10 Tips for How to Properly Maintain your Motorcycle

Warm weather means it’s time to break out those motorcycles or even purchase one for the first time. As with any vehicle, motorcycles will require some regular maintenance and special care. Check out the 10 tips below to help keep your bike running smoothly for years to come!

Check the Manual

While many things are the same, all motorcycles vary in one way or another. Brush up on your bike’s manual to ensure proper maintenance.

Change the Oil

Just like cars and trucks, motorcycles require oil changes at regular intervals. You’ll be able to find details on the right time to change your oil in the bike’s manual.

Clean the Air Filter

An air filter keeps dust, dirt, and other debris from entering your bike’s engine. Imagine all of the stuff that can build up in there over time. For that reason, it’s important to regularly clean or even replace your air filter. A clogged filter can restrict airflow to your engine’s cylinders.

Air Up the Tires

Not too much and not too little; there’s a correct balance for the air pressure in your tires. Driving without that balance can be dangerous for both you and the bike. Maintain this ideal pressure by monitoring it with a gauge at least once a week – or even every time you ride (depending on how often that is).

Watch the Chain

Proper chain tension and lubrication are critical. A chain that is too tight will cause premature wear. Likewise, a loose chain can cause your motorcycle to drive badly and even breakdown.

Monitor the Battery

Make your battery last as long as possible by keeping it charged while the bike is not in use. We recommend using a trickle charger for this.

Tighten the Hardware

The vibrations caused by riding your bike can result in a loosening of various nuts, bolts, and pins. Remind yourself to frequently check these elements and tighten anything that appears loose.

Ride it Well

This should be no surprise. The way you treat your bike will determine how well it performs and how long it lasts. Ride it like you intend to keep it forever.

Keep it Clean

Aside from making it look nice, cleaning your bike will give you the chance to view every aspect of it. You may find various blemishes or parts that need to be replaced.

Store it Away

When you’re not riding your motorcycle, be sure to keep it stored in a safe place, away from the environment and any possible harm. Again, the better you protect your bike, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy it.

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