Adhere to the Recommended Maintenance Schedules
When engineers designed your ride, they know the lifespan of each of the critical components of your motorcycle. From the engine right down to the tiniest bolt, manufacturers know the effects of time on these components. That is why they made the owner’s manual. In this manual is a schedule of maintenance checks that all owners of the motor bike have to adhere to. Read these maintenance checks and schedules and stick to them. Also included are service procedures so you can initiate simple fixes on your own.
Observe the Correct Way of Braking-In Your Motorcycle
The key to ensuring a long-lasting motorcycle is getting it right the first time. When a motorcycle rolls out of the factory, engineers would have already performed a series of tests. However, nothing can prepare the motor bike for real world situations. That is why manufacturers always have specific guidelines as to how individuals need to break in their new motorcycle. For instance, some brands require the motorcycle not to exceed speeds of 30 MPH for the first 300 miles or so. After this “period”, they may suggest breaking in the motorbike for about 50 MPH for the next 1,000 or so miles. The point is, you need to give your new motorcycle time to adjust. Heed this and you’ll have your ride for a lifetime.
Change Oil as Scheduled
If you read in the manual to have an oil change every certain number of miles or months, then follow it. A well-functioning engine relies on adequate lubrication. Unfortunately, over time, deposits can accumulate and undermine the function of the engine oil. Instead of helping, the oil can cause engine problems. As such, it is important to adhere to the oil change schedule of your motorcycle manufacturer. Having said that, you should always use motor oil that your motorcycle manufacturer recommends.
Always Clean the Air Filter
The efficiency of your motorcycle engine depends on the right mixture of air and fuel. But if your air filter gets clogged, then it would be impossible to obtain the right mixture. Hence, it is important to clean your air filter on a regular basis. The owner’s manual will have a recommendation as to when you need to replace it. However, it is often wise to clean the air filter after taking your bike to dirty or dusty environments.
Maintain the Correct Tire Pressure
Running your motorbike with the wrong tire pressure is not only unsafe. If it is under-inflated, the engine will have to work harder. This can lead to reduced fuel economy. Over time, the increased workload on the engine can lead to permanent damage and contribute to a shorter lifespan for your motorbike. Over-inflated tires can cause premature tread wear while also affecting traction. This can lead to safety issues on the road.
Lubricate Your Bearings and Other Mechanical Components
Every moving component in your motorcycle needs adequate lubrication to prevent friction. This, in turn, helps eliminate the chances of overheating which can cause these mechanical parts to fail. From suspension linkages to steering head bearings, it’s essential to lubricate them. While you will replace them sooner or later, you will have a much better chance of prolonging their lifespan if you stay religious in the lubrication aspect.
Maintain the Integrity of Your Drivetrain
The transmission and engine are critical components of any vehicle. For motorcycles, there’s also the drivetrain that requires routine checks. Watch out for sprocket wear, chain tension, and belt cracking. It is also necessary to keep an eye on the amount and condition of oil in the motorcycle’s shaft housing. One has to understand that the chain drive systems of motorcycles are often the most intensive when it comes to maintenance. However, if you happen to have a sealed chain, then maintenance should be easy.
Protect the Battery
The battery is one of the most often neglected components in any modern vehicle, be it a car or a motorcycle. It’s imperative to realize that a brand-new battery starts losing its charge the instant you begin using it. As such, one has to employ sensible battery maintenance checks. Having your charging system checked also helps. Using a trickle charger should help if you plan on not using your motorcycle for a long time.
Adhere to a Pre-Ride Checklist
There will always be problems that occur during the period when you’re not using your motorcycle. These issues can only manifest the moment you start your engine. It is, thus, important that you perform a pre-ride check similar to what pilots do before they take off. So, always check the levels and quality of your transmission and motor oil. Also check the air pressure of the tires. Check the electrical controls and switches, too, before you roll out.
Always Ride Your Motorcycle the Correct Way
One of the best ways you can prolong the lifespan of your motorcycle is by using it in the correct way. That means no hard and sudden accelerations and braking. Going over the speed limits also taxes your engine, which can lead to overheating and irreversible damage. You are not in MotoGP so don’t act like a motorcycle racer.
Making sure your motorcycle lasts for as long as possible is easy. All you need are these tips and a conscious effort to take good care of your two-wheeled ride.
Originally posted 2023-11-21 21:19:16.