Motorcycle maintenance: the main points to check

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You’ve invested in getting the license and just bought a shiny motorcycle. Now it’s up to you to pamper her. A two-wheeler without routine maintenance will have a limited lifespan. This guide helps you know how to check the main points and do a basic review. These adjustments and controls do not require special tools and are open even to beginners in mechanics. Before each maintenance and repair operation, find out about the necessary spare motorcycle parts.

Motorcycle maintenance: the main points to check

Check the tire pressure and condition

The motorcycle tire is obviously crucial for ride a motorcycle safely. Every 1000 kilometers, or every two weeks on average, take a look at the general condition of the front tire and the rear tire: make sure there is no trace of wear on the sides and on the tread.

This quick check will allow you to detect the presence of a stone or a screw: you will thus avoid a puncture during the journey! Then check the tire pressure which will have a strong influence on road holding, braking efficiency and tire life – an important point considering the price of a new tire. To find out the inflation pressures of your motorcycle, refer to the technical manual. 

The tires of an all-terrain motorcycle are designed to withstand lower pressures than those of road tires. Always remember that an underinflated tire can cause a fall and expose you to personal injury. Remember to check the tightness of the frame bolts, especially on older motorcycles.

Check the chain tension and its lubrication condition

Only a well-tensioned chain will ensure flexibility while driving. A chain that is too tight can wear out very quickly, break or even damage the gearbox: leave about 3 cm of slack between the chain and the swingarm with the rear wheel resting on the ground.

To guarantee the longevity of the chain kit, check voltage every 1000 terminals; even every 500 km for motocross enthusiasts who have intensive use.

At each check, carry out the lubrication the chain (and remember to lubricate it after each ride on wet roads).

If you are riding on a muddy or dusty track, or in sand, clean the chain well before greasing it..

Check the condition of your braking system

These are simple things that can help you avoid an accident. The law requires that the motorcycle or scooter be equipped with two brakes, independently operable. This is part of the compulsory equipment on a motorcycle, just like wearing a motorcycle helmet for example.

A first visual check, using a flashlight and a mirror is sufficient to realize the state of wear of the brake pads. The disc is worn when it has lost 10 to 15% of its original thickness: refer to the wear scale defined by the manufacturer.

The brake caliper, that gets stuck in salt (yesterday), dirt and sand should also be checked. To do this, lift the wheel off the ground and throw it by hand. Give it two good brakes and then relaunch it. If you detect significant friction, the pins or pistons are seized, it will be necessary to clean them..

As to brake fluid, the jar is theoretically sufficient for the life of the platelets. Over time, the liquid changes color as it darkens, loses its properties and can generate corrosion. It should be replaced approximately every year.

Check your air filter

In general, it is changed with each revision. On the other hand, if you are riding an enduro, it is good to take a look from time to time and possibly clean and scrub the air box using a blower and a compressor. In the case of a reusable cotton air filter, you will need a specific K&N cleaning kit.

Other items that can be verified !

Although not supposed to go down, coolant loses its qualities over time, especially if mopeds spend the night outside in the winter. The liquid can freeze, which increases its volume and may possibly crack the cylinder head, which is why it is important to never exceed the recommended level.

To check the level, just look at the mark on the expansion tank. Examine each hose in the circuit for detect a possible leak. It is advisable to check the engine oil level every 1000 km. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes after switching off the ignition while the oil comes back down into the sump.

Think of the motorcycle fork oil change, infrequent (every 10,000 – 15,000 kilometers) but essential for good road holding !

Finally, the state of the motorcycle battery is to watch out for, especially if you make short daily trips: the battery does not have time to be recharged by the alternator. The load control is carried out with a voltmeter, a basic tool that costs around fifteen euros.

If the load is weak, use a motorcycle specific battery charger. If the terminals are oxidized, simply brush them with a wire brush. Take the opportunity to watch the proper functioning of the rear, front and turn signal lights.

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