Motorcycles are awesome pieces of mechanical genius. They are designed to make traveling places fun, exciting and offer a sense of freedom. As such, motorcycles and their various counterparts must all be maintained carefully to ensure they are both safe and exhilarating to ride.
Sure, many motorcycle owners will do some of their own maintenance, but quite often heading to you, a motorcycle mechanic is par for the course. If you have always dabbled with motorcycle mechanics, and have decided to open your own garage, then there are specific items you will need to have stocked or accessible.
Outfitting a Motorcycle Repair Shop
Torque Wrench –
Practically every fastener on a motorcycle needs a specific torque setting. Be sure to have a well-made wrench with a 3/8-inch drive; a torque with a 10-110ftlb is usually sufficient for most jobs.
Screwdriver Set –
Don’t skimp on the quality! Get a good set that you can hold comfortably. Be sure it has several different sizes so you can tackle any job that comes your way.
Organized Work Bench –
You will be spending a great deal of time at your motorcycle garage, so be sure that you can make the most of that time. An organized workbench, pegboard and storage cabinet will make it easier to get things done.
Fluids and Filters –
You don’t want to make people wait while you go track down oil, filters, etc. Do yourself a favor and have them on hand. You can buy them in bulk from Lifetime Oil, your local AMSOIL dealer. Buying bulk will save you time and money, and minimize customer wait time, too!
Product Cabinet –
There is an assortment of products (filters, oils, cleaners, etc.) that are used in motorcycle repair and maintenance, and many of them shouldn’t be kept out in the open. Have a cabinet or closet where you keep these stored and locked away.
Stereo System –
While not actually a tool for bikes, those long hours in the garage making repairs and upgrades can get lonely. A good sound system will help keep you company.
Wrenches –
Combination wrenches are the best way to go, just be sure to get several different sizes. The most used sizes are 8mm to 19mm, with supplemental ones like the 10mm, 12mm, and 30mm.
Chain-breaking /riveting tool –
These are especially helpful for repairing chains or riveting new ones together.
Other commonly used tools include a foot pump and pressure gauge, an oil drain pan, a battery conditioner, plenty of lighting (not a tool, but quite important!), a T-handle driver, hex keys, wire brushes, a rubber mallet, and a good selection of pliers.
Having the right tools, fluids, and filters on hand when you need them will make your shop more effective and efficient. You don’t want to tell customers, “Sure, I can fix it, but it’s going to take a week or two to get the tools, parts, etc. in”. Yes, there will be special orders, but the more tools of the trade you have in stock, the better. Get the wrenches, the work stand, and other items, and don’t forget the AMSOIL! After all, you want to keep your fellow riders happy and their bike’s wheels on the road.
