Harley Tool Kits: Gone the Way of the Dodo?

Man, I remember when every Harley came with a tool kit that could fix half the bike on the side of the road. Now they're all about digital dashboards and emissions. It's a shame, really. My old Shovelhead had a kit that had everything from wrenches to a points file. Can't beat that.

Tool kits are like insurance - you don't need 'em till you do. But honestly, those factory kits are usually junk anyway. You're better off making your own with decent quality wrenches. I've got a roll of Craftsman that I've had for 30 years, never let me down. If you're gonna ride, you should have your own roadside kit.

My buddy just bought a new Road King and it didn't come with so much as a screwdriver. But hey, that's what cell phones are for - call a tow truck. I'd rather have the weight savings, ha! Seriously though, I put together my own kit with a few Allen wrenches, a multi-tool, and tire plug kit. That covers most stuff.

@DIYDave573 Yeah, the new bikes are so reliable you mostly need to plug a tire or tighten a mirror. But I still miss the nostalgia of opening that little pouch and seeing the proper wrench for your primary. They had the right tool for the job, even if it was a bit basic. I guess progress is progress, but I'll hold onto my old kit.

Yeah, but you know what they say - if you ride long enough, you'll need to fix something. And when you're out in the middle of nowhere, a phone with no signal ain't worth a damn. I always carry a compact wrench set and a few zip ties. Better safe than sorry. It's just common sense.