Minimum for touring?

[ridetheworld]

Hi all,

What is the absolute minimum of mods one should make to his bike before leaving for a long tour? I buying a locally made stock Honda here in Chile for a tour around S.Am. My idea so far is to have a 42 litre top box and my Ortlieb 31lt rack_pack and little else. The big top box would only be half full as the extra space is for jacket, etc when not riding. I've read here that hand guards can be a mixed bag, as are engine guards. But would perhaps a bash plate be considered essential? How about a windscreen? I am on a tight budget but have enough to stretch for a couple of accessories. My ethos is travel light.

Thanks,
Rtw


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