9 Tips for Proper Maintenance of Your Motorbike

Motorcycles are the most economical mode of transport in this rising economy.

However, like everything else in life, they too require proper maintenance and a certain degree of care.

Not everyone is born with the brains and skill of a mechanic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t adapt and learn.

Let me tell you a few DIY tips for motorbike maintenance to keep it in its prime condition:

Is It Time for an Oil Change

For maintenance of any automotive, you need to change the oil regularly.

Or, at least, at every 5,000 to 10,000 km distance you travel.

Keep in mind,

In the summer months, oil consumption tends to be higher, whereas, in the winter season, you’ll find yourself with more residual fuel at the end of the month.

Also, the frequency of oil change depends on the bike model as well as the type of oil you use.

If, for instance, you have one of the modern designs, then your motorbike can do without it longer than older models.

Similarly, synthetic oil is more proficient, meaning, less frequent oil change.

Reduced rate of oil change would mean lower maintenance costs annually, despite the higher charges of synthetic oil.

Check Your Tires

It’s one of the most primary etiquettes of owning a motorbike that you check your tires before you begin any journey.

Many things affect the rubber on your wheels:

• The weather;
• The temperature;
• The condition of the roads.

These factors leave the rubber cracked, torn, punctured, and worn endangering you as well as anyone else on the road with you.

Plus, if you don’t, then there are higher chances of you ending up stranded in the middle of nowhere, with a punctured tire, and no help in sight.

If you don’t want to be a hitchhiker for some random stranger, then make sure to check your tires – the pressure as well as the tread – when the rubber is cold and at rest.

A point to remember is that if the tire is over-inflated, it will make less contact with the road, meaning decreased grip.

On the other hand, if air pressure is below optimum, there will be difficulty in handling and braking.

Therefore, you should use a pressure gauge when checking the air pressure to make sure it is within the optimum range.

Clean Out the Air Filters

A clogged air filter leads to dirt and grit in your engine – meaning engine troubles and impromptu stops in the middle of the roads.

That is why it is recommended to clean the air filters at least every 10,000 km.

Depending on the level of dust in the air, where you reside, you can change the frequency of clean up. However, regular clean-up would still be the best option, or at least once every week.

If you need replacement air filters but are a little short on cash, then you can always use coupons from PennySaviour to get discounts.

Are the Brakes in Top Condition Keeping the brake pads in prime condition should be a top priority. Why? Because, if there is too much wear and tear, then they are not likely to work. And, if you like speeding up, then you need to be able to stop before you become a pancake on the side of the road. When you feel that your brake pads are getting thinner than 2mm, then I suggest you change them. The frequency for change depends on how much you drive as well as the terrain you drive on; although experts suggest having them replaced, every 10,000 to 15,000 km. What about the Chain

Dirt and dust can accumulate in the small nooks and crannies of the chain resulting in disruption of the gearbox.

So, you need to clean them to avoid road accidents.

However, don’t go using water for cleaning; it’ll rust the chain links.

Instead, use paraffin oil or other lubricant and use a soft cloth to wipe it down and a brush to remove the dirt.

Tip: If the chain is warm – like after a ride – the heat will help absorb the oil.

Additionally, make sure there is not too much tension in the chain.

If it is stretched too tight, the tension will cause excessive wear and tear and may break even on the road.

On the other hand, being too loose, it will reduce mileage and may as well fall off.

Therefore, check your manual for the ideal chain tension.

A point to note is that generally, you can travel up to 30,000 km before you need to replace your bike chain.

Check the Spark Plug

For every 6,000 to 12,000 km distance you travel, you should check your spark plugs.

If corroded, then replace them as soon as possible.

Keep in mind; the bike should be at rest for at least two hours before you go tampering with them.

When you unscrew the spark plug socket and ratchet, check the color; orange means it’s good to go, whereas, white means you have an overheated engine, and black indicates the air and fuel mixture is too concentrated.

Afterward, when replacing the socket, use your hands to screw it close. It will help make sure it is not too tight.

A spark plug in less than optimal condition leads to a lot of bike problems.

Therefore, try and include spark plug check up to your motorbike maintenance regime.

Don’t Forget the Battery

Your motorcycle battery needs to be maintained.

For battery maintenance, there are many steps you could follow:

• Clean it – you don’t want corrosion or dirt and dust to accumulate.
• Review the connectors – if they are loose, then your bike won’t start.
• Check for leaks – the battery contains acid that is toxic to humans; you don’t want it dripping everywhere.
• Charge it weekly, if not regularly– waiting until it is completely exhausted will reduce it's lifespan.

I should warn you that your charging schedule should be different for the winter and summer months. You’d need to charge it more often during the freezing winter to protect from frost.

Did I Mention the Engine

If you maintain regular tune-up, then the engine will run smoothly longer than if you neglect it.

Plus, it will reduce your maintenance costs as well.

I have already mentioned the spark plugs, but you also need to keep your carburetor and valves clean, free of any speck of dirt and dust.

Keep a Liquid Coolant

Your engine heats up when it burns fuel, so you need a coolant on standby.

Not only that, but a coolant also protects the engine from the summer heat and winter frost.

Typically, you would need to replace the coolant every two years or so, unless you are on the road for more extended periods.

Final Note

Primarily, proper maintenance of your motorbike involves regular cleaning and tune-ups.

If you lay down a regime and stick to it, it will be smooth sailing and a longer lifespan for your bike.

Haziqa Ishtiaq is a blogger and a content specialist for PennySaviour. She holds a degree in Biotechnology but chose to follow her passion for literature as a writer.