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My search indicates this topic has been addressed, but it has been a few years.
Facts:
1) I plan a solo ( one up ) trip of a month or more to Rolling Thunder 2014 for a couple of buddies who came back from The Nam and one from Iraq in a box.
2) I have a lot of miles XCountry, but all on metrics or Harley rentals. I'm going to do this on my Cross Bone.
3) Most of the trip will be on parkways without services.
4) I know all too well what personal crap I need to take and what to leave behind.
Questions from a dumb a$$ when it comes to my "new to me scoot:"
1). What needs to be in my softail tool kit?
2). What needs to be in my softail spare parts kit?
Operator level:
A tire plug kit and air pump
A spare bulb for headlights, turn signals, brake lights. (Tickets are expensive)
a quart of oil (if you find you have a slow leak or are low)
brake fluid
fuel stabilizer/gumout/carb cleaner if you get bad gas or water in gas
Spare fuses
Spare main fuse
Techie Level:
Fuel and oil lines are only serviceable if you are a mechanic, fuel filter
Plugs and plug lines are easily replaceable, but rarely go bad. Usually only when the most inconvenient to you.
Tools:
#2 Phillips, #2 Standard screwdrivers (or bit kit with some torc bits (t-15 & t-25)
A socket kit with extensions are useful
Torc bits and socket wrench adapter (up to t-45 or t-55)
pliers
Hose clamp
bailing wire
Electrical tape
Waterproof duct tape
Jumper cables
Flashlight
reflectors or road flare
If you have a Harley extended service warranty, check to see what is covered in regards to towing or trailering. See if it covers loaners or rentals. Verify if it is a warranty from your dealer or from any Harley dealership. Some contracts are specific to the shop the bike or warranty was purchased at.
Look along your route for dealerships, if you find an issue that allows you to drive to it.
Any of the parts you intend to bring, bulbs, plugs, etc. Attempt to change them using your tool kit to ensure you have all necessary tools for the tasks you are comfortable in doing.
If you are due for a service, oil change, etc., do so at least a month prior to your leaving and put some miles on it... Even the best mechanic sometimes forgets to tighten something. Give yourself time to shake out any new mechanical issues that may have occurred during the service.
Check your rain gear, tires, brakes, etc...
Become familiar with the motorcycle laws in the states you may be driving through... Same for CCW, if applicable...
If you are hotelling, check "Booking.com" or "Kayak.com" for last minute deals for alternatives. Often there are last minute deals that beat typical rates.
Cruz tools makes some good packable tools. The tool kit that HD puts in the touring bikes is fairly comprehensive. I would not worry about tire repair stuff. Unless you have a center stand and are good at repairing tubes, your best tools are a cell phone and a credit card.
Cruz tools makes some good packable tools. The tool kit that HD puts in the touring bikes is fairly comprehensive. I would not worry about tire repair stuff. Unless you have a center stand and are good at repairing tubes, your best tools are a cell phone and a credit card.
True.. but some people run tubeless, like the darksiders. If so, you can manage an emergency plug.
Thanks a ton for the sound advice. I'll certainly look into the Cruz Tools. At the moment my rear tire is marginal. My front is mid range. I will replace the rear a couple of months before the trip and probably the front also.
Any advice on the benefits or problems with going tubeless?
You know, during my years of touring I hit 46 states with a sleeping bag and a tent. My skinny bu++ ain't gonna do that any more. I'm camping in motels these days. Thanks for the info on booking rooms. I'll use it for sure.
One thing that has saved either MY bacon, or someone else that's been stuck is just a handful of zip ties. They're light, take up virtually no room, and have a million purposes. I know bailing wire was already listed, and maybe with the same intent...
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