Kaution Korner – April 2013

BRING A “JUST IN CASE” KIT 

 What’s the best use for your saddle bags?  For packing things you never want to be without when on the road 30 minutes from home or 300 miles from nowhere?  Clothes? Food, Beer? Although all of these things are needed when 300 miles from home, you can divide them into two categories:

1. 1.Things you need to access quickly, while riding.
2. 2.Things you will need, but can wait until you’re off the road for the day and settling in for the evening.

For category #2, use your tour pack or waterproof duffel bag, or strap on luggage.   That’s easy… now for the rest:

Let’s look at what you should put in your saddle bags. As you look at what you are packing, saddle bags should be packed with the critical items you’ll need on the road, to get you going again quickly, or to tend to your personal needs when necessary as you ride. You may also want to include your tool kit, your rain gears, gloves and a “just in case” kit. This kit can be assembled into one zippered soft bag and can include any or all of the following:

1. vSwiss style pocketknife or multi tool, 
2. vBike lock, *Tire pressure gage,
3. vX-tra sun glasses,
4. vEnergy food bar,
5. vWater,
6. vFirst aid kit,
7. vDuct tape,
8. vCell phone charger,
9. vUtility light,
10. vEmergency contact numbers
11. vA complete detailed Next of Kin info,
12. vList of medical conditions and medications,
13. vHOG Touring Handbook,
14. vBike Registration, insurance info, etc.,
15. vMotorcycle owner’s manual,
16. vSide stand board,
17. vSunscreen+lip balm,
18. vBathroom tissue,
19. vx-tra credit card and emergency cash ( only if you have locking saddle bags ).
20. vTire repair kit and C02 inflation cartridges.