Taking my EVO on the road
Novice
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 17
Likes: 1
From: Sao Miguel Azores
Black electrical tape I would add and a small LED flashlite and you should be good to go with the above mentioned. Before you leave to check the basics, check all the fluids, air in the tires and look it over good to see anything that stands out. There a lot of biker out there that will help if there is a problem. Check Facebook, their is a Motorcycle breakdown or emergency page that you can post if you have a problem, NORTH AMERICA BIKER RESCUE it is there with fellow riders with tools, trailers and help with repairs and is monitored 24/7.
I Sent mine last Sept. to mainland Europe with 63,000 on it and put on about 2500 miles in 14 days on my 1996 Road King, she more than kept up with everyone and did not skip a beat!! I gave her a kiss when we returned!! I do maintain her very well!!!
I Sent mine last Sept. to mainland Europe with 63,000 on it and put on about 2500 miles in 14 days on my 1996 Road King, she more than kept up with everyone and did not skip a beat!! I gave her a kiss when we returned!! I do maintain her very well!!!
Last edited by Marc1340; May 28, 2017 at 01:13 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 9,332
Likes: 3,873
From: Upstate New York
Been taking road trips on my '94 FLSTN for over 23 years. I carry some basic tools, but rarely ever have to use them. I take very good care of my bike and it has never disappointed me.
At 208,000 miles, I've been doing this for a while.
At 208,000 miles, I've been doing this for a while.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 2,530
Likes: 546
From: Wayne County, PA
Take the versys.... Way more reliable. I love my evo BUT, to claim it's reliable as the yamaha is just wrong. The versys would be more comfortable on long days in the saddle too. Better seat and back position.
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 942
Likes: 323
From: Grew up in Texas, moved to AZ
I do carry lots of tools, but have not had to use much. I would bring extra exhaust flange nuts, because I had those rattle off. I also carry assorted nuts and bolts.
You just want to double check your battery connection for tightness. One thing that has save my butt is a solenoid push start button.
Lastly, a phone. :-)
You just want to double check your battery connection for tightness. One thing that has save my butt is a solenoid push start button.
Lastly, a phone. :-)
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 6,085
Likes: 1,128
From:
I bought a shaving kit case many years ago.
Then started adding the basic service tools to it that i was using.
That and a small 12 volt tire pump with some slime.
A AAA RV plus card as mentioned before would be a good idea...
Then started adding the basic service tools to it that i was using.
That and a small 12 volt tire pump with some slime.
A AAA RV plus card as mentioned before would be a good idea...
Club Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 22,861
Likes: 17,917
From: Lafayette, Louisiana
In addition to what has been mentioned, flush the entire brake system thoroughly and check pads for wear and unusual wear patterns.
Have a look at your battery. Have a look at it's age.
Be sure to tell your bank you are going on a trip otherwise they may lock down your debit card or credit cards due to out of state purchases being flagged as suspicious activity.
Have a look at your battery. Have a look at it's age.
Be sure to tell your bank you are going on a trip otherwise they may lock down your debit card or credit cards due to out of state purchases being flagged as suspicious activity.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,726
Likes: 3,071
From: Brighton, MI
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Tourer
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 256
Likes: 175
From: Fountain Hills, Arizona
After riding a shovelhead FLH throughout europe back in the late 70's, I had quite a toolkit accumulated (and well used). Then I bought a new FLHS in 1989, and put the same kit on board. Many miles later..... never even opened it. The suggestions made by others are good, however your bike probably isn't going to give you any cause for concern.
Berth, pictured below, has an original toolkit. I carry a crimping tool for wire connectors and a few zip ties also. And have yet to use any of them on a trip.
Good luck and enjoy yourself. Your evo will be fine.
Berth, pictured below, has an original toolkit. I carry a crimping tool for wire connectors and a few zip ties also. And have yet to use any of them on a trip.
Good luck and enjoy yourself. Your evo will be fine.
Thread Starter
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Tourer
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 442
Likes: 30
From: Florida
Thanks again for all the great input. I have begun to put my kit together. The only trouble I have had with my bike has been electrical. I have replaced the stator. And I think the bike is mechanically solid. But I think the 25 year old wires are failing. I have replace two of the wires connecting the ignition switch.
I have considered replacing the entire wiring system but have been advised that that is a very tedious task and probably unnecessary. But I wonder if there is an intermediary step I could take. Replace the wires most at risk for failure that would leave me stranded or that are must subject to deterioration.
The prior owner had an accent lighting system on the bike that I have removed, but I think it may not have been installed correctly and may have caused some electrical issues. The bike also lived part of its life outside and has some corrosion so it is also possible that period of its life subjected the wiring system to some deterioration.
I am a preventative maintenance guy. I have left many of the corroded parts on the bike. I like that it looks like a 25 year old bike. But I want it to be solid mechanically. But I also understand the philosophy of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".
I have considered replacing the entire wiring system but have been advised that that is a very tedious task and probably unnecessary. But I wonder if there is an intermediary step I could take. Replace the wires most at risk for failure that would leave me stranded or that are must subject to deterioration.
The prior owner had an accent lighting system on the bike that I have removed, but I think it may not have been installed correctly and may have caused some electrical issues. The bike also lived part of its life outside and has some corrosion so it is also possible that period of its life subjected the wiring system to some deterioration.
I am a preventative maintenance guy. I have left many of the corroded parts on the bike. I like that it looks like a 25 year old bike. But I want it to be solid mechanically. But I also understand the philosophy of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it".