Maintenance is as critical for a motorbike as it is for a car. If you need a smooth ride and an extended lifespan, identify essential elements of motorbike care. It will help you save on expensive repairs, increasing the second-hand value of your bike.
Since the maintenance tasks can be challenging as they vary depending on a bike, read the manual that includes a chart listing the functions and describing what you need to do. Besides, you can use some tips to keep your bike in top condition to ensure your safety on the road.
Here are some tips on maintaining your motorcycle
Check Your Tires Regularly
It is critical to check your bike tires regularly. Ensure you maintain tire pressures at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If they are overinflated, you have less contact and grip with the road. With less air, they are less stable, making handling tricky. Also, inspect possible scrapes and cuts that can lead to undesirable blowouts. Also, check the treads, wheel alignment, and balancing at least once a week.
Check Engine Oil
Engine oil has a vital role in the maintenance and smooth operation of a bike. Regularly read and maintain the correct level. Examine possible leakages since due to carbon deposits, oil can thicken, dragging your engine movement. Running your bike on dirty oil increases fuel consumption, drastically reducing the engine’s lifespan. Besides, ensure your brake pads are healthy. Change them when below 2mm in thickness.
Change the Coolant
The coolant prevents your engine from freezing or overheating. To change it, remove the bodywork to access the drain box and replace the drain pan below the engine. To ensure you drain everything:
Take out the radiator cap and return the drain box when you complete the process.
When refilling the system with a coolant, use a funnel to avoid spills.
After filling, start the bike and give it time to warm up before cutting ignition.
Keep the Chain Clean
Nowadays, most chains are Oring chains that need less cleaning. It is best to clean when you reach the mileage your manual recommends or when it gets dirty. Elevate the bike rear wheel as you clean, ensuring your transmission is neutral for easy chain motion. When lubricating, rotate the rear wheel to apply the formulated chain lube. Ensure you evenly coat your chain as the lube penetrates past the Orings to the joint.