As a bike owner, you need to understand the importance of maintaining your motorcycle. Motorcycle maintenance is so much more than maintenance obligations that have to be done just because it’s the time.
General maintenance is part of motorbike ownership that makes a lot of difference between getting stranded and a safe ride. Basic maintenance of motorcycle can be easily done, taking care of a few simple things. These will keep your bike in a great condition with no or little unpleasant surprises.
Droom cares about well-being, maintenance, safety, and resale value of your vehicle from the moment you buy. Following are some DIY motorcycle care and maintenance tips:
Maintain apt PSI pressure as defined by manufacturer to enjoy safe ride. Low air pressure increases the rolling resistance, reducing the economy, whereas, higher pressure results in increased wear and tear of tyres, resulting harsh ride quality. Change in temperature can also affect the air pressure, so it is recommended to get it check at least once a week. Also tyres may require more pressure, if usually your motorcycle is overload. Check air pressure tyre are cold.
Regularly Change the OilIt’s crucial to change the oil frequently or as recommended by the manufacturer. Engine of motorcycle is made of different hard parts that works properly only due to thin layer of oil within them (else they can grind themselves).So, when oil breaks down, the engine could not perform well deteriorating its condition over time.
BrakesEvery motorcycle has up to two brake fluid reservoirs (for front and for back), that should be checked regularly. The brake fluid in them absorbs the moisture and becomes less effective. Replacing it every one year or two year will enhance performance of bike. Also fluid must be used from the sealed bottle only.
Chain TensionIncorrect or inappropriate tension on chain can cause major damage to your vehicle. It can result in gearbox wear, interrupted transmission, premature sprocket, rough gearshift, and affect rear suspension while reducing the life of drive-chain. Adjust the chain to correct tension while someone sitting on it, as bike chain tension tightens up when someone boards it.
Also lubricate the chain with a good quality chain spray. It is best done immediately after you take a ride, when chain is warm.
Clean Air FilterEverything that goes into the bike passes through the air filter, which makes it really important to clean the air filter. If your air filter is dirty or not oiled properly, it may result in cut down of air flow to the cylinders, and dirt, dust, or other foreign abrasives can enter into the engine. These dust particles can hamper valves, internal bearings and cylinders. So, it is recommendable to clean or replace the air filter whenever required. For those riding in dustier surrounding, get air filter cleaned or replaced more often.
CoolantCoolant keeps your bike’s engine cool, so that it doesn’t overheat. Otherwise unavailability of coolant can lead to busting of radiator or ceasing of engine. So, make sure to check the radiator on monthly basis and refill the coolant whenever required. Do it only when radiator stone is cold.
Shaft and Belt DriversShaft drives and belt require only little maintenance. Change the shaft drive oil whenever you change the oil of your bike. Also check the belt tension at that time to enjoy a long and happy life of the bike shaft drive.
Fuel FilterIf your motorbike has a fuel filter make sure to get it replaced every two years. Also remember to turn off the fuel tap (petcock) every time you park it. This will prevent unnecessary leakage of fuel and spoiling the carbs or engine.
Replace the BearingsBike’s key bearings need to be replaced timely for better performance. Check steering stem bearings and wheel bearing, they need a regular replacement even if you grease them often. Never hold on replacement of bad bearings as they breakdown fast.
Keep Engine CleanBike’s key bearings need to be replaced timely for better performance. Check steering stem bearings and wheel bearing, they need a regular replacement even if you grease them often. Never hold on replacement of bad bearings as they breakdown fast.
Avoid Aggressive DrivingTry driving at a steady speed, avoiding those instant brakes and hasty accelerations, and turn smoothly. This affects the overall fuel efficiency and hampers the engine performance.