Emergency Motorcycle First Aid and Safety Kits

[Jiggles]

I wanted to compile a list of necessities you should bring with you on rides and with everyone's help I think we can do that.

You should always have with you some necessities in case your bike breaks down, you or someone else crashes or zombies attack. Depending on what kind of rider you are and where you go your necessities may be different than someone else's. So, I've broken down a few different levels of riding each corresponding to a different type of rider or different riding route. Each level has storage space, "Necessities" stuff you always want to have with you just in case, and "Nice To Have's" stuff that isn't as important but can be helpful in certain situations.

Level One: City Commuter, Always within range of other people, houses/buildings and cell phone service. In a city or suburb
Capacity: Undertail trunk space, pockets

Level Two: Twisty Rider, May not be within range of other people or cell phone service, emergency services and towing not readily available
Capacity: Undertail trunk space, pockets, backpack or tankbag

Level Three: Tourer, May be up to hundreds of miles away from intended destination, unreliable cell signal and emergency services
Capacity: Undertail trunk space, pockets, backpack or tankbag, top case or side case

Level Four: Multi-day Tourer, May be up to thousands of miles away from intended destination, unreliable cell and emergency service, may resort to camping or hotels
Capacity: As much as is humanly possible to strap to the bike.

Each level requires more items for their Safety Kit and will also include all the necessities of the previous levels.

Necessities: These are things you will need in the event that your moto breaks down or you crash. If possible you'll want to be able to repair your motorcycle and yourself and continue on. If a bad enough crash occurs you'll want to be able to apply first aid to you or another rider until emergency crews arrive. In certain places it could be hours before an ambulance or life flight arrives.

Nice To Have's: These are things that will be nice to have in an emergency situation but not entirely necessary for your well being. This can range from anything from a satellite phone to a GoPro to extra snacks to fight hunger before your next stop.

Level One (City)

Necessities

• Phone
• OEM Toolkit or better
• Zipties
• Duct Tape (wrap a small amount around a golf pencil for easy storage)
• $5-$20 In storage compartment for emergencies

Nice To Have's

• GoPro
• Sunglasses
• Earplugs
• Utili-key
• Tire Gauge
• Zip-lock bags (good for waterproofing electronics)

Level Two (Twisty)

Necessities

• Larger toolkit (pack tools to replace foot pegs or shifter and other aftermarket parts needed to operate the bike)
• GPS or Smartphone with preloaded maps of area
• Tire Repair Kit (w/ CO2 cartridge or tire pump)
• Knife and Whistle
• First Aid Kit (Simple, denoted below)
• Latex Gloves for Wound Treatment
• Tourniquet
• Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen (in plastic baggy)
• Bandaids
• Bandages
• Wound Cleanser

Nice To Have's

• Bottled Water and Snacks (nuts, fiber or power bars)
• Light Duty Gloves for Repairs
• SPOT Satellite GPS
• Microfiber Cloth and Windex in Small Spray Bottle
• 550 Paracord (click for benefits)

Level Three (Tourer)

Necessities

• Small Flashlight
• Bottled Water and Snacks (nuts, fiber or power bars)
• Heated Grips, Hand Warmers, or Thick Winter Gloves (for unexpected cold nights/rain)
• Rain Gear (impermeable jacket and pants that fit over your gear)
• Bungee Cords or Nylon Rope
• First Aid Kit (Complex, Denoted below) Need additional items for this, think of what else you would add if you had a top case or side cases

Nice To Have's

• Portable USB Charger (for phones, other devices) or Spare Batteries
  

Level Four (Multi-Day)

Necessities

• Cash

Nice To Have's

• Anti Monkey Butt Powder
• Toilet Paper
• Spare Clutch Cable
• Spare Brake and Clutch Levers

So post up what you think would be good to add to each list and why. Assume the capacity is as I have stated it and determine whether your item is a need or a want. If it's a special product like the SPOT gps I posted, add a link so I can hyperlink the text in case someone wants to purchase it to add to their kit.

[alex.s]

light. it saves lives every day.

a blade comes in very handy when you need to cut limbs off.

[himynameisjoe]

Originally Posted by alex.s

light. it saves lives every day.

a blade comes in very handy when you need to cut limbs off.

Or fend off homeless people!

[lgk]

Level One:
Necessities
A small roll of duct tape
smart phone/camera
$5 bill
nice to have
sunglasses
ear plugs
spare key

Level Two:
experience driven tool kit
tire plug kit
first aid kit
energy bar
nice to have
extra visor
visor cleaning solution
extra gloves
raingear
bear deterrent(don't ask)

[Jiggles]

Originally Posted by lgk

Level One:
Necessities
A small roll of duct tape
smart phone/camera
$5 bill

explanation for these three? Why a smartphone?

[alex.s]

Originally Posted by Jiggles

explanation for these three? Why a smartphone?

to get on ninjette and post photos while you wait for the wrecker, DUH!

[Alex]

Toilet paper. One use case that neither WD-40 or duct tape can reliably tackle.

[alex.s]

one time in the forest (we used to live in the forest on a gold mine) when my brother was young he accidentally used poison ivy. had the worst rash on his ass for so long. he never made that mistake again.

[choneofakind]

Originally Posted by Alex

Toilet paper. One use case that neither WD-40 or duct tape can reliably tackle.

Ohhh, I'm sure we could use duct tape. It just might not be pretty

[DaBlue1]

Level two and three could almost be the same level. Twisty riders out east (especially along the Tail of the Dragon) can easily run into areas with no cell service, emergency services and towing and be 100 miles or more away from home or intended destination.

I have a list of things that I keep in my larger tank bag at all times. Level Two and Three

• Key Mechanical Spares & Lubes
Extra fuses, bulbs, spark plugs, a spare key and a *small can spray chain lube. (*depends on length of trip)
• Tire Repair Kit
A tire plug kit preferably one which includes C02 cartridges or pump for tire inflation.
• First Aid Kit
A small pre-assembled kit, which will ensure that key items are not missing. Kits should be based on type of traveling / adventure is being done.
• Flashlight
• Gloves (heavy and light)
• Knife (pocket, hip etc)
• A couple of small microfiber towels for wiping
• Small Bottle of Windex
• Small roll of duct tape
• Ear Plugs
• Memo Pad & Pen

For longer trips I add several other items; Level Three or Four

• Camera
• Cell Phone
• Maps/GPS
• Money
• Extra Batteries
• Spare Fuel Line w/hose clamp
• Bungee cords or 12ft of nylon rope
• Cable or Disc Lock
• 12 volt outlet
Can be permanent or portable. I made one so that it is portable. I can remove it when not in use and use my battery tender for my battery charger & portable air pump as well.
• Rain Gear (depends on weather)
Larger rain gear is often times in a back pack. Rain Liners are packed and put in the back pocket of my Reflective Vest.
• Pre-moistened Toilet Wipes.

Nice to have items I also carry; Level Four
• Spare Clutch Cable
• Replacement Levers
• Lightweight Bike Cover
A nicely secured light weight cover can reduce exposure to the elements (dust, sun, rain, frost, snow, dew, blowing debris, etc)

[Jiggles]

@DaBlue1 Yea that's true but I wanted to differentiate based on mileage and storage. For example I'll be able to fit more in my N1k's top case than in my backpack on the 250. And if you are 100 mi away you could consider yourself Tourer for a kit

[lgk]

Originally Posted by Jiggles

explanation for these three? Why a smartphone?

the smart phone is a multi function tool
it helps me check error codes in my EFI system, provides gps/directions if i get lost, takes pictures, stores tons of info(service manual, contact info, etc.). go on ninjette to post my crash thread while waiting for the wrecker.

5 dollar bill, its the only cash i leave in the bike in case i run out of gas and somehow lose my wallet. it'll buy enough gas to get home. if my seat flys off, and i lose it, its not too big a deal.

small roll of duct tape, for quick repairs of fairing damage, and slowing radiator hose leaks, punctured fuel tank, etc. was doing some research and found the ADVrider guys highly recommend to always carry duct tape.

[NevadaWolf]

: wanders off to the store :

Thanks for the shopping list!

[Jiggles]

Originally Posted by NevadaWolf

: wanders off to the store :

Thanks for the shopping list!

Wait its not done yet!

[GearMonkey]

Great list! Easy way to store a little bit of duct tape, wrap it around a golf pencil.

[Jiggles]

Originally Posted by GearMonkey

Great list! Easy way to store a little bit of duct tape, wrap it around a golf pencil.

Good idea! I was wondering how to get a small amount into a confined space like the undertail trunk

[GearMonkey]

I also keep one of those mini magnetic tire pressure gauges in the "trunk". ~$2 at any auto place. It's a pretty strong magnet, never moves.

[Jiggles]

Originally Posted by GearMonkey

I also keep one of those mini magnetic tire pressure gauges in the "trunk". ~$2 at any auto place. It's a pretty strong magnet, never moves.

I didn't add it at first because I figured, you're only going to check your tire pressure if you can also fill it up but hey they are small and its a nice to have item thats more accurate than the ones on a tire pump at a gas station

[r6boater]

I took the accident scene management course a couple years ago. I highly recommend taking it.

Here are the packs they recommend carrying...

http://accidentscene.org/sos/packs.htm

[rojoracing53]

Level 4:
When I going mutiday bike camping I take some of my ultralight backpacking gear.
Stove: http://shop.jetboil.com/index.php/sol-cooking-ti.html
Tent: any solo tent will work example http://m.rei.com/mt/www.rei.com/prod...passage-1-tent
Sleeping bag with compression sack to reduce size to a foot ball: example http://m.rei.com/mt/www.rei.com/prod...d-sleeping-bag
Stool: Nice to have but not nesisary http://m.rei.com/mt/www.rei.com/prod...ei-trail-stool
Camping spork & some dehydrated food.
Water filter or purifier tablets

Level 2: small bottle of cleaner and a rag for you helmet visor.

On the dirt bikes we always carry a tow rope just in case. I've had to tow and be towed as much as 10 miles out in the middle of god knows where. Has anyone ever heard of a rider towing another rider before?

[rojoracing53]

What level do you need to carry a wheel lock and what level do you carry a look and 6' cable.

I always have a wheel lock with me and if I'm doing anything but my daily commute I pack the 6' cable so I can lock the bike to something else.

[antiant]

Nice thread!

Link to original page on YouTube.

Link to original page on YouTube.

All levels:
1. Altoid EDC (Every Day Carry) Tookit, where you can put some of the things listed in one central location. You can get really creative with it too, as far as what you put in there. Put a few rubber bands around it, to keep it secure and to keep other things organized. Also, a few ziploc bags.
2. Compass
3. Small sewing kit
4. Paracord/Paracord Bracelet

Gender specific for women (should be obvious, but you never know):
1. Maxipad/Tampons
2. Feminine Wipes
3. Self-Defense Tools (For those solo trips, or general protection)
a.) Pepper Spray
b.) Knife
c.) Whatever you deem necessary

[DaBlue1]

Originally Posted by GearMonkey

Great list! Easy way to store a little bit of duct tape, wrap it around a golf pencil.

Originally Posted by Jiggles

Good idea! I was wondering how to get a small amount into a confined space like the undertail trunk

1" x 30 ft Roll of Gorilla Tape fits everywhere. (tank bag, under rear seat, velcro strapped to the fairing stay & pockets )

[DaBlue1]

Originally Posted by rojoracing53

....What level do you need to carry a wheel lock and what level do you carry a look and 6' cable.

It all depends what area of town or part of the country you are in and the security level where you are. I would say it could apply to all levels as an optional item.

[DaBlue1]

Originally Posted by rojoracing53

....Has anyone ever heard of a rider towing another rider before?

Yeap!

[choneofakind]

Well that's it, I'm putting a $10 bill in the baggie with my registration/insurance, and I'm gathering some supplies to go in an Altoids tin. I think I can spare some space for that.

[CynicalC]

Originally Posted by Alex

Toilet paper. One use case that neither WD-40 or duct tape can reliably tackle.

[Redgeneral]

Originally Posted by Jiggles

I didn't add it at first because I figured, you're only going to check your tire pressure if you can also fill it up but hey they are small and its a nice to have item thats more accurate than the ones on a tire pump at a gas station

It's actually great to have. My standard riding partner is my Dad who rides a 97 Goldwing 1800, which actually has an air compressor built right into it. Plus I use him and his bike as my mule, with all the storage space he has I've never had a problem bringing tools, lunch, emergency supplies etc.

I cannot stress the important of zip ties though. The best example I have is I lost the bolt that connects the shift rod to the bike after installing a set of Bohemian rearsets (and forgetting to double check all my bolts) and was able to zip tie it and limp home.

If I'm not riding with him, I'm usually just putting around town and not usually more than 25km away from civilisation.

[Motofool]

Originally Posted by Jiggles

@DaBlue1 Yea that's true but I wanted to differentiate based on mileage and storage. For example I'll be able to fit more in my N1k's top case than in my backpack on the 250. And if you are 100 mi away you could consider yourself Tourer for a kit

DaBlue's list is the most complete so far.

There are things that can fail and stop any bike a few miles from home, that still require basic tools and spares, such as headlight bulbs, tire plugs and fuses.

Rain gear, ID-blood group-medication card (to help rescue crews), flashlight and clean rags (for anything from stopping profuse bleeding to toilet use) are everyday's must-have.

For long trips I also carry a map, fuel hose and a roll of safety wire.

[alex.s]

Originally Posted by DaBlue1

Yeap!

good ol' skippy. that guy can be counted on to do everything nobody else has ever thought of.

i especially like his sprocket driven blender he attaches to the bike to make smoothies on the go.

[alex.s]

also i think hernan's suggestion of >GAS SAFE TUBING< is a fantastic one. there have been many times i wish i had some gas safe tube

[Mocha Man]

That or WD-40

[xSean13]

Add handgun and concealed carry permit to all of the lists.

[allanoue]

Originally Posted by alex.s

good ol' skippii. that guy can be counted on to do everything nobody else has ever thought of.

FTFY He seams to take offence to being called Skippy

[alex.s]

Is that why skippii is his user name? I

[Jiggles]

I want some more stuff in here! What are some items that you bring with you? Even if they aren't a necessity, just something you find useful for what you do

[choneofakind]

I always have a couple extra ziplock bags under my seat. I've ruined a brand new iPod from it getting wet. I figure the plastic bags should help that.

[dfox]

I always carry 550 paracord. I'd suggest it for level 2 and above.

if you're resourceful, it can be used for just about anything, including towing, or pulling a fellow rider's bike out of a ditch, making a sling for an injured rider, tying fairings back on the bike, etc. It has a 550 lb tested capacity. Want to lift something that weighs 1000 lbs, just double it, and you've got 1100 lb capacity. I have a home made belt that holds 100 ft of paracord. I made it for hiking and backcountry snowboarding, but it would be very useful in the event of a remote motorcycle crash too. Bright orange with reflective strips for visibility. Even just a paracord bracelet kept under the tail would be useful, they typically hold up to 20 feet depending on the knot you use. Just make sure it's quick deploying, the last thing you want is to need to sit there for 20 minutes as you un-do a cobra knot.

[lgk]

Originally Posted by choneofakind

I always have a couple extra ziplock bags under my seat. I've ruined a brand new iPod from it getting wet. I figure the plastic bags should help that.

i use loksaks for my pouches.
they can be used with touchscreens, and are twice as thick.

[Jiggles]