Motorcycling isn’t just something you do as a hobby; it’s a way of life; the perfect convergence of man and machine, masterfully choreographed and set to the soundtrack of a stuttering exhaust. Whether you’re a pro mechanic or a proud garage mechanic, you sometimes need to reach for the right tool for the right job to keep your bike rolling and drivetrain shifting cleanly. The difference between a light tune-up and a knock-down, drag-out repair session is having the right tool for the job. Below is a roundup of the most important mechanics tools every motorcycle mechanic should have; they will help you ensure your rides stay smooth and reliable.
The Foundation: High-Quality Wrenches
Wrenches are the backbone of any mechanic’s collection, essential and needed for nearly every task on a motorcycle. A nice set of “combo” wrenches (open end on one side, box end on the other) in both metric and standard sizes will do for the vast majority of the nuts and bolts you’ll adjust.
Wrenches that are adjustable can come in handy as well, when sizes are inconsistent. Be careful not to over-torque, since that could strip a fastener.
For more advanced jobs, a torque wrench set is essential. The manufacturer’s recommended torque is tight enough to prevent leaks, but not so tight that the bolts are stressed. Torque wrenches are crucial for parts such as the engine, suspension, and brake components, where it is an absolute necessity that everything be as precise as possible.
Screwdrivers and Hex Keys
You will need some screwdrivers in a mechanics tool set. Several sizes of flathead and Phillips screwdrivers so you can help pull those screws off your body panels, controls, and electrical components.
Then there are Allen wrenches, and they are just as common on motorcycles, from bodywork to internal parts. Ponying up for a high-quality set — go with ball-end hex keys if you can, is a sound investment that can prevent you a lot of frustration because the fasteners fit snugly, decreasing your odds of rounding or otherwise stripping heads.
Pliers and Cutters
There are all kinds of pliers, and they have many applications in motorcycle service. Such tools are used in confined spaces where it is not possible to work with the hands, e.g., to control cables or minor components. These slip-joint pliers give you a great grip on a variety of objects.
Don’t overlook the value of wire cutters to snip cables or chances and locking pliers (vise grips) to firmly grip finicky bits while making adjustments.
Specialty Motorcycle Tools
For anyone who’s doing more than just basic nuts and bolts work, here are some of the specialty tools that can make motorcycle maintenance easier and more precise:
- Chain Breaker and Rivet Tool: Needed for you to change or install your chain
- Spoke Wrench: Used for keeping spoke wheels in line and tension.
- Carburetor Sync Tool: A must among dirt and street riders alike, helps balance and synchronize your carburetors for better fuel economy and cleaner running
- Feeler Gauges: Used to measure small gaps between parts, typically used with valve clearances and spark plugs.
With the help of these special tools, you can bring your bike maintenance game to a professional level.
Diagnostic Tools
Electronic diagnostics are also sometimes necessary for new motorcycles, besides regular mechanical tools. A multimeter is a tool that is invaluable for troubleshooting electrical problems.
If you have a bike with onboard diagnostics (OBD), a compatible diagnostic scanner will give you immediate information about engine performance and any error codes to make the repairs quicker.
Workbench and Organization
There is no set of mechanical tools that is complete without a workspace to work on them.
An adjustable workbench with lights and storage space for your tools keeps everything accessible, meaning you won’t lose any small parts. Magnetic trays and labeled toolboxes also help to keep the workflow and repair time short.
Safety Gear and Maintenance Supplies
As always, be mindful when working on motorcycles, and don’t forget the basics, including gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection. A stock of lubricants, anti-seize compounds, thread lockers, and cleaners will keep you on the straight and narrow and working on a good solid foundation.
Wrapping Up
The proper mechanics tools are essential for anyone serious about maintaining a motorcycle. Whether you ride a sport bike, dirt bike, cruiser, touring bike, motocross-racer, enduro, adventure-tourer, or scooter, you need tools.
By investing in high-quality tools, you can increase the efficiency of your work and help ensure that you don’t damage your bike while you try to repair it. Whether you’re wrenching on your bike or if you spend your days working in a professional shop, having these necessities at the ready will get any job done the first time.
Now, arm yourself with these essential mechanics tools, and leave your motorcycles howling and cruising with bulletproof power!
