How to Maintain Your Motorcycle at Home
As a motorcycle owner, maintenance is a big aspect of the overall care and experience of your ride. Proper maintenance contributes to safety on the road and the longevity of your bike. Although some tasks will need to be completed in a professional garage, there are several things you can do at home!
Start with the Manual
The owner’s manual is often overlooked, but most of the information you’ll ever need is found inside. Your specific make and model will require different care tasks, fluid types, and tools. You can even find a general servicing timeline to help you create the best maintenance routine based on your riding style. Starting with the manual will help you gain a better understanding of what your bike needs.
Oil Changes
One of the most common projects that can be tackled at home is an oil change. You should frequently be checking your oil by using the dipstick to check the level. As you check, pay attention to the oil quality. If you notice sludge or a dark brown color, it’s likely time to replace it!
Determine how much oil is required and what type before changing it. If you notice any metallic shavings or powder while draining the old oil, you should schedule an appointment with your mechanic; this could be a sign of engine grinding.
Brakes
Another common project that can be undertaken at home is replacing the brake pads. Your brake system is obviously a very important aspect of safety, so if you aren’t comfortable completing the task yourself, don’t hesitate to go to a professional!
You want your pads to wear smoothly and evenly; if they are corroded or you notice grinding, it is definitely time to replace them! Between changes, you should be checking the brake fluid to maintain adequate levels. Along with this maintenance task, checking the brake fluid often can help you monitor for any bigger problems.
Fuel
Did you know the fuel filter can have a big impact on how your motorcycle performs? The filter can become clogged overtime, resulting in the engine receiving less power.
Whenever you fuel up your bike, you should make sure to use the best quality and proper fuel type. If you aren’t a frequent rider, it may be beneficial to invest in the higher octane option to help reduce the risk of corrosion as it sits.
Tires
Ideally you should inspect your tires before and after every ride. Look for any signs of damage or leaking air. Also note the tire pressure. Having too much or too little air in the tires can cause performance issues.
Next, monitor the available tread. It will naturally wear over time, but it’s important to have enough grip during travel. If you notice accelerated rates of wear, your tires might be out of alignment.
General Inspection and Cleaning
Finally, you should have a frequent routine to perform a general inspection and cleaning of your motorcycle. Test your lights, clean your windshield, empty out your storage compartments, give it a wash, and test the charge of the battery.
Maintaining your motorcycle at home can be a great way to take pride as an owner and increase the lifespan of your bike. Our team at Beaverhead Motorsports, located in Dillon, MT, would love to help you create the right maintenance schedule for you and your motorcycle. We have a great parts and service department and proudly serve the Butte area.
