit like Ari has, a nice Leatherman, rags, and all the goodies. PLUS it's got a nice zippered clear top that holds my phone perfectly (no vibration from handlebar mounts) Come to think of it, most all the bikes I have owned, I've put on bags or fashioned a tool pouch to hold all my stuff...EVEN my old '72 triumph!! (rarely used...really) 😁
Have similar setup with few add-ons (FJR have enough space to accommodate): - small electric pump. Saved me on a day I had double sidewall puncture. Was a longest 28 mile ride but I made it safely home without tow truck. - gas bottle, compact but works like a charm even if you keep it empty. - spare bottle of water. is a pleasant and cheap way to cheer up unlucky rider while they wait for tow truck in a Florida sun. - on the long trips my trusty Antigravity jumpstarted/power bank. Because waiting for motorist to stop to help is a small chance, but expecting them to have jumper cable even smaller.
@@willjohnson5861 I'm fat, and pushing 650 pound bike plus gear is way too much of exercise comparing to nice, compact and light jumper. Not to mention, I have plenty of space between saddlebags and 65 liter trunk 😂
@@willjohnson5861 You might want to take a look at Givi tank bags, I have 16 liter expandable one... Yes I like to have more storage than average Prius 🤣🤣 I use it for small stuff, but if needed on a light trip I can getaway with using just it. Very good investment.
I always carry 2 knives, an emergency knife that is a good sharp quality knife, relatively quality, I been carrying a off grid badger around 80$ always keep it razor sharp, then I have a utility type Gerber knife I use for cutting things regularly, I can switch blades easily don't have to sharpen, but my edc go to off grid is my emergency knife/ self defense knife that I don't use for much, maybe the occasional steak
Been riding for over 20 years now and there is always something to improve, maintenance especially. Will definitely use your idea to practice plugging tires next tire swap.
I love your Less Is More minimalist approach. Great recommendations! Tubeless FTW! I carry a mountain bike tire pump. It's more effort than a compressor but a lot less bulk and weight. To keep it simple, I only have one tool kit. I did my best to keep it small and light but it's 7 pounds because it has trail side ADV repair tools and supplies.
Good video and topic! I recently bought a Triumph T120. Premium priced bike, does only come with 1 allen key! I would definitely recommend Triumph to at least offer those tools you need to change the tubes tire in case of a puncture...
Great advice as always, thank you! I'll just state that from my personal experience, that small vise grip is the real deal for acting as an impromptu clutch/brake lever....absolutely saved a seven day ride around South Central Alaska for a friend and I! Happy New Year!!
Great video! I've come to the same conclusions over the years, except I gave up on CO2 and switched to a 12vdc inflater. A small siphon hose is also handy. Years ago, I had HD friends who hauled around about 20+ lbs of tools. :)
I have the same stuff but i also carry a rugged little air compressor along with Powerlet Motorsport Jumper Cables and later i started to carry a battery jump pack. It's saved my bacon as well as others i've run across out in the middle of nowhere...
Alright now I need to see a video of the road-trip and adventure pack! I have a lot of summer plans- I hope many of them are on two wheels and not a flat-bed.
I have a DR650. I think I can take the whole thing apart with three sockets and a crescent wrench. Which is good, because I've had to take it apart with three sockets and a crescent wrench before.
Great tips! I just started assembling a robust emergency tool kit for my new adventure bike but never really carried one on my sportbike since I only rode it around town and it didn't have much space to carry stuff (as is the norm for sportbikes) but I'll probably put a compact EDC kit like this now based on this video!
Cool thing about my 2014 Valkyrie is the toolbox is huge. I have a battery phone charger and jump-starter with jumpers and built in light, patch kit, 3 x CO2, hex tools and even diebetic tablets in case i get into an emergency low blood sugar. Smaller sport bikes probably have far less space i imagine.
The tool kit that came with my Honda Blackbird even has compact wrenches to remove the wheels. I still carry a tire kit, zip ties, and a couple other things for longer rides to the middle of nowhere.
Once a week tour and tightening negates most issues. And luke pilot do preflight check, chain lube and slack, both tires for nails etc. And air pressure. I have about 10 basics i do before any ride, while bike warms i run check. Then o am good to go.
I wish I would have kept a list of all the stuff I've lost/dropped on the street while riding. The art of Strapping things down tightly on your bike when there's nowhere to strap things down too is super under rated.
I'd probably stick with AAA if I was broke down on the street. But it wouldn't be a bad idea to have a comfort kit ready for the wait. Especially in the cold weather 🤔
Never seen one but I would think it is most about lenght if you will fit good, but getting something with a stiff suspension that is adjustable should help, most bikes set up for a pillion will have preload adjustment to fit one bigger person instead ;)
I built a set of moto sized booster cables from the "direct to battery" wiring that comes with a 300 watt inverter. It was the same gauge as the main power wires on my bike. I just crimped 20 amp red/blacl clips on them. Probably $7 invested. Same size as a booster pack (although I'd rather have the little booster pack)
I don't let people jump off my battery. What I do instead is hook a lead up between my battery maintainer pig tail which is wired directly to my battery to plug on the other end I can swap between a hand full of standard plugs used for the same purpose. (Everyone I know usues a battery maintainer in the winter.) I let the bike idle for about 20-30 mins to recharge their battery before I disconnect and they start their bike up. It prevents damage to my bike from a surge or if there is something wrong with their bike like a blow regulator that tries to dump very high voltage across the connection between bikes. Other assorted possible damage sources. If I'm in the middle of nowhere I don't take avoidable risks.
I second the suggestions of a larger touring kit. I'm on the east coast and want to tour Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Nevada. I want to pack efficiently but not be stranded in the desert and die.
This is a really great video, thank you for making it! The universe: *crickets* Me: Along with zipties I carry precut slotted velcro ties with a screw hole already punched in them. Secure a bundle of anything to anything, then do it again; a few last forever and can be repurposed quickly. Along with duct tape I carry a good brand of gaffer's tape, in a neon/fluorescent color so the repairs can be easily seen and avoided while riding. Instead of vinyl electrical tape I carry kapton/polyamide and some bits of shrink tubing. I never recommend the classic "electrician's" tape for anything. We have many better alternatives now. Super glue/cyanoacrylate along with activator and release agents to speed up curing/removal is VERY useful in splinting plastic bits or broken electronics together. A couple disposable torch lighters for finishing various repairs (speed up curing of agents, shrink tubing seals against water and dirt, etc) tiny bottle of 95%+ pure ethanol (food grade leaves no contaminantsbehind and also isopropyl is a petroleum distillate and may harm parts of your bike) and low lint/lint free tekwipes to get things cleaned that benefit from cleaning.
My 08 Yamaha R1 actually came with a very good OEM toolkit to do everything you mentioned in video... I just don't have the extras that you added. Because I literally can't fit a pair of sunglasses under the seat.
Hey Ari. Thanks for all the entertaining and informative vids. I've heard you talk a lot about patching a tubeless tire, as a new rider looking at a T7 with tube tires, it would be great if you could do a video about tube replacement and the tools needed for the process. Cheers!
Enter to win a free Kershaw pocket knife here! a.pgtb.me/W6wfPG
I wanna see Ari's full velomacchi tool setup!
This video went live on 1/1/22 but the giveaway link says "giveaway entries must be made before 12/31/21"
@@t_ag good catch - we updated the rules!
Love from the MC garage
Would love to see a part 2 focusing on your larger Adventure/Touring kit. Have been refining mine and thought the vice grips doubling as an emergency lever extension was an amazing hack.
Looking forward to this.
Totally agree :) Love the hack of the electrical tape on the wrench.
Yup, we'll cover the bigger/more comprehensive adventure kit in a future vid.
waiting for this, BMW GSA please.
Totally agree, hoping we get it sometime soon. Got a big trip at the end of may, and def would love to see ari’s insight.
Your repair kit not only helps you, it helps other motorists in cars, ATV's and motorcycles. My kit has rescued two people so far.
What a great idea to practice using your tire plug kit on your old tires when you're ready to replace them!
I've never had to plug one of my own tires but I've plugged about a half dozen of other people's tires including in the middle of nowhere. I carry a 12 volt compressor, they take up about the same room as a bike pump or a CO2 inflator and 3 or 4 cylinders. I've never liked CO2 because of the trash they generate. When bicycling I've stopped several times to pick up CO2 canisters that roadies left on the side of the road so I could get them into recycling.
That's a totally fair complaint against the CO2 cartridges.
I'm not a CO2 fan either, in part because of the waste, but also because it's a very limited solution. Run out of cylinders and you're riding a flat tire.
I much prefer a mountain bike pump. It's significantly lighter, packs smaller, is more reliable and more maintainable. Sometimes you need to repair your tools before repairing your bike. The bike pump is cheaper too.
CyclePump from BestRest. Hands down the best. Expensive, but worth it.
Carry tools has helped both me and my friends out in the past. Absolutely something all bikes should carry. Good work as ever guys
Vise grips, brilliant!
They can also be an ersatz shifter if you have the small ones...
Something I do I learned from fellow club members is secure a clutch cable to the existing one, following the route and sealing the ends with tape. Also an old wire clothes hanger in the handle bar.
We do ride old Brit bikes, often abroad and long distances and at recent events rallies have had a WhatsApp group for rally goers to ask for help locally, engine blowups etc.
Remarkable how some things can be solved by yourself or with pals with more knowledge, experience or just the bit you need. Great video by the way
Great tip using vice grips as extra levers! I never carry extra levers when I'm riding on the street, but always bring an extra pair when I hit the trails.
I would add one very important tool - A pencil style air gage so you can check the tire pressure after the repair
Iv started carrying self amalgamating tape after I had a hose get damaged off road. Just give it a stretch as you wrap it and you’re back in business in no time. Iv also cut down big spanner’s and given the handle end a thinner end section so I can put a smaller ring ended spanner over it to increase leverage.
I cut the handle off a 8" shifter and replaced it with squashed pipe to use as a cheater bar and also integrated a 3/8 square drive. The shifter has a hammer head too. ALL the socket sizes for my bike fit nicely inside one another and make a little stack that can be ziptied together.
Very good, I figured this out myself years ago, good tip on cutting down the tyre repair tools, hadn't thought of that, I carry a small compressor but the small bicycle pump is a good tip.
A tip for if you are carrying a bicycle pump, get one designed as high volume not high pressure. It may save your arms little bit when pumping a tire back up.
On top of what you posted I've found my two best additions to be a Cruz Axle combo wrench and a Swiss Army Knife.
This is the 1st video I’ve seen that demonstrates that a vice grip type tool can temporarily fix a broken lever. This happened to me in the 80’s while trail riding and my vice grip pliers (needle nose type) got me home. I’ve since made sure my brake and clutch lever mounts have some give but the usefulness of that locking plier has never been forgotten.
Leatherman Crunch is what I carry now if space is an issue. Thanks!
Good ideas in this video. Best advice given is practice using whatever you carry. Only change for me, is I carry a small LED camping headlamp so I can have hands free lighting. I also carry a spare headlight bulb (for us that ride older models). If your headlight goes out, after local stores are closed, you may be stuck over something that's easily resolved... if you have a spare!
Oh and I spy some nice OHLINS jewelry...
Thanks young Christoph Waltz, practicing plugging on old tires is a great idea!
Suggestions on where to put that EDC? The only place I have ready storage on my bike is under the seat (on top of the battery), which requires a 5mm hex key to even get to. I don't have any good places for a tail bag, I don't seem to have a good way to mount any tank bags *other* than to the gas cap, and I can't really put a bag on clip-ons.
I bought Cruz Tool kit #TR2 for my Tiger 900, To say it's well thought out is an understatement. I had tool I would need to remove fastener that I could access on the bike, at least before removing any panels, except one. The only thing it didn't come with was a T-50 (I think) torx wrench, and that is only for 2 bolts that hold the frame to engine. Before buying the kit, I determined exactly what tools were needed, and was astonished how complete the kit was. It even came with duct tape, baling wire, zip ties, Loctite, a tire gauge, and even a pair of vive grips! Seriously worth the money! Of course, I've added a few more things to the kit, but dang... Great video Ari!
I'm glad to see this video! One thing I recommend is to bring along a wheel nut remover. My Multistrada has a single-sided swing-arm, and the tool I have enables me to removed the front AND rear wheels, should a tire need replacement far away from any Ducati dealer. If you have a bike with rather niche tool requirements, definitely bring them along!
Absolutely! That's what the "make sure you have the tools for YOUR bike" bit was all about. Very few shops will have the proprietary nut needed to remove the wheel of a SSS.
I'm so glad someone could confirm that cutting the handles on the reamer/installer won't mess them up for use. This video is awesome and super helpful!
I take the plastic all the way off and use the aforementioned Vice Grips as the handles. Both tools and a pressure gauge fit in my Leatherman cases side sleeves.
I started with a CruzTool kit as well. Mine is a roll, not a pouch, but the principle is the same. I ride a metric, so my dedicated sizes are metric, but I've done clutch cable adjustments and other work on Harley bikes with the pliers and adjustable wrench. I've greatly augmented the content over the years to mostly ensure the tools are quality. My tool roll had space for the tire patch kit, so I saved the second bag. However, instead of CO2, I carry a CyclePump compressor from BestRest. I've tried many other pumps and they are either much larger or pure junk. Yes, the CyclePump is expensive, but I've had mine for going on 20 years now. I installed an upgraded pigtail that works for a Battery Tender, heated gear, and the compressor, so I have a solid connection 15amp harness to run it.
The kit, rain gear, spare gloves, off-bike hat, and a couple microfiber towels for cleaning bugs off the bike all store tightly into a compartment on the bike. I pull it all out every so often to ensure it's in good shape and the tools get used at least once a month during the good weather. Mostly on other people's bikes. Typically don't use the rain gear as I will wear the heavier riding gear if rain is forecast, but it's nice to have for those summer downpours.
One tip: Just replace the tube of vulcanizing compound once you open it. Yes, this wastes it, but after a leak and then the tube welding the cap on, I decided that having stuff fail on the side of the road is not worth the cost of another tube. You can buy them in bulk on Amazon. On long trips, I just pack a second tube. Not all tire patch kits come with this. This is a mistake. Not only does the goop help lubricate the plug going in, but it cures to really seal the leak. When you are starting a trip on freshly broken in rubber, the last thing you want is to let a tire issue ruin the trip. I had one tire that did over 10,000 miles on a plug. I don't recommend that, but it's nice to know you could.
I can't stress enough that you MUST practice using the kit. 9pm coming home after a long weekend at the local rally isn't the time to discover the kit is a PIA to use.
i've been riding motorcycles for over 50 years. In all that time I've only had two flat tires. Both of them were decades before cell phones. One of them occurred on the San Mateo - Hayward Bridge in the SF Bay Area. I had to pull into an emergency turnout and use a call box to request a tow truck. The other occurred on I-80 in the Sacramento Valley when I was headed from the Bay Area to go camping in the Sierra Foothills after work on a Friday. I did have a tire pump so I would pump it up, ride a mile and repeat for about ten miles and then stay in a motel over night and then take the wheel/tire to a bike shop Saturday morning for a replacement. Nonetheless, I did buy a tubeless tire repair kit just a few years ago. I've never used it so I like your suggestion to try it out on worn out tires before replacement.
Leatherman multi-tool knife always on my belt
Some Instasteel compound mix in two plastic tubes
Tyre lever with rear-wheel nut ring spanner zip-tied to the sub-frame
Tow rope tucked away in a open cranny in the skid plate
Aluminium zip-ties to fix things that would be exposed to engine/exhaust heat
On longer rides I further carry a battery jump pack, a Sunex mini ratchet set (#9732), and a universal cable set. I've had the clutch cable snap before. The cable set is always under the seat with two different CO2 inflator kits. I like the idea of the locking pliers and will switch to it.
Cigarette lighter. Wrap with electrical solder, and electrical tape.
Can be used for (roughly) stripping wires and soldering.
Motorized air pump small and cheap and a plug kit . For around town thats all i have ever needed . But i will be doing this getting a kit together for longer distances. Some good stuff there
I carry a Topeak Mountain Morph bicycle pump myself -- it's a great choice if you have saddlebags or a tank bag to stuff it in. It has a folding foot and handle to turn into a tiny foot pump, as well as an air chuck on a foot long flexible hose, making it much easier to use than most tiny bicycle pumps.
About a minute of pumping got me to 16psi in a front 19 inch road tire when I tested it, so while it's not CO2 quick it is usable and wouldn't take more than a few minutes to get a tire to usable pressure.
My only gripe is that it's about 15 inches long so I can't hide it anywhere inside the bike's bodywork or under the seat. I keep it and my tire patch kit in a tool roll in one of my saddlebags and that works fine.
Excellent way of starting the year, with practical and useful info.
That's what TSM is all about!
I use a pencil bag made of cloth and zippers. 2 of these make for a good tool box.
I found an excellent alternative for a hand pump. There is an electric one called Berkut MT-1000 I carry now. It is similar in shape but even smaller than the hand pump shown in this video. It is slow though, requires 10+ minutes to fill 30psi in my rear 17 tyre from zero. But it still is faster than hand pumping and is obviously easier on your arms. Ideal if you want to go electric, but want the smallest, lightest option, as well as if like me, you have a 3A limit on your power socket. Battery clams were included, but getting to it for me requires some fairing stripping (FJR1300A), so that is another plus in my book.
Great kit, so glad you included the tapes! I threw a couple crimp butt connectors in mine as well. No need to carry special pliers, the vise grip will work in a pinch 😏
I really wish manafacturers would sort this and allow storage on bikes.
If a car (in the UK) has to have a spare tyre or a puncture kit, a bike should be no different.
I've broken kits down and stash them behind fairing etc.
For longer rides or remote I've got a universal cable kit too. Should clutch or throttle cable go.
Totally agree with you
At least they offer something in UK, in the US they hardly see spare tire given with a car.
Been looking at new cars...they don't have spare tires!
Check out the fumpa usb rechargeable inflator. I carry one on my dual sport for airing back up when the ride heads back to long pavement miles.
Here is another idea: if you want some more tape, take an old credit card and wrap duck tape tightly around the card. You can get a couple of wraps without losing too much space .
I carry some basic tools, a mini first aid kit, tyre repair strings along with glue & the tools & all this fits in the small case that came with & also carries my lithium battery jump pack plus leads from Suaoki.
yes indeed, my custom tool kit is a must have for everyday riding -and on more than a few occasions it came in handy, but I've always been burdened with where to keep it (on a sport bike.)
Over the years, I've come to terms with attaching a couple of Bell brand bicycle pouches on to the passenger grab rails (kinda like a set of mini saddle bags) but it isn't exactly the look I want. Oh well...
I love Ari! I remember reading some of his earliest articles on Motorcyclist Magazine years ago when he had dreads. I miss that magazine! Hope you're well and happy for your success!
I did the same Cruz Tools kit then modified it for my particular motorcycle.
On the duct tape I cut out a piece of cardboard the width of my duct tape and about four inch long and wrapped several layers around that You can get more duct tape that way.
I also wrap the tools in a rag and put a couple of those blue shop towel in my kit.
I also like Cruz Tools folding tool with the screwdrivers and Allen keys.
Very useful idea to have two kits: one for EDC, and one for long trips. Thanks.
One of the most important parts is HAVING a secure place to carry your extra kit. I'm fortunate that my '18 KLR came with a nice factory tool kit. (in the back rack) but the FIRST thing I bought was their awesome $68 tank bag. and it's expandable (like the factory tail pack...which I only put on when I need)
carry my slime for tube tires, 16 oz Aquafina, The CO2 kit like Ari has, a nice Leatherman, rags, and all the goodies. PLUS it's got a nice zippered clear top that holds my phone perfectly (no vibration from handlebar mounts)
Come to think of it, most all the bikes I have owned, I've put on bags or fashioned a tool pouch to hold all my stuff...EVEN my old '72 triumph!! (rarely used...really) 😁
Have similar setup with few add-ons (FJR have enough space to accommodate):
- small electric pump. Saved me on a day I had double sidewall puncture. Was a longest 28 mile ride but I made it safely home without tow truck.
- gas bottle, compact but works like a charm even if you keep it empty.
- spare bottle of water. is a pleasant and cheap way to cheer up unlucky rider while they wait for tow truck in a Florida sun.
- on the long trips my trusty Antigravity jumpstarted/power bank. Because waiting for motorist to stop to help is a small chance, but expecting them to have jumper cable even smaller.
Why not just bump start the bike? Then you could save room and add more tools or other things.
@@willjohnson5861 I'm fat, and pushing 650 pound bike plus gear is way too much of exercise comparing to nice, compact and light jumper.
Not to mention, I have plenty of space between saddlebags and 65 liter trunk 😂
That’s true! I always forget my bike has no good storage, if I had a bike with better storage a little jump pack sounds like a good idea.
@@willjohnson5861 You might want to take a look at Givi tank bags, I have 16 liter expandable one... Yes I like to have more storage than average Prius 🤣🤣
I use it for small stuff, but if needed on a light trip I can getaway with using just it. Very good investment.
I always carry 2 knives, an emergency knife that is a good sharp quality knife, relatively quality, I been carrying a off grid badger around 80$ always keep it razor sharp, then I have a utility type Gerber knife I use for cutting things regularly, I can switch blades easily don't have to sharpen, but my edc go to off grid is my emergency knife/ self defense knife that I don't use for much, maybe the occasional steak
Good tip on practising plug repairs on an old tyre, I’m gonna do that before getting a new tyre fitted.
Been riding for over 20 years now and there is always something to improve, maintenance especially. Will definitely use your idea to practice plugging tires next tire swap.
I love your Less Is More minimalist approach. Great recommendations!
Tubeless FTW!
I carry a mountain bike tire pump. It's more effort than a compressor but a lot less bulk and weight.
To keep it simple, I only have one tool kit. I did my best to keep it small and light but it's 7 pounds because it has trail side ADV repair tools and supplies.
Loved the idea of electrical tap and the mole grips, thanks.
Good video and topic! I recently bought a Triumph T120. Premium priced bike, does only come with 1 allen key! I would definitely recommend Triumph to at least offer those tools you need to change the tubes tire in case of a puncture...
Great advice as always, thank you! I'll just state that from my personal experience, that small vise grip is the real deal for acting as an impromptu clutch/brake lever....absolutely saved a seven day ride around South Central Alaska for a friend and I! Happy New Year!!
Great video! I've come to the same conclusions over the years, except I gave up on CO2 and switched to a 12vdc inflater. A small siphon hose is also handy. Years ago, I had HD friends who hauled around about 20+ lbs of tools. :)
Also watch out when adding aftermarket accessories, make sure that you add the tools to your toolkit to fix them
I have the same stuff but i also carry a rugged little air compressor along with Powerlet Motorsport Jumper Cables and later i started to carry a battery jump pack. It's saved my bacon as well as others i've run across out in the middle of nowhere...
Alright now I need to see a video of the road-trip and adventure pack! I have a lot of summer plans- I hope many of them are on two wheels and not a flat-bed.
This video reminds me that i need to refresh my bike's tool kit. Thanks Ari.
Revzilla should sell one of those ari kit
I have a DR650. I think I can take the whole thing apart with three sockets and a crescent wrench. Which is good, because I've had to take it apart with three sockets and a crescent wrench before.
Saved under 'Educational'. Thanks, Ari and Revzilla.
👍ditto here with the addition of tire spoons , tube patch, and a small air pump….Cruz Tools makes great kits
Great idea to practice with old tiles
By far the best kind of video on the channel. Thank you. Happy New Year!
Great tips! I just started assembling a robust emergency tool kit for my new adventure bike but never really carried one on my sportbike since I only rode it around town and it didn't have much space to carry stuff (as is the norm for sportbikes) but I'll probably put a compact EDC kit like this now based on this video!
Superb ,great Job Guys thank you , I've adjusted my kit now it's F..... Perfect..
Ride safe fellow Bikers 👍🏼
I'd add some silicone tape the self adhering type to fix hose leaks if your bike is water cooled!
Cool thing about my 2014 Valkyrie is the toolbox is huge. I have a battery phone charger and jump-starter with jumpers and built in light, patch kit, 3 x CO2, hex tools and even diebetic tablets in case i get into an emergency low blood sugar. Smaller sport bikes probably have far less space i imagine.
This is exactly the topic I’ve wanted a video on, thanks Ari
The tool kit that came with my Honda Blackbird even has compact wrenches to remove the wheels. I still carry a tire kit, zip ties, and a couple other things for longer rides to the middle of nowhere.
Ari - an idea for a future Shop Manual episode...Quick Shifters - how they do what they do, up and down functionality, and types...thx
Perfect and to the point. Thank you for the reminder!
Ari and Zac make the best content. They need a raise and a bigger budget for content
Happy New Year Ari and Crew! I love the shop manual series!
Great video. Great to see Ari in action!!! 👍
Once a week tour and tightening negates most issues. And luke pilot do preflight check, chain lube and slack, both tires for nails etc. And air pressure. I have about 10 basics i do before any ride, while bike warms i run check. Then o am good to go.
Hi ! I´m from Brazil. I just love motorcicle. I´ve been learn
Happy New Year Ari
I wish I would have kept a list of all the stuff I've lost/dropped on the street while riding. The art of Strapping things down tightly on your bike when there's nowhere to strap things down too is super under rated.
Ari - I have jokingly asked at least five times on TSM videos how you get such muscular forearms - now I finally know. From all the tire plugging!
I'd probably stick with AAA if I was broke down on the street. But it wouldn't be a bad idea to have a comfort kit ready for the wait. Especially in the cold weather 🤔
Plus a tube of epoxy putty like what JB Weld, Loctite or Gorilla Glue markets…
I would love to see some more road trips
Anyone else??🤔
Good stuff, never leave home w/out EDC
Realy nice episode thanks! Hoping to see the roadtrip kit soon
I love this, planning longer trips this year, super stuff.
Ditch that hand or in your case mouth held flashlight for a head light. Just as compact and leaves both hands and mouth free. 😄
Hey guys do you have videos about beginners sport bikes for fat/big guys
Never seen one but I would think it is most about lenght if you will fit good, but getting something with a stiff suspension that is adjustable should help, most bikes set up for a pillion will have preload adjustment to fit one bigger person instead ;)
Practice plugging an old tire is a great tip but the 36mm axle nut on two of my bikes is an issue on what to carry.
I built a set of moto sized booster cables from the "direct to battery" wiring that comes with a 300 watt inverter. It was the same gauge as the main power wires on my bike. I just crimped 20 amp red/blacl clips on them. Probably $7 invested. Same size as a booster pack (although I'd rather have the little booster pack)
I don't let people jump off my battery. What I do instead is hook a lead up between my battery maintainer pig tail which is wired directly to my battery to plug on the other end I can swap between a hand full of standard plugs used for the same purpose. (Everyone I know usues a battery maintainer in the winter.) I let the bike idle for about 20-30 mins to recharge their battery before I disconnect and they start their bike up. It prevents damage to my bike from a surge or if there is something wrong with their bike like a blow regulator that tries to dump very high voltage across the connection between bikes. Other assorted possible damage sources. If I'm in the middle of nowhere I don't take avoidable risks.
I second the suggestions of a larger touring kit. I'm on the east coast and want to tour Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Nevada. I want to pack efficiently but not be stranded in the desert and die.
My 2019 Africa Twin only came with a Phillips head screwdriver. I've heard some AT owners didn't even get that.
This is such useful and quality content. Very refreshing. Thanks Ari and Revzilla!!
Thanks my guy 🙏 I never thought about the bike pump 🤔👍🏻
Great video, thank you! Always learn something
This is a really great video, thank you for making it!
The universe: *crickets*
Me:
Along with zipties I carry precut slotted velcro ties with a screw hole already punched in them. Secure a bundle of anything to anything, then do it again; a few last forever and can be repurposed quickly.
Along with duct tape I carry a good brand of gaffer's tape, in a neon/fluorescent color so the repairs can be easily seen and avoided while riding.
Instead of vinyl electrical tape I carry kapton/polyamide and some bits of shrink tubing. I never recommend the classic "electrician's" tape for anything. We have many better alternatives now.
Super glue/cyanoacrylate along with activator and release agents to speed up curing/removal is VERY useful in splinting plastic bits or broken electronics together.
A couple disposable torch lighters for finishing various repairs (speed up curing of agents, shrink tubing seals against water and dirt, etc)
tiny bottle of 95%+ pure ethanol (food grade leaves no contaminantsbehind and also isopropyl is a petroleum distillate and may harm parts of your bike) and low lint/lint free tekwipes to get things cleaned that benefit from cleaning.
Good one! I’d like to see an episode about the kit carried on tours and adventures also. Thanks.
New rider and the manual tire pump....hello KISS!
I'm going to need a pannier for that much on my r1. Lol I would be lucky to get a wrench to sit somewhere without getting to the battery
Very good ideas. Thank you.
My 08 Yamaha R1 actually came with a very good OEM toolkit to do everything you mentioned in video... I just don't have the extras that you added. Because I literally can't fit a pair of sunglasses under the seat.
Great video!!! This was just the sort of thing I was wondering about. Thanks!!!
Hey Ari. Thanks for all the entertaining and informative vids. I've heard you talk a lot about patching a tubeless tire, as a new rider looking at a T7 with tube tires, it would be great if you could do a video about tube replacement and the tools needed for the process. Cheers!
You may want to check Ryan f 9 Video about repairing tubed tires on the go (not in your garage). He shows how to do it.
@@ernestozilberberg257 Thanks. I love some F9. I couldn't find which video that was in.
Good one! Really helpful!