For your motorcycle to start, a combustion process utilizes fuel and diverts neutralized waste through the exhaust system. The air filter plays a crucial role, keeping dust and dirt particles out of the engine for optimal operation. Learn about this important component and signs of a clogged air filter.
What Does a Motorcycle Air Filter Do?
The air filter traps dust, dirt and other particles as air travels to your motorcycle engine. Over time, accumulated debris causes the air filter to operate less efficiently. It starts to pass into the engine and air flow is limited, affecting the combustion process.
Insufficient combustion affects how well your motorcycle rides. It may lose power, start going through more fuel or release smoke from the exhaust system. Engine components may start to wear sooner – particularly the pistons and cylinders – and will need repairs.
Motorcycle owners should routinely check the quality of the air filter. A clogged filter will need to be emptied or replaced, depending on if its reusable or disposable.
The filter is located behind the carburetor or fuel injector and air passes through the intake system. Based on material, air filters include the following types:
- Pleated Paper: The least expensive option, this filter uses a pleated design for greater surface area. They are not reusable and typically need to be replaced more often.
- Cotton Gauze: These filters offer greater durability, featuring lightweight, porous cotton with an oil coating. This arrangement traps dirt without impacting air flow and has a longer lifespan compared to paper options.
- Foam: A reusable option, foam filters feature an oil coating but have thicker construction that performs better in damp conditions. On occasion, these filters should be emptied and re-oiled.
Signs of a Clogged Motorcycle Air Filter
Air filters should be checked every 2,500 miles when a service is completed. Foam filters should be emptied or replaced at least every 1,500 miles and paper filters every 12,000 miles. If you ride in dustier conditions or off-road, expect to change the filter more frequently.
The air filter is holding on to too much dirt if you notice:
- Visible dirt accumulation, especially between material layers or a darker color
- Smoke coming from the exhaust pipe
- The spark plugs are not working correctly or may have failed
- Riding is more difficult; you may have trouble accelerating or a slower response time
- The motorcycle’s power randomly shuts off
- Your bike is consuming fuel at a faster rate
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