Most people tighten small bolts way too tight. Sometimes it strips, sometimes it breaks the bolt. Small bolts that go into aluminum threads are the worse. A good torque wrench will do two things, it will protect the bolt and it will teach your hand what each torque setting feels like.
For motorcycles, I like using "T" handle wrenches on almost everything since very few bolts need more tightening than you can get with a "T" handle. Plus, they are fast!

One tip:
When drilling or tapping aluminum, WD-40 is the best lubricant I have ever found. It is better than cutting oil (For Aluminum). Cutting oil is better for cast and steel.