My wife and I just bought our first touring model. Can I have some input on the essentials we should always have in one of the bags? Specific tools, gear etc. Thanks.

 

NECK WARMER
RAIN GEAR..
CLEAR GLASSES
TOOLS ARE USELESS

 

I'm lucky that I've been able to ride more than 10,000 miles per year for the last several years. I keep quite a few different things on the bike but the following I use more than any others...

Chap-stick, hand wipes, eye drops, ball point pen, and a tire pressure gauge.

I do carry maps, a spare headlight bulb, fuses, a few basic hand tools, small flashlight, few zip ties, First Aid kit, rain suit, clean rag, and Plexus cleaner.

Hope that helps!

 

congrates on the bike...whatever you bring just be sure to even out the weight in both bags

 

great list so far. I would add: spray on sunscreen, Gold Bond powder to keep ya dry and comfy on those long rides......
I also carry a Windzone tool kit and a 6' chain to lock the bike to something.

 

Spare glasses clear and shaded.
Even on warm days take a jacket or sweatshirt - hell you have the room.
Staying later than planned when the sun drops getting cold on the ride home will only happen once.

 

Rain gear, sunscreen, rolaids, and did I say rain gear?

 

Congrats on the choice of bike and welcome...Not to be a smart a$$ but there have been some really great posts under the touring section...sorry, cannot remember exactly but if you narrow your search by touring catagory, if you have not already, there are quite a few..One thing, if you do not have yetis a tour pak lid organizer...check out e-bay first..

 

just make sure you dont dress to "lite"
wear layers, gets hot take em off!
all the rest, you'll learn,, each ride will be an education for your specific needs!

tip... make mama cumfy!!!!!!

 

Essential tool kit for touring: 1 cell phone + 1 credit card. With these, you can fix just bout anything on that bike!!!