Motorcycle Maintenance Checklist - 7 Most Important Checks
A good motorcycle maintenance routine allows your bike to stay on the road for as long as possible. Motorcycle maintenance can save you from avoidable breakdowns and repair costs when done regularly.
This is why it requires more than just your instinct to carry out good maintenance on your motorcycle. Learning a few motorcycle maintenance tips can go a long way in helping you extend the life of your motorcycle.
The importance of motorcycle maintenance cannot be understated because you want your motorcycle in good shape while riding. For your safety and a smooth ride, you'll need to understand the basics of motorcycle maintenance.
Key Takeaway
Understanding motorcycle maintenance goes a long way in keeping your bike in good shape over a long time. Basic things like checking the brakes, changing the oil, and changing the coolant help prevent possible issues.
Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
Motorcycle Maintenance should never be overlooked. Creating a motorcycle maintenance checklist will ensure your bike is safe even before you take it out of the garage.
A good motorcycle maintenance plan ensures a thorough inspection of your bike to catch anything that's out of place. A proper check will make sure all your parts are in good & working condition.
In order to keep your motorcycle in the best possible condition for riding, you'll need to understand what regular & seasonal maintenance should be done on a motorcycle.
Below are some basic motorcycle maintenance tips that you must have on your motorcycle maintenance checklist:
1. Check Oil & Routine Oil Changes
How frequently you change your motorcycle oil depends on the kind of oil it uses and the age. An engine in proper condition can go a long time before needing an oil change. It's good practice to check the oil regularly.
For instance, you can check it every week or before every ride. Checking it every week is suitable for motorcyclists who ride their bikes often. If you're the type that rides occasionally, it's recommended to check before every ride.
Check the owner’s manual to determine how to gauge the oil level. The oil’s color is also a good indicator of when the oil needs to be changed. Darker color means older oil that needs changing.
2. Clean Air Filter
Notice an accumulation of excessive dirt in your filter? Then it’s time to replace it or at least give it a rinse.
The whole goal of an air filter, is to "filter the air" of debris, dirt, etc. to avoid it from entering the engine. If you're air filter is caked up from dirt, then it's choking the engine from air intake causing a massive decline in engine performance.
Thankfully air filters were engineered to be located in easy to reach locations, so changing them is a breeze! Simply, remove the gas tank and reach for the airbox where the filter is. Remove the older one and replace it with a new one.
3. Tires, Tread, & Air Pressure
Inspect the front and back tires for any leaks. You can conduct a visual inspection to check for any wear and tear of the tires. Remove any foreign materials like nails that might have found their way into the tires.
If you notice any air leaks after that, then your tire might need a replacement. Check the tread to know if it’s in good condition. If the tire has not become bald, then it means your tread is still in good shape.
Check the tire pressure with a pressure gauge. You will find the correct gauge for your motorcycle tire in the owner’s manual. Inflate the tires if it falls short of the recommended measurement.
4. Check Your Brakes
Probably one of the most important features on your bike is the brakes, they'll do that whole stopping thing before you crash into something. In order to make sure you keep stopping on a dime & in time, you'll need to properly maintain your brakes.
It's good to test your brakes before each ride regularly. This is to ensure they are in good working condition. Checking the brake fluid level is a seasonal motorcycle maintenance practice. It is recommended to change the fluid yearly or biannually.
Keep Brake Pads Fresh
It's important to have fresh brake pads. If you're hearing that high pitched screech every time you break then it's time for new pads. A good rule of thumb, if you have less than 30-20% of brake padding left it's about time for a change.
5. Drive Systems Check
Proper drive chain care is vital for proper motorcycle maintenance. Riding your motorcycle might become very dangerous if you're not checking if it’s in place.
This is why it's good to lubricate your chain after each ride. Do this when the chains are still warm for proper oil penetration. It is safe to replace any damaged or worn part as soon as you notice it.
Check the belt drive regularly for any crack or damage. Also, check your shaft drives and replace the shaft drive fluid if necessary, although it is seasonal motorcycle maintenance.
6. Change the Coolant
Coolant allows the motorcycle's engine to stay at optimal temperatures. It keeps the engine away from overheating in summer or freezing in winter. You need to maintain the coolant regularly for a proper functioning motorcycle.
You can do this by topping it up and keeping it fresh regularly. This routine management can also be seasonal motorcycle maintenance, depending on your weather and location.
7. Care for the Battery
A well-charged battery leads to a smooth ride. Checking your battery regularly for its overall health can extend your battery’s life with proper battery maintenance.
Always keep the top of your battery clean. Add deionized or distilled water when you notice the electrolyte level is low. If you notice your battery is damaged beyond repair, replace it as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Your motorcycle is less likely to break down on the highway once you understand these top motorcycle maintenance tips. Understanding what your motorcycle needs to stay healthy is important as a rider. These tips help you with that!
Having a clear understanding of these needs will guide you in taking proper care of your motorcycle. Checking and changing the engine oil, changing air filters, etc., all fall under regular motorcycle maintenance.
While riding, you have to think of your safety and the life of the person riding with you. Always remember that a healthy motorcycle means a safe ride.