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The tool kit that comes with a CT is light and compact. Like the toolkits that come with most motorcycles,
it is effective for basic maintenance, but limits anything more ambitious. This may be a deliberate ploy by
manufacturers to discourage would-be mechanics from getting in deeper than their skills should permit.
Below is the tool kit issued with the CT's sold in New Zealand. There have been variations in content over
the years and in different countries, but this one serves to show the basic nature of the kit.



My current tool kit has been settled upon over several years by trying to use only the tool roll carried on
the bike for all work, adding tools as required and removing anything that is not essential. This is an ongoing
process with adjustments being made as superior tools are acquired. Keeping size and weight to a minimum
is very important. All up weight of this tool roll is 2400g (5.25lb) and it measures 11x4.5 inches.



Tool roll "unfurled", showing how compartments in the roll keep each tool in its place. The roll
was sold as an artist's paintbrush holder, complete with a dozen brushes, for about $10.



Here are the tools removed from their pouches but in the same relative positions as above.

Numbering the pouches from from left to right, the contents of each pouch are :

1) Small and medium cable-ties
2) Large cable-ties, Combination screw driver set, Electrical screwdriver, Tyre gauge
3) Tyre iron.
4) Multi-tool, Misc bits container (detailed below).
5) Box wrenches for clutch and spark plug, Tappet adjust tool, File.
6) Adjustable spanner, Vice-grips
7) Combination spanners in 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 14mm
8) Tyre irons x2, Hacksaw blade.


The "Misc bits container" holds
- Allen keys (for fittings specific to my bike, not otherwise needed)
- Sockets 8, 10, 12mm
- Gauge shims .002" .003" .025"
- Split pins
- Several small rare-eath magnets.



Tool roll ready to go, with other items also carried
- Inner tube and rim tape
- Puncture repair kit (inside tube container)
- Tyre pump - pushbike type.



Further thoughts :

+ Carrying tools to dismantle the clutch or split the engine cases is pointless for me.
If work of this extent is needed, it's beyond my ability to do at the side of the road.

+ Download a CT manual from the web and carry it on a USB drive. It can be used to
show the parts dept exactly what you want to buy, or a mechanic can use it if he is
unfamiliar with the CT.

+ The rare-earth magnets? They bind the contents of the plastic container tightly together
so they don't rattle. Also useful for picking up that tiny screw that is always fated to fall into the dirt.

+ Tool kits are very personal, so develop one that you are happy with. I have a comfortable
relationship with this one as it mets my needs and suits my way of working, but there was a lot
of ruthless elimination to begin with, getting rid of items that were not essential and overcoming
my tendency towards trying to cater for every possible situation.

+ Three tyre irons? I have tried using just two, or two and a screwdriver, but find that three irons
are easier and there is less chance of pinching the tube.

Cheers,
Bernard (NZ)