DIY Bike Toolkit for Under $25
Hey folks,
Thom from Thom Fixes here. We’re all about DIY for motorcycle lovers, and today we’re tackling a common expense – your toolkit. Let’s see how we can build one without breaking the bank.
I recently tackled this with my 1982 Honda XL80s, and I’m here to show you how you can do the same for your ride, whatever model it might be. The goal? To keep more cash in your pocket for actual riding.
Step 1: Assessing Your Bike’s Needs
First off, you’ve got to know what tools your bike actually needs. For my Honda XL80s, I needed:
- 8mm, 10mm, 12mm wrenches
- 8mm, 10mm, 12mm sockets, with socket wrench
- A spark plug socket
- Screw driver(s)
- Pliers
- Spare fuses (various sizes, 5-15A are most common, to cover you or your buddy’s bike)
- Tire pressure gauge
- Zap straps, electrical tape, spare wire, carabiners, bungee cord, shoe goo,
- and whatever else you might think is handy (e.g. medical or safety equipment).
I found this out by Google searching for pre-made tool kits for my bike. Once I found one, I clicked on the details to see all the required wrench sizes and alike.
TIP: In addition to online sleuthing, check your bike’s manual, or look up the OEM schematics for your bike, sometimes they have a schematic for the actual tool kit, like this!
Step 2: The Thrifty Hunt
I hit up local flea markets, garage sales, and even scoured my own garage. Here, the goal is to find quality tools at bargain prices. Look for:
- Second-hand tools: Often just as good as new and much cheaper. Look for tools made in USA, Japan, Europe, or Canada. Avoid Chinese-made tools if you can help it.
- Multi-tools: These can cover a range of sizes and functions, saving space and money. A Leatherman, with a saw, is a great one!
Step 3: Building Your Toolkit
For my setup, I used an old lunch box – yeah, you read that right. It’s waterproof, durable, and I strapped it to the back of my bike with some heavy-duty zip ties. But here are other ideas:
- Tool Roll: I’m planning to make my own, but if you want to purchase one, here’s an Amazon option: https://amzn.to/42588G6
- Old Ammo Can: If you’ve got one lying around, they’re tough and weather-resistant.
- Bike-specific Bags: Look for saddlebags or tail bags that are meant for motorcycle storage.
Step 4: Custom Fit for Your Ride
The beauty of DIY is customization. I zip-tied my lunch box to the back fender area of my Honda XL80S, making sure it was secure but still accessible. Think about your bike’s layout:
- Where can you mount your toolkit?
- How can you secure it for safety during rides?
Step 5: The Final Touch
Once everything’s in place, test it out. Ride with your new toolkit setup, check if it stays put, and make adjustments as needed. Remember, the goal is not just to save money but to ensure your toolkit is as functional as it is frugal.
In closing, whether you’re tweaking an XL80s like mine or any other bike, building your own toolkit is about more than saving a few bucks. It’s about understanding your machine, being self-reliant, and getting back on the road faster when those inevitable gremlins show up.
For more DIY tips, check out the rest of my blog, and if you’ve got your own toolkit hacks.
