U-box essentials that every rider must have
For many Filipinos, motorcycles are more than weekend companions; they’re everyday workhorses. These motorcycles carry riders to work, help them earn a living, and power the growing demand for motorcycle taxi, courier, and food delivery services.
Given how essential motorcycles are to daily life, every rider should keep their machine in top shape by following the preventive maintenance schedule outlined in the Owner’s Manual. Still, it pays to be ready for anything. Packing the right tools and essentials can spell the difference between shelling out a fortune for roadside repairs or getting back on the road in minutes.
So, where do you keep all these essentials? Naturally, in your motorcycle or scooter’s U-box. Let’s be honest, most helmets won’t fit there anyway, so why not make the most of the space?
Photo courtesy of Touratech Philippines
Essentials in your U-box
Every rider’s needs may differ depending on their daily grind, but there are a few essentials that should always be in your motorcycle or scooter’s U-box. These are non-negotiables that could save you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle on the road.
While most motorcycles and scooters come with basic tools like a small wrench, screwdriver, and spark plug extractor, these stock kits are often low-quality and can easily break when you need them most, especially during an emergency roadside repair.
That’s why it’s smart to carry your own reliable set from reputable brands. A compact socket set, pliers or long-nose pliers, an adjustable wrench, electrical tape and a small flashlight are must-haves. Also, make sure your adjustable wrench and socket are large enough to fit the nuts or bolts needed to remove your motorcycle or scooter’s tires because when the unexpected happens, good tools can mean the difference between being stranded and getting back on the road.
Affordable tire repair kit
Speaking of tires, most modern scooters now come equipped with tubeless tires, making a tire repair kit or spray sealant an absolute must-have. The good news? These universal repair kits are easy to find and affordable, whether at your local motorcycle shop or through online stores. You may also want to add a portable tire pump—electronic or manual bicycle pump—it’s up to you.
If you’re riding a scooter like me, replacing the drive belt at the recommended maintenance interval is also non-negotiable, but you’ll never really know when it might give out. That’s why it’s always smart to carry a spare drive belt with you. It doesn’t have to be brand-new; even your recently replaced belt that’s pwede pa can be a lifesaver, helping you get home or to the nearest motorcycle shop without the hassle of being stranded.
Photo courtesy of Ride Manila
Other essentials
Living in a tropical country means rain can strike anytime, even on the hottest, sunniest days. That’s why it’s essential to always carry a reliable two-piece rain gear. Skip the one-piece poncho types; they can easily get caught in your motorcycle’s chain or rear wheel, posing a serious safety risk.
Personally, I always keep an extra mobile phone charger cable, a pair of gloves, a balaclava, and a dri-fit shirt in my scooter’s U-box. The dri-fit shirt, which I keep inside a resealable plastic bag in particular, comes in handy when I suddenly need to meet someone or run an errand at the mall. It’s a quick way to freshen up and avoid smelling like exhaust fumes after a long ride.
I also pack a few sachets of wet wipes because, at this point in life, I’d rather be ready for nature’s call than get caught unprepared at a restroom with little to no water.
A pair of tie downs
I also find carrying a pair of tie-downs extremely useful. Let’s be honest, many of us Pinoys have a knack for carrying just about anything on a scooter as long as it can be secured safely, even if it doesn’t fit in the top box. Having tie-downs on hand has saved me countless times, not just in keeping my cargo stable, but also from spending extra on courier fees to transport bulky items.
I also keep a stash of small bills in my scooter’s U-box. You never know when you might forget your wallet or miss a trip to the ATM. With a few bills on hand, you can cover expenses like parking, fuel, or even a quick snack. Just remember to replenish the stash whenever you use it.
All of these items I mentioned fit neatly inside my scooter’s U-box with room to spare. Of course, there are the non-negotiable essentials every rider should have, and then there are the “up-to-you” extras that depend on your daily routine and riding style. How about you? What’s inside your motorcycle’s U-box?
