Like cars and trucks, motorcycles can last a very long time if the owner takes good care of the bike. If you simply fill your motorcycle with gas and ride, eventually parts will fail, fluids will run low and other dangerous mechanical breakdowns may occur.
You don’t have to be a professional mechanic to spot check your bike! While it helps to familiarize yourself with the main components of a motorcycle, you will certainly know when something isn’t right due to how the motorcycle sounds and handles.
We want everyone to be safe on the roads, so here are a few tips for maintaining your ride.
Schedule Yearly Professional Maintenance
Even if you are a seasoned mechanic, it is recommended that you have your motorcycle fully inspected on a yearly basis; a professional may identify problems you don’t see. It is also a good idea to have a mechanic check on the important components of your motorcycle, including the engine, tires and brakes.
Change the Oil on Time
When it comes to changing the engine oil, follow the same rule that applies to cars. The general timeframe is every 3 months or 3,000 miles. Use this as a reference point; you’ll likely need to change the oil more frequently during peak riding season (spring through fall) and less during the winter, but it makes sense to always be on top of the oil. When you put your bike away for the winter, make sure it has been filled with fresh oil.
Have Your Brakes Inspected
In addition to the rider’s skill level, proper brakes can prevent many motorcycle accidents. Therefore, it’s critical that you get your brakes checked every 6,000 miles. This will vary depending on how often you ride, where you ride and the quality of the original brakes, but it makes sense to have the brake pads checked on a regular basis. Another key point to keep in mind is that if your brake pads are thinner than 2mm, it’s time to replace them.
Protect Your Battery
We do not advise that you start your bike to charge the battery, as you are actually doing more harm than good! Instead, buy a battery tender or remove the battery and bring it someplace warm where it won’t freeze during the cold winter months.
The longevity and performance of your motorcycle isn’t always up to the manufacturer – it’s up to you! So, the more time you devote to maintenance, the longer you will ride.