Tips to Make Your Motorcycle Last Forever
If you want your motorcycle to continue performing and shining like it did when it was new, you’ll need to maintain it regularly. Don’t worry if you are unsure where to begin. We know a thing or two about bike maintenance, and we have created this guide to help you get started.
Examine the Brakes Keep your bike’s braking system in good working order by checking the brake fluid reservoirs and maintaining the fluid level as needed. Use good-quality brake fluid to refill, and remember to bleed the air out of the system properly. Also, check the brake pads to see if they are smooth; replace any worn down or corroded pads as soon as possible.
Inspect Tires Your motorcycle’s tires help maintain good traction on the road surface, which is key to your riding experience and your safety on the road. That’s why you’ll want to ensure that there are no balding treads, cracks in the sidewalls, or any other issues that might force you to get your tires repaired or replaced. Use a tire-pressure gauge to check the air pressure of your tires regularly and fill them up according to your manufacturer’s recommendations.
Fuel Up To add life to your bike and let it offer you the best mileage, you must use good-quality fuel in your motorcycle. Try to choose high-octane fuels that contain little to no ethanol, as this substance can become corrosive if left in your tank for too long. Also, make sure that you fill up your tank before undertaking a long ride. While you’re at it, check your fuel filter every month or so to see that it’s still clean enough to purify your fuel. If you hear unusual sounds or notice that your engine is struggling to start, it can mean that it is time to change your filter.
Change Oil You'll want to check your motorcycle oil in the same way you do your car. Put your dipstick in, take it out and wipe it, and reinsert it and then remove it again to inspect the color and consistency of your oil. If it has become sludgy or dark brown, it's likely time to replace the oil and oil filter. However, if you spot any metallic shavings or powder, it can be an indicator of a bigger problem. Let a professional technician handle the issue and service your motorcycle. On the other hand, if the oil level gets low, top it off, and you should be ready to hit the road in no time.
Lubricate the Parts Depending on your model, you may need to lubricate various parts in your bike, including the steering-head bearings, swingarm, and wheel bearings. You may also want to grease the different controls and cables to ensure all critical components are well-greased and functional. Don’t forget to check your bike’s fork oil and replace it every few years.
So, there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to keeping your motorcycle in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance is key to ensuring that your bike runs smoothly and safely. Remember to inspect the brakes, tires, fuel, oil, and lubricate the parts, as we have discussed. These simple steps will go a long way in helping you avoid costly repairs and keep your motorcycle looking and performing like new.