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First long trip

This depends on your mechanical aptitude and space for stuff. Along with a quart of oil, I would recommend the following:

  • Prayer (Use daily)
  • First Aid kit that is properly stocked
  • Multi bit screwdriver with a T-30 bit as well as flat and phillips bits
  • Plyers (Regular slip and needle nose)
  • Wrenches (metric)
  • Socket set with ratchet (metric)
  • Duct tape
  • Electrical tape
  • Electrical wire
  • Wire cutters
  • Service manual
  • Spare key
  • Enough cash to get you home

If you've used any other tools during routine maintenance, consider bring those tools.

Enjoy your trip!
 
What essentials do you guys carry on long trips oil etc.etc.

Speaking for myself and having a trailer. Items taken on longer trips are the same I would normally use when doing maintenance at home. That includes stuff like first aid kit, flashlights, WD 40, silicone spray, scissor jack, & torque wrenches. Just to name a few.
 
I always pack light.

:ani29:: Enough undies for a clean set each day.

:ani29:: Other clothes, one to show, and one to go.

:ani29:: Riding gear that will cover all the expected weather situations I may encounter.

:ani29:: Not mechanical, so I leave that to the on board tool kit, a set of torx, and some extra oil.

:ani29:: Anything I did not bring or forget--I buy as needed.

:ani29:: Some cash, and of course the good old credit card.
 
As far as essentials for me...

Cell phone
Credit card(s)
Cash tucked away in a safe place
Medications (& a cooler for ice if you carry insulin, as well as insulation to keep the insulin from freezing)
Spare key tucked away where you can access it
BEST card if you have BEST coverage, road service card otherwise
First aid kit
GPS or maps
Stop-N-Go or other tire repair kit
Small compressor
Raingear
Tools to match your skills and confidence level
Spares to match your comfort level
Shop manual on cell phone/iPod if you are prepared to try roadside repairs
List of Spyder dealers along your route
Oil
Funnel
Gorilla Tape
Zip ties
Soft ties for towing
Microsoft towels
Shop rags
Hand cleaner
Spare gas if station spacing will be a problem
Cargo straps
Protective riding gear
Water
Energy bar or other emergency snack
Survival blanket
Waterproof matches
Spot sattelite locator device - optional

Obviously some of these are for long distances, and others for even short trips. some are for the wilderness and others apply everywhere. I'm sure I carry more stuff than I need, but it eases my mind. I have known people who rode cross country with only the shirt on their backs.
 
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Add baby wipes to the list...small pack. They are great for windshield bug removal and to clean bird poop off the seat.
 
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