It is not a hidden fact that some people dream of buying their first motorcycle from a very young age. However, once they get it, they spend a lot of money on it. If you are one of those who adore their bike, you would need the tips below to maintain it to save a lot of unforeseen expenses. These tips will help you lower running costs and have a significantly longer vehicle life.
#1 Keep a check on the engine oil:
The engine oil is undoubtedly like the blood of your motorcycle parts. It makes sure the engine is well lubricated while also leaving a cooling effect on the entire vehicle. However, if one does not keep a check, the engine’s oil level can decrease, and the impurities can make it dense and thick. It can harm your engine as it might even seize the bike’s pistons. The easiest way to avoid this is to check for oil levels after every service.
#2 Clean the surface regularly:
Even though this is one thing most people already do, we must highlight this. Cleaning your bike’s surface can do a lot. It helps you maintain the surface finish. But, in case you plan to use water for cleaning, cover the H.T. Coil, silencer, and ignition switch with plastic sheets. Also, make sure to clean the motorcycle number plate since it gives an identity to your vehicle. Avoid parking your bike in the direct sunlight and look for shades.
#3 Maintain battery and brakes:
The bike’s battery is the most important part and requires frequent maintenance to ensure a trouble-free ride. Sometimes, topping up the battery with distilled water might be a good idea too. Keep checking the battery for any leakage too. Brakes, too, are vital as failed or dysfunctional brakes can harm your life as well. So, you have to make sure that the brakes always hold the tire with proper space. Also, make sure you tighten the brakes as per your riding styles and preferences and do not go by any tightening standards in this case.
#4 Make sure the chain is clean.
Although most chains these days are O-ring chains and do not require frequent cleaning, it is still advisable to clean them when you find them particularly dirty or at least at the mileage your bike’s manual recommends. Elevate the rear wheel and keep the motorcycle neutral for easy chain movement and better cleaning. You can use a bristle brush to remove the grime and grit from the chain. Similarly, rotate the back as you apply the chain lube to lubricate your chain for smooth functioning.
#5 Maintain your engine on a timely basis
The engine acts like the heart of a motorcycle. If you keep your engine tuned regularly, you will have reduced running costs over time and better mileage. Just make sure you keep the gaps of the spark plug correct and that your carburetor is cleaned every once in a while. Cleaning the carburetor after every 1500 kilometers you ride might be enough. For the spark plug, you might need to look at it after every 750 km for the two-stroke bikes and every 1500 km for the four-stroke bikes. Such minor efforts will help you take good care of your vehicle, and it will reward you with smooth functioning as well.
#6 Make sure the tires work correctly.
Tire maintenance is not something one can overlook and avoid for a long time since the rider’s life depends on it. Especially before you head on to a significant journey, you should always ensure your tires are not worn out. Also, look for other damages like holes, cracks, or tears to ensure the tread depth and pressure are maintained within the recommended levels. You must also note that the environmental conditions also affect the condition of tires and can even lead them to rot in exceptional climatic conditions. Worn tires should not be used for any longer than needed, and you must get them changed as soon as possible.
#7 Replace the coolant within the suggested time:
Any motorcycle’s engine relies on a coolant that manages the temperature for the machine for it to work smoothly. As per the recommended standards, the coolant needs to be changed at least once every two years. Especially for somebody whose bike is subject to extended and frequent mileage, he might need to change it even quicker. Why? Simply because, like other vehicle fluids, the engine coolant is used up to an accelerated pace. Moreover, it would be best if you remembered to use the radiator hose to eliminate unwanted air after topping up or replacing your coolant. It is always advisable to use the coolant that is recommended in your bike’s manual.
#8 Clean your air filters:
As per the traditional motorcycle maintenance standards, one needs to clean the bike’s air filters after every 10,000 kms that they ride. Air filters are essential for your bike since they protect other delicate internal components of the engine from particles that can damage it. If you are somebody who rides a lot, you may even need to clean out your air filters every week.
#9 Look after the fork oil too:
For those who want to enjoy a much smoother bike ride, it is essential to have enough fresh fork oil. Fork oil’s role is to smooth out the roughness and bumps on the road beneath the bike. The more somebody rides, the better they understand the importance of fork oil. Fork oil does not just have a single role mentioned above and lubricates the bike’s working and moving parts outside the engine. Although one can handle changing the fork oil themselves, it is still advisable to see a mechanic if you do not have the right tools.
Summary
Your love for your motorcycle is best represented by how you maintain it. Putting on fancy accessories might make it look attractive, but it is the best feeling when you can ride your bike smoothly. Following the tips above might help you a lot in smooth functioning, and you might use the same bike for years.
