So, you bought yourself a motorcycle, you're on top of the world! We hate to burst your bubble but we have to let you know that riding a motorcycle isn't just about looking cool on the road. It's about keeping your ride running smoothly, and that means you need to understand the basics of motorcycle maintenance. Don't worry; we won't bore you with technical jargon. We're here to teach you everything you need to know about motorcycle maintenance in a way that even a dummy can understand.
- Keep Your Bike Clean
First things first, you need to keep your bike clean. No, we're not talking about giving it a quick rinse every once in a while. We mean a proper clean-up, from the wheels to the exhaust pipes. Dirt and grime can wear down your bike's parts over time, and nobody wants that. So, grab a bucket of water, some soap, and a few rags, and give your bike the TLC it deserves.
- Check Your Oil
If you want to keep your motorcycle running smoothly, you need to check your oil regularly. The oil lubricates your bike's moving parts, and if it runs out, it can cause serious damage to your engine. So, check your oil levels every time you fill up your petrol tank, and top it up if needed.
- Keep Your Tyres Inflated
One of the most critical parts of your motorcycle is its tyres. Riding on underinflated tyres can be dangerous, and it can also cause your tyres to wear out faster. So, make sure you check your tyre pressure regularly and keep your tyres inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
- Change Your Oil Regularly
Oil isn't meant to last forever, and if you want to keep your bike running smoothly, you need to change it regularly. The general rule of thumb is to change your oil every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.
- Keep Your Chain Lubricated
Your motorcycle's chain is the link between your engine and the rear wheel, and if it's not properly lubricated, it can cause serious problems. Make sure you keep your chain clean and lubricated with a good quality chain lubricant.
- Check Your Brake Pads
Brakes are an essential part of your motorcycle, and if they fail, it can have catastrophic consequences. So, make sure you check your brake pads regularly and replace them if they're worn out.
- Keep Your Battery Charged
Your motorcycle's battery is what powers your bike's electrical system, and if it's not charged, your bike won't start. So, make sure you keep your battery charged, especially during the off-season.
- Check Your Spark Plugs
Your spark plugs are what ignite the fuel in your engine, and if they're not working correctly, your bike won't run smoothly. Check your spark plugs regularly and replace them if they're worn out.
- Keep Your Coolant Topped Up
Your motorcycle's coolant helps regulate the temperature of your engine, and if it runs out, your engine can overheat. So, make sure you check your coolant levels regularly and top them up if needed.
- Take It To A Professional
Finally, if you're not confident in your motorcycle maintenance skills, take it to a professional. A mechanic can give your bike a thorough check-up and fix any issues.