Today’s motorcycles are the peak of contemporary engineering. They serve as more than just a means of transportation for riders; being a traveling buddy, assisting in navigating anything from urban jungles to mountainous landscapes. That is not always the case, though. If you consider yourself a motorcycle enthusiast, you have probably had the impulse to learn motorcycle maintenance practices on your own. The biggest advantage is that you have control over how your bike operates. However, sometimes it also results in time and financial savings.
Anyone who rides a motorcycle is aware that maintaining your motorcycle is just as crucial to your safety as maintaining yourself. And while working on your bike in the garage (or having someone else do it for you) might not sound like the most fun you could have on two wheels, the long-term savings will make it well worth the expense.
Thus, practicing motorcycle maintenance will ensure that you may continue to enjoy it for many years to come. A motorcycle that is in excellent condition is also a safer one for you. Listed below are some motorcycle maintenance tips that can help you keep your motorcycle in good condition in the long run; for a safer adventure on the road. Continue reading to learn more.
Tires and Wheels
Maintaining proper tire condition is an essential component of motorcycle maintenance, and is arguably one of the most crucial components of your bike in terms of safety. It is recommended that motorcycle tires, regardless of appearance or condition, should be replaced every five years. And while age is important for determining tire safety, it is unquestionably not the only element to take into account.
Inspecting tires for problems including “dry rot,” cracks, bulges, and wear bar indicator depth is also recommended. Replace your valve stems or inner tubes whenever you replace a tire, and then balance the tire once more. Never combine tire types, per manufacturer instructions, as performance function and capacities differ between compounds and designs.
Additionally, you should inspect your motorcycle wheels on a regular basis to make sure there are no rim cracks or dents, probable spoke missing (depending on the bike model), bearing problems, or seal concerns. Furthermore, the air pressure should also be checked for any wear and tear. Maintain the proper air pressure at all times for safe driving and to prevent blowouts. They will endure longer if proper pressure is applied.
Oil and Filter
Depending on the make and model of your motorcycle, replacing the oil and filter may only need a few straightforward steps or may require the removal of significant parts. It is generally advised to change your oil at least once a year. You will need to change your bike more frequently if you ride it a lot. The quality of your oil will also degrade more quickly if you travel in unclean or dusty places, necessitating more frequent oil changes.
Every motorbike also has a few basic oil maintenance requirements in common. Mineral-based motorcycle oils should be replaced every 2,000 miles, semi-synthetic motorcycle oils every 5,000 miles, and fully synthetic motorcycle oils every 7–10,000 miles. And while the bike is upright, remove the drain plug to pour the old oil into a pan after running it for three to five minutes. Reference your user manual for drain plug location. Utilizing a funnel, add fresh oil in accordance with the instructions in your user handbook after replacing your oil filter and drain cap.
Before you get on the road, make sure your oil is at the highest or maximum level. Add more if it’s too low.
Air Filter
The efficiency and output of your bike’s engine can be directly impacted by a dirty air filter. For road bikes, most manuals recommend replacing the air filter every 5,000 miles, and it should be entirely free of debris and dirt.
Consequently, you ought to clean your air filter frequently. The use of compressed air is possible here. Your bike will have more power if you clean the filter because a filthy one will make your engine work harder. If cleaning your filter is difficult, you can alternatively replace it.
Brakes
The state of the brake system on your motorcycle should be checked and maintained, which is a relatively easy process that can certainly be a lifesaving practice. Throughout the season, check your motorbike brake pads for adequate thickness using wear indicators. Motorcycle brakes can last thousands to tens of thousands of miles, depending on the type and way they are used.
To make sure the system is free of obvious leaks or cracks, brake lines and system bolts should also be checked. Rubber brake lines are more prone to wear and degradation than steel lines. Hence, some manufacturers advise replacing them every four years.
Before each ride, test your brakes to make sure they are in good operating condition. This calls for examining the brake fluid level as well. According to the instructions in your manual, brake fluid needs to be updated every one to two years to keep your brakes operating at their best. Additionally, examine the brake pads’ thickness. It is advised that they be replaced before they are completely worn out.
Battery
One of the simpler maintenance components, both to take care of and to ignore, particularly if you live in a colder climate. The majority of batteries have a lifespan of two to five years if they are kept on a maintenance charger and away from harsh environments.
Pay attention to your headlight brightness and ease of engine turnover if you do not have access to a meter. The battery terminals should be cleaned and covered in dielectric grease. Check your fuse box and spares; the average fuse life varies, and you do not want to be caught without one.
Additionally, keep your battery fully charged while not in use to increase its lifespan. This is achievable using a trickle charger. Make sure the battery’s top is spotless. Make sure the electrolyte level is not too low by checking it. Add deionized or distilled water if it is low.
Key Takeaway
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This saying could not be more accurate when it comes to motorcycle maintenance. Regular maintenance performed in accordance with manufacturer recommendations will help keep you upright and have fun while driving. To stay on track, many riders keep a journal and calendar of their maintenance regimen.
