The number of people who have purchased motorcycles in the past 10 years has grown by 75 percent. For most people, having a motorcycle is something they dream about. Movies like Easy Rider ushered in the modern fascination with motorcycles.
Before investing in a motorcycle, you will need to take some time to perform research. Rushing through this decision may lead to a case of buyer’s remorse. Going in and test driving a few different bikes can help you figure out which one of the right fit for your needs.
Once you have found and purchased a motorcycle, your main goal needs to be keeping it in good shape. Failing to perform essential motorcycle maintenance will lead to the development of serious repair issues. This means you will be unable to ride and enjoy your bike.
Read below to find out more about some of the most important motorcycle maintenance procedures.
1. Keeping Your Motorcycle Clean
Hopping on the back of your motorcycle and riding on the roadways of your area can be a lot of fun. As you drive your bike, you will pick up a lot of dust and dirt. Once you are done with your ride, be sure to focus on cleaning up your motorcycle.
With a bit of soapy water and some elbow grease, you can restore the shine your motorcycle has lost. Once you are done soaking the bike down, be sure to rinse it off. Adding a bit of lubricant to the gears and chain is also a good idea following a wash.
Failing to put this lubricant on these wet components can lead to the formation of rust. While cleaning your motorcycle is hard work, it is definitely worth the energy you invest.
2. Checking and Changing Tires is Essential Motorcycle Maintenance
Adding a Sena intercom or new handlebars to a bike can make it more appealing and functional. While most motorcycle owners are passionate about adding customized components to their bike, many forget about the basic maintenance procedures.
One of the most important parts of your motorcycle are the tires. As time goes by, the tires on your motorcycle will begin to wear out and will need to be replaced. Getting in the habit of checking the tread and pressure of your tires before each ride is a good idea.
If your pressure readings are consistently low, chances are there is a leak present. Driving on tires that aren’t properly inflated can be dangerous. This is why checking them before each ride is so important.
3. Functional Brakes are a Must
Bring your motorcycle to a complete stop is something you do multiple times per trip. Most motorcycle owners fail to realize just how many different elements have to work together for their bike to stop. A motorcycle’s braking system is composed of things like rotors, pads and calipers.
The longer these parts are on a motorcycle, they more wear they will experience. Allowing professionals to inspect your bike’s braking system regularly can help you stay ahead of repair issues.
If the motorcycle mechanic sees that your pads or rotors or worn, they will replace them with ease. Failing to replace these worn components will put you and the motorists driving around you in danger. With the help of a seasoned motorcycle mechanic, getting brake system repair performs will be a breeze.
4. Get Your Headset and Crank Checked Out Regularly
Each time you accelerate on your motorcycle, the headset and crank are exposed to a great deal of torque and pressure. This high level of torque will start to loosen the components of these systems over time. Letting a mechanic check for lateral movement of the headset and crank is a smart move.
If these parts are allowed to stay loose, it is only a matter of time before disaster strikes. Often times, you will hear a number of creaks and knocks when these components are loose.
As soon as you notice these warning signs, you need to make an appointment with a trusted mechanic in your area. They can easily diagnose and fix the cause of these sounds in a timely manner.
5. Keep an Eye on Your Cables
Most motorcycles have a series of cables that are in charge of shifting gears and even stopping when needed. Some new motorcycle owners think that these cables just snap all of the sudden. In reality, you will notice a number of warning signs when a cable needs to be replaced.
Inspecting these cables on a regular basis can help you find these problems before they cause any real damage. These inspections are especially important during the winter months of the year. The colder the temperatures outside get, the higher the risk becomes for cable corrosion.
Removing these cables form their housing will give you a look at their true condition. If you notice things like fraying or excessive corrosion, having the cable replaced is essential. Waiting too long to fix this problem can lead to the cable snapping and you being stranded on the side of the road.
6. Fix Problems With Squeaking Chains
Another important motorcycle component you need to keep an eye on is the chain. The older the chain on your bike gets, the more wear it will begin to show.
Over time, friction will wear out the various components of the chain. If you notice the chain is squeaking, wiping it down with some lubricant is vital. If the lubricant doesn’t fix the issue, you need to let a mechanic look at it.
Seek Out Professional Help
Performing motorcycle maintenance can be extremely difficult. This is why seeking out the help of a knowledgeable motorcycle mechanic is a good idea.
Are you looking for more motorcycle-related content? If you answered yes, be sure to take a look at our blog on how to drive your motorcycle in the rain.