There are numerous modes of transportation, thanks to the advent of technology, but motorcycles are getting more popular these days. Many people have discovered and realized how easy motorcycle riders can manoeuvre and escape traffic, which means they can arrive at their destinations faster. If you’re one of those who are thinking of switching to a motorcycle as your daily transport system, it pays to know more about this two-wheeled vehicle.
Maintaining your vehicle is essential to keep your bike in the best working condition. After all, this also directly impacts your safety when riding it. Even if you’ve just started being a biker, you shouldn’t feel intimidated by motorcycle maintenance tasks.
Use this guide below to implement your motorcycle’s upkeep properly.
1. Condition Your Chain
A motorcycle is made up of parts that are important to make it run perfectly. One of which is the chain. From the engine to the tires, energy is transferred through the chain. Therefore, you need to condition it regularly by lubricating it with high-quality chain lubes. When the chain is greased well, your ride becomes smooth and trouble-free. Fortunately, motorcycle and other auto shops sell chain lubricants and a chain maintenance set that comes with all the things you need to maintain your chain.
Another essential maintenance step to ensure your chain’s working condition is to check its looseness or tightness. The back wheel may be locked out if the chain is utterly loose, or it can dangerously slip off the sprockets. On the other hand, if the chain is too tight, it can impact and damage other parts. There should be a balance between the two. The best thing to do is to check your chain’s fit. You can refer to your manual or have a motorcycle mechanic do this task for you. While at it, have them check the other mechanical parts of the surrounding area within the chain. Or, if you’re doing the job yourself, you may refer to online resources such as Reid Supply’s guide to help you better understand the nature of pins, for instance, allowing you to easily spot issues in such components.
2. Change Oil Regularly
Changing the oil can be done by yourself if you follow the manual or do your research online. For starters, you need to know how frequently you should change your oil. While this may depend on the type of motorcycle you own, some people would tell you it’s best to do it at least once a year.
However, the more miles you put on your bike, the more often you need to change the oil. Additionally, you may need to change your oil more than once a year if you drive in a dirty or dusty environment. Your oil should always be at a high or maximum level before you hit the road. You shouldn’t risk drying it up, so refill more if the level is too low than needed.
3. Check Cables And Lights
Your motorcycle also comes with cables and lights, which need to be checked regularly. Cables that are loose or damaged can be easily spotted through a visual inspection. Some cables could get detached or tangled, so it’s important to spot these issues early on. They should be placed securely in the vehicle’s body, so they won’t twist into the wheels and other parts.
A worn cable or termination point can suddenly cause breaks, clutches, or lighting components to fail. In such cases, it’s paramount to visit the mechanic and have them replaced instantly. Lights are necessary, especially if you’re driving after sunset.
To check if your lights are working, simply start the engine and turn the switches of each one in turn. Ensure all your light components are working, including your beams, headlights, and brake lights. Also, be keen on the height and the illumination level as they can be distracting for the opposing cars on the road.
4. Constantly Charge Or Replace The Battery
Finally, don’t overlook your batteries. These are usually placed and covered from rain and dirt in a protective box. Don’t forget to inspect them regularly while performing motorcycle maintenance. Despite the fact that modern motorcycle batteries don’t need much maintenance, continuous vibration and use can lead to loose terminal connections and dirt accumulation, which can prevent the charge from flowing smoothly.
Always charge to ensure your battery is still charging; otherwise, replace them with a new one if the battery level is constantly low.
Conclusion
You can continue riding the open road with confidence and safety as long as you perform these essential maintenance tips for your bike. Even if you’re a beginner at riding motorcycles, don’t overlook the importance of the steps above. Read the manual, check your bike, and perform maintenance works that are doable for you. Otherwise, it’s best to seek a mechanic’s help to maintain your vehicle. Also, consider following other motorcycle blogs to learn riding techniques and more.
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