Mar 30, 2026
[New Standards] Motorcycle Engine Displacement Categories: Maintenance Costs, Traffic Rules, and Licenses for Each Displacement
Top 6 Motorcycle Tool Kits for Beginners in 2021! Great Value & Perfect for Maintenance!
Points to Consider When Choosing Motorcycle Maintenance Tools
From daily maintenance to custom part installation, a tool set is convenient to have. There are various manufacturers and set contents for tool sets, and it's easy to get lost thinking "Which one should I choose?" We also hear stories of people choosing based on low price, only to have the tools break due to poor strength, or low precision tools stripping screw holes. To avoid such problems, this section carefully explains how to choose a tool set and the key points to consider when making your selection. Please pay close attention to these points and choose the tool set that's right for you.
Point 1. Check the contents of the tool set! See if the tools can be used for your motorcycle.
https://bikeman.jp/bikemodel/16922
When choosing a tool set, first check if the contents are tools that can be used for your motorcycle. The necessary tools vary depending on the model, so first check if the tools can be used for the maintenance or customization you want to perform. For wrench and socket sets, you'll often use combination wrenches and sockets around 8-17mm (8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm). While 11mm and 13mm might be used for some imported vehicles, you'll rarely use them if you ride a Japanese motorcycle, so it's fine to exclude them. Also, tool standards come in mm and inches; Japanese cars use mm, while imported cars like Harleys use inch standards. You cannot use mm-standard tools for inch-standard applications, so be careful. When choosing tools, first check if the tools can be used for your motorcycle.
Are on-board tools sufficient?
Many motorcycles come with on-board tools, so some of you might think those are sufficient. However, on-board tools are intended for temporary emergency use, so their quality is not exactly stellar, and their durability is questionable for repeated use. Low-precision tools can strip screw holes or bolt threads, or break easily, leading to unnecessary trouble. To avoid this, it's a good idea to have a separate set of dedicated tools.
What are the minimum necessary tools for beginners or first-timers?
For beginners who have just started riding motorcycles, or those looking to buy tools for the first time, we recommend choosing a tool set that includes the necessary tools for maintenance. A combination wrench and spanner (8mm to 17mm), an adjustable wrench, and Phillips and flathead screwdrivers should be sufficient for basic maintenance like tightening bolts. It's a good idea to start with a tool set for maintenance.
Check if the tool standard matches your motorcycle.
Tool standards come in mm (metric) and inch sizes. Mm and inch sizes are not interchangeable, so if the standards are different, you cannot use them. Japanese vehicles use mm sizes, while imported vehicles like Harleys use inch sizes, so choose tools that match the standard of your motorcycle.
Point 2. It's even better if there's storage space for additional tools you might purchase later!
Even if you buy a tool set, you may need to purchase additional tools for certain tasks, and your tool collection can grow. It will be convenient to have enough storage space for additional tools later on. Keeping your tools organized in one place can help you avoid searching for tools when you need them or buying duplicate tools because you thought you didn't have them. Consider choosing a tool set that includes space for additional tools, anticipating future purchases.
Point 3. If you're considering on-board tools or portability, choose a compact one.
If you're looking for on-board tools or tools for portability, such as keeping them on your motorcycle or taking them to a circuit, choose a compact set. For on-board tools, storage space on a motorcycle is limited, so you'll only need the absolute minimum number of tools. If you often carry tools to places like circuits, a heavy set can be cumbersome, so choose a compact tool set. Choosing a plastic case instead of a metal one can also reduce the weight.
Check out popular major manufacturers! Excellent cost performance in durability and ease of use.
In this section, we introduce major tool manufacturers. These are all highly renowned and proven manufacturers, both domestic and international, so if you find a manufacturer that interests you, be sure to check them out.
【KTC】If you're looking for durability
KTC is a highly durable Japanese tool brand manufactured and sold by "Kyoto Machine Tool." It boasts the highest annual production and variety of tools in Japan, making it a classic tool manufacturer used by a wide range of people, from professionals to beginners just starting to handle tools. Committed to quality, they continue to manufacture in Japan and are a recommended brand easily available at home centers and other stores. They offer a comprehensive range of tools, from special tools to beginner-friendly tool sets, and you'll likely find almost all the tools you need from KTC.
【TONE】If you're looking for design
TONE is a Japanese tool brand manufactured and sold by Maeda Metal. While not as widely known, its high quality, characteristic of Japanese manufacturing, and excellent design make it popular among professionals. It's priced according to its quality, making it a bit expensive, but it's recommended for those who want to use good tools for a long time. It's also an easily accessible tool brand, as many home centers carry their products.
【Astro Products】If you're looking for an affordable price
Source: https://www.astro-p.co.jp/i/2012000002043
Astro Products is characterized by its affordability and easy accessibility. While its quality may be inferior to brands like KTC and TONE, its low price makes it ideal for those who primarily want a tool set. Another feature is the wide variety of tools they sell, including specialized tools used by professionals. Furthermore, with stores nationwide, you can physically examine tools, and receive advice on their usage from staff.
【Snap-on】If you're looking for the high-end choice favored by professionals
Source: https://www.snapon.co.jp/products/info.php?pID=104&gID=118&pg=0&qID=8147
Snap-on is a popular American tool manufacturer among professionals. They have strong confidence in their product quality, offering to replace tools if they break, which is reflected in their higher prices. Snap-on is also famous for developing socket wrenches and ratchet handles, and its name comes from the ability to snap on and off by twisting the wrist. The price of Snap-on tools is more than double that of brands like KTC, making them a high-end tool favored by professionals, almost a status symbol.
【High Cost Performance】6 Recommended Motorcycle Maintenance Tool Sets!
This section introduces recommended tool sets. From motorcycle beginners who want to keep tools on hand, to those who want to replace parts and perform maintenance themselves. We introduce everything from essential tool sets to sets with a large number of tools that can handle a variety of tasks. Having a tool set will increase your opportunities to work on your bike, and you'll grow to love your cherished ride even more.
1. "SIGNET" + "Motorcycle Tool Set 81245sn"
https://bikeman.jp/
This is a compact tool set from SIGNET that comes in a soft case. It includes 8, 10, 12, and 14mm combination wrenches, as well as combination pliers and long-nose pliers, making it a tool set with the minimum necessary tools for maintenance. When the case is closed, it measures 195mm wide x 260mm deep, making it a convenient tool set that doesn't take up much storage space.
| Number of tools | 13 items |
| Additional storage space | None |
| Main set contents | Combination wrench Adjustable wrench Radio pliers Combination pliers (+) Driver (-) Driver Nippers Stubby driver (+), (-) Folding soft case |
| Size | 195×260×35mm |
2. "SIGNET" + "Maintenance Tool Set"
https://bikeman.jp/
This is a 47-piece maintenance tool set from SIGNET. With 13 socket sizes ranging from 8mm to 32mm, this tool set is highly recommended for those who frequently use sockets. It also includes water pump pliers, which will be useful for brake pad replacement. It comes in a three-drawer chest box, so it's not ideal for portability, but it can store additional tools you might purchase later.
| Number of tools | 47 items |
| Additional storage space | Yes |
| Main set contents | 1/2”SQ Socket (Hex): 8・10・11・12・13・14・17・19・21・22・24・27・30・32mm 1/2”SQ Ratchet Handle 1/2”SQ Extension Bar: 125・250mm 1/2”SQ Spinner Handle: 250mm 1/2”SQ Universal Joint Combination Wrench: 8・10・12・13・14・17・19mm Hexagon Wrench Set: 9PC Flathead Driver: 6.0×100・8.0×150 Phillips Driver: #1×75・#2×100mm Stubby Phillips Driver: #2×36mm Stubby Flathead Driver: 6.5×36mm Adjustable Wrench: 250mm Combination Pliers: 200mm Long Nose Pliers: 165mm Nippers: 165mm Water Pump Pliers: 300mm Grip Pliers: 235mm Measuring Tape, Center Punch: 100・120mm Chisel Wire Brush Key Ball Pein Hammer: 16oz Toolbox (SG504) |
| Size | 530×230×312mm |
3. "KTC" + "Maintenance Tool Set SK3434S"
https://bikeman.jp/
The KTC Maintenance Tool Set SK3434S is a comprehensive tool set containing the necessary tools for motorcycle maintenance and custom part installation. The set includes 9.5sq. sockets (8mm-19mm), combination wrenches, screwdrivers, and combination pliers, which is more than enough for home use. With KTC's renowned stable Japanese quality, this tool set is built to last.
| Number of tools | 43 items |
| Weight | 10kg |
| Main set contents | 9.5sq. socket (B3-08・10・12・13・14・17・19) Deep socket (B3L-08・10・12・14) Ratchet handle (BR3E) Extension bar (BE3-075・150) Quick spinner (BE3-Q) Combination wrench (M5-0810・1012・1214・1417・1719・2224) Combination wrench (MS2-08・10・12・13・14・17) Resin handle driver (D1M2-5・6) Resin handle driver (D1P2-1・2・3) Short stubby driver (SD4-P) Combination pliers (PJ-200) Long nose pliers (PSL-150) Nippers (PN1-150) L-shaped hex wrench set 7 pieces (HL107 (2.5・3・4・5・6・8・10) |
| Size | 405×200×170mm |
4. "SIGNET" + "Mechanic Tool Set Double Opening 9.5SQ"
https://bikeman.jp/
This SIGNET tool set pursues high quality and affordability. It's a comprehensive tool set with a wide range of tools for various tasks, from maintenance to custom part installation. The toolbox is designed for user-friendliness, with a double-opening lid that makes it easy to access tools even in narrow spaces. This tool set is recommended for those looking for a set with a larger number of tools.
| Number of tools | 46 items |
| Additional storage space | None |
| Weight | 11.8kg |
| Main set contents | 3/8” Ratchet Handle Sockets (6-point): 8･10･12･13･14･17･19･21･22･24mm Deep Sockets: 8･10･12･14･17mm Extension Bars: 75mm・150mm Swivel Gear Wrenches: 8･10･12･13･14･17mm Universal Joint Sliding T-Handle Spinner Handle: 380mm 45° Offset Box End Wrenches: 8×10･10×12･11×13･12×14･14×17･17×19･22×24mm Heavy Duty Long Nose Pliers: 160mm Heavy Duty Diagonal Pliers: 160mm Slip Joint Pliers Adjustable Wrench: 250mm Ball Pein Hammer: 12oz Long Ball Hex Wrench Set: 9PC Soft Grip (+) Screwdrivers: #1･2･3 Soft Grip (-) Screwdrivers: 5.5･6.0 Stubby Ratchet Driver Double Opening Toolbox |
| Size | 410×200×230mm |
5. "SIGNET" + "3/8DR Tool Set"
https://bikeman.jp/
This is a 44-piece tool set from SIGNET.
The set includes 9 sockets (8-22mm), a ratchet, 9 combination wrenches (8-22mm), Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, stubby Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and all other tools necessary for inspections and parts installation.
Since it also includes 11mm sockets and combination wrenches, this set can also be used for industrial products such as home appliances.
The lightweight resin case reduces the burden of carrying it around.
| Number of tools | 44 pieces |
| Main set contents | 3/8” SQ Sockets (with holder): 8・10・11・12・13・14・17・19・22mm 3/8” SQ Deep Sockets (with holder): 10・12・13・14・17mm 3/8” SQ Spark Plug Sockets: 5/8・13/16” Combination Wrenches: 8・10・11・12・13・14・17・19・22mm 3/8” SQ Extension Bars: 75・150mm 3/8” SQ Ratchet Handle Phillips Screwdrivers: #1×75・#2×100・#3×150mm Flathead Screwdrivers: 6.0×100・8.0×150mm Stubby Phillips Screwdriver: #2×36mm Stubby Flathead Screwdriver: 6.5×36mm Adjustable Wrench: 250mm Long Nose Pliers: 165mm Combination Pliers: 200mm Diagonal Pliers: 165mm Ball Pein Hammer: 12oz Locking Pliers: 235mm Socket Holders: 245mm × 2 pcs Resin Super Box (with tray) |
| Size | 400×225×203mm |
6. "KTC" + "Maintenance Tool Set sk322p"
https://bikeman.jp/
This is a compact tool set from KTC.
The set primarily consists of frequently used tools such as sockets, a ratchet, combination wrenches, and screwdrivers.
The case is a hard plastic single-opening type, sized conveniently for portability.
It doesn't take up much storage space and is recommended as a first tool set for those just starting out.
| Number of tools | 22 pieces |
| Additional storage space | None |
| Weight | 3.2Kg |
| Main set contents | 9.5sq. Sockets (B3-055, 07, 08, 10, 12, 13, 14, 17, 19, 22mm) 9.5sq. Ratchet Handle (BR3E) 9.5sq. Extension Bars (Power Fit) (BE3-075, 150mm) 9.5sq. Spinner Handle (BS3E) 9.5sq. Universal Joint (BJ3) Combination Wrenches (Power Fit) (MS2-08, 10, 12, 14mm) Resin Handle Flathead Screwdriver (D1M2-6) Resin Handle Phillips Screwdriver (D1P2-2) Combination Pliers (with soft grip) (PJ-200) |
Summary
Having a tool set on hand allows riders to perform routine inspections, maintenance, and even brake pad replacements themselves.
For motorcycle beginners or those looking to assemble their first tool collection, a set containing all the necessary maintenance tools is highly recommended.
KTC, a brand widely available at home centers, offers a balanced choice in terms of quality (precision), durability, and price.
If you plan to add more tools later, choosing a set with ample storage space in its case is advisable, as it helps consolidate tools and prevents them from getting lost.
Having a tool set will increase your opportunities to work on your bike, further deepening your affection for your beloved machine.
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