What tools should I carry in my tool bag and are there any classes out there to teach me how to work on my bike?

What tools should I carry in my tool bag and are there any classes out there to teach me how to work on my bike?

by Laura
(Altoona PA)

I was wondering if anyone could give me a list of tools that I should carry in my tool bag? I asked where I bought my bike and they kinda gave me the well you need this and that and we can sell you the tools and that will be $250. I don't think so! Walmart is much cheaper.

Second question: Anyone heard of maintenance classes to teach me how to change the oil, spark plugs, and what to do if my bike breaks down. I don't have a guy around so any help would be appreciated!

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What tools should I carry in my tool bag and are there any classes out there to teach me how to work on my bike?

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Apr 02, 2009

What Tools?
by: Anonymous

I am a retired carpenter who always did my own car and bike work. Cheap tools are no good. You can catch a sale on a basic Craftsman socket set (metric for metric bikes) for around $39. Add a Craftsman #2 Phillips screwdriver and a 3/16 flat screwdriver (about 6 inches long) for about $2.50 each. Most bikes will require hex head (Allen) wrenches. I gave $9.50 for a good set in a plastic clip. I would also carry an adjustable wrench (Crescent wrench) about 8 inches in length. This wrench needs to be good quality and may be around $10-15. Add a set of 6 or 8 good end wrenches with an open and "box" end for about $20. A roll of electrician's tape is about $1 and will fix a variety of ailments temporarily Remember, if you break down another biker will stop to help you. Having these tools will help him or her to get you going.

Jul 14, 2008

Working on ones own bike, etc.
by: Laura

A really great source of information about any bike is the Clymer brand manual. It has everything you need to know, and pictures, very easy to understand. I would go to a pawn shop, or flea market, once you figure out what tools you need, there you can save some cash. Very good investment with the manual. I have had one for every bike I have owned. About $30-$35, we found mine on e-bay. Good luck.

Jul 12, 2008

Thank You!!!
by: Laura

Thanks, I will check with here with the area colleges to see if they offer classes. I also will stop at the dealership and order my book and tool kit :)

Jul 08, 2008

Tools
by: Jessica

So I really should go down to the garage and grab the tool set that came with my 2006 Honda Shadow Aero and tell you whats in it, because it used to be a standard free tool kit with all honda bike (they stopped including it in 07 models). I remember it had a couple wrenches, screw drivers, etc- the basics. As far as classes, well I live in the bay area (california) and i took a women's motorcycle maintenance course at City College in San Francisco. It was a two-day course that went over how a motorcycle works and basic maintenance. I even changed my own oil! It was about $200 I think and the instructors and students were all women!

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What tools should I carry in my tool bag and are there any classes out there to teach me how to work on my bike?

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What tools should I carry in my tool bag and are there any classes out there to teach me how to work on my bike?