Affordable Workshop Essentials For Motorcycle Maintenance

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a big, well-appointed workshop to wrench in, but the truth is you don't need much real estate to work on something as small as a motorcycle. What you do need, however, are some basic supplies. Listed below are our suggestions for making your one-car garage, carport, basement, or even your living room or other small space a functional place to tool on your bike. We know it's basic, but that's the point: It doesn't take much to make working on your own bike more fun and less frustrating.

A raised work surface is more comfortable, helps you stay organized, and it's just more civilized! Building your own workbench is a fun project, but if you're after a convenient solution, you can get a workstation shipped right to your garage for $131. This workbench from Olympia Tools measures about 4 feet wide and includes a storage shelf, two storage drawers, a peg board to hang your tools from, and even a small overhead light. A folding table will work nearly as well and is easier to store when not in use. Just make sure you get a sturdy one.

If you can't see what you're working on, you're going to get frustrated. For decades the go-to garage light was the trusty 48-inch fluorescent, but those heavy, flickering setups are old tech. LED are a better choice since they offer more lumens, less heat, less weight, and a longer service life. Plus, with options like these Hykolity 42-watt LED lights, you can link them end to end with the included power cords, simplifying installation and wiring. Buy 'em individually for $30 each or as a four-pack for $100.

Losing that special shouldered bodywork bolt or accidentally kicking a sprocket nut into a dusty corner is a drag and will delay your project. Parts Platter tool trays provide clean storage and easy organization anywhere you work. They're great for regular maintenance like oil changes or valve-clearance checks, and when they get dirty you can throw 'em out. Use a marker to label the compartments according to component, and reuse the resealable bag as a dust sleeve so your parts stay clean. The recycled-cardboard platters come four in a package and they're oil resistant so they won't leak through.

You won't get much done on your bike without tools, and while any in-depth motorcycle procedure will likely call for specialty equipment, this 170-piece mechanic's set is a good starter pack and should cover most basic maintenance items, all for $100. With a full assortment of sockets and Allen keys you'll be able to change your oil, adjust your levers, replace bulbs, access your air filter, swap spark plugs, and more. There are even SAE sizes in case you ride an American bike or need to work on your Briggs & Stratton. Everything comes in a plastic case so it stays organized.

Engine oil, chain lube, and just plain old grime aren't good for your skin, and unless you have a shop sink (lucky you!) getting your hands clean after wrenchin' could be a challenge. An easy solution? Keep your hands from getting grimy in the first place by pulling on some nitrile gloves like these 8-mil mitts from Gloveworks. If you're one of those stubborn macho dudes who think gloves are for wussies, you could keep a tub of cleaning wipes handy. They're marginally more expensive, but the wipes are also more useful since you can use them not only on your hands but on your tools and even your bike's greasy bits.