Keeping your motorcycle in tip-top condition requires care and attention. Treat your bike well and it will reward you for years to come.
Bikebiz.com.au have provided some top tips for motorcycle maintenance to ensure your bike is up to scratch when you hit the road.
Regular checks
Give your motorcycle tyres a check every time you ride. It only takes a minute or two but a simple once-over could save your life.
Take a look over both ends for any damage and run your hand over the surface to feel for any tears, punctures or nails. Press down on the tyres firmly to make sure they’re properly inflated and listen for any punctures.
You should buy new tyres if your old set’s tread depth is less than 2mm, if there’s any cracking or damage, or if they’re more than five years old. The legal minimum tread depth in most Australian states is 1.5mm, so make sure never fall below this level.
Check tyre pressure
Low pressure means unreliable and unpredictable grip. You can sometimes tell when your pressure is low because of a squirmy feel to the bike but often there’s no signs at all. With two less wheels on the road than the average driver, it’s doubly important you inflate your tyres, as any sudden manoeuvres can be very dangerous.
Stick to your owner’s manual for the proper PSI levels and check tyre pressure when you start the bike as it’s still cool. Once they warm up, the pressure changes, making it harder to tell if you’ve got low pressure. Inflators can be easily found online.
Oil
It’s generally recommended that you change your oil a minimum of once per year. If you hit the road a lot on your bike, it’s likely you’ll need to change it more often. Similarly, if you’re using your motorcycle in warm, dusty and dirty places, you’ll need to replace the oil more frequently as it will break down faster.
Drive Chain
To take proper care of your motorcycle, you should lubricate your chain frequently. Always keep an eye on your chain tension as well; this helps ensure your bike isn’t being worn down so it’ll last longer.
Prep for the winter
Firstly, make sure your bike is properly stored inside during the cooler months to ensure the brakes, fuel and electrical systems are not damaged by colder weather. If you plan to ride your bike during this season, consider getting winter tyres. Alternatively, you can invest in the NTEC system, which allows riders to adjust tyre pressure for specific conditions.