There’s something about a well-packed tool roll that says, “I ride, and I’m ready for anything.” At Bronco Iron, we live by that creed. Whether you’re tearing through a mountain pass or stuck roadside with a stubborn bolt, the right tools can turn frustration into a minor pit stop—and maybe even a good story. We believe that in life, control the controllables, and let everything else fall to adventure. Chase the highs, ride the lows, place your bets but don’t forget to have yourself a good time!
Over the years, I’ve refined and trimmed down my on-bike toolkit to the bare essentials. No fluff. Just the gear that has earned its keep. Here’s what rides with me in my tool roll—tested, trusted, and ready for war with vibration, rust, and road grime.
First, selecting the correct tool sleeve is critical in ensuring that all tools can be housed. A feature worth looking out for is the side zipper pouch which can carry all the small odds and ends, the “junk draw”.
Wrenches are non-negotiable. I carry SAE combo wrenches in 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, and 5/8″—the standard Harley sizes. Then come the hex keys, because Harley loves a good Allen bolt. I pack 3/16″ up to 3/8″, in a foldable or L-key style. Remember that we are dealing with imperials sizes here, make America great again! Then I have a custom made light weight wheel wrench for removal of front and rear tires.
Torx bits? You bet. T25, T27, T30, and T40 covers most fasteners you’ll meet. A compact socket set (1/4″, and 1/2″ combinations) adds muscle for the tight stuff—plus a 5/8″ spark plug socket specifically for my Sporty.
Which Rachet? you need to think lightweight, triple purpose. Therefore, we use the brilliant combination rachet ( 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ Rachet) as the secret weapon in keeping the weight of the tool roll down. Try for a short and stubby handle as seen below, perfect to fit into your tool sleeve.
To cover all the bases, I throw in a multi-bit screwdriver or Leatherman, needle-nose pliers, some good ol’ zip ties and electrical tape. A few fuses, a rag, and a set of nitrile gloves to round it off. Oh, one last thing, don’t forget a spare battery for your FOB!
Want to go full apocalypse-prepper? Add a small adjustable wrench and a mini tube of blue Loctite—because loose bolts are the devil.
That’s it. Compact. Capable. Carried on every ride.
So, before your next rip through the Karoo or coast down Chapman’s Peak, roll up your kit like a boss. Your Harley deserves it.
Let us know what you carry and if we have missed anything?
1. Wrenches
- Combination wrenches (SAE preferred for Harley):
- 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 5/8″
2. Allen (Hex) Keys
- SAE sizes:
- 3/16″, 1/4″, 5/16″, 3/8″
- Prefer L-key type or a folding set
3. Torx Keys or Bits
- Common sizes for Harleys:
- T25, T27, T30, T40
4. Socket Set (Compact)
- 1/4″ and 3/8″ and 1/2″ Combination wrench
- SAE sockets:
- 3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″
- Spark plug socket (usually 5/8″ for Sportsters)
- drain plug socket (usually 5/8″ for Sportsters)
5. Screwdrivers
- Compact multi-bit or:
- Phillips #2
- Flathead medium
6. Pliers
- Needle nose pliers
7. Miscellaneous
- Zip ties
- Electrical tape
- Fuses (common amp ratings used on your model)
- Rags or gloves
8. Optional Additions
- Small adjustable wrench
- Loctite (blue) in a mini tube
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