You don’t need to be a motorcycle mechanic to do simple maintenance work. There are several easy tasks of motorcycle maintenance you can do yourself at your home garage. Getting your hands on motorcycle maintenance is easier than you think.
All you need are some simple tools and a little guidance to carry out simple home servicing procedures like checking on the tyres, chain, battery and engine oil, coolant, etc. You can make use of a good-quality paddock stand while working on your bike. Such products are available in motorcycle accessories stores online.
You should get a hold of your motorcycle workshop manual for a better idea of how each task should be carried out. This will help you take care of your new bike. The motorcycle maintenance manual will illustrate each task and provide you with the list of tools you will need to complete the job.
Motorcycles come with a toolset, but these are usually meant for emergency fixes. Invest in a high-quality tool set of tools. Also, buy a safe motorcycle helmet. If you plan to go touring with your motorcycle, get some bike touring accessories like leather shoes, panniers and bike chain wallets.
Some of the motorcycle maintenance tasks might be daunting at first. Ask for help from someone more experienced if you need a hand while diving into these tasks.
Easy motorcycle maintenance tasks
Not every bike rider is inclined towards motorcycle maintenance or DIY jobs in the home garage. Some don’t have the expertise while others complain about not having the right tools. However, learning some of the basic maintenance techniques ensures your bike stays in good condition. It can also save you a bit of money in the long run.
Just imagine how much time and funds you will save if you learn the common mistakes when washing your motorbike and best ways to avoid them.
Here is a list of the top motorcycle maintenance tasks you can perform at home with simple tools.
Tyre pressure
Tyre pressure should ideally be checked every time you set off on a ride. Underinflation can seriously affect ride and handling. It can also lead to uneven or unwarranted tyre wear. Check your motorcycle tyre pressure with a simple pressure gauge.
Chain tension
Uneven chain tension can lead to gearbox wear and transmission issues. Adjust the chain to the right tension for smooth riding and minimal wear on your gearbox.
Coolant levels
If you ride a motorcycle with a liquid-cooled engine, check the coolant levels at regular intervals. Topping off the coolant level is a simple task and keeps the bike running in good condition. An air-cooled engine does not have coolant, so you don’t have to worry about that.
Oil change
Changing your motorcycle engine oil is easy if you have a paddock stand and oil pan. Just drain out the old oil and replace it with new engine oil. Service centres often charge a lot of money for this simple maintenance activity.
Battery check
A simple voltmeter can help you check the charge status of your battery. If the battery is low, use a battery charger to replenish its electric charge. This will ensure you always have electric power and won’t get stuck on the road.
Air filter replacement
Changing your air filter can help your motorcycle run much smoother. The air filter is the main breathing mechanism of your bike. A new air filter will also provide good fuel economy and protect vital engine components from getting damaged by dirt.
Spark plugs
Spark plugs provide the spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Excessive carbon deposits on the spark plug can affect fuel economy and prevent smooth riding. Replace the spark plugs when required.
Replace brake pads or drums
Brakes are an essential safety component of your motorcycle. If the brakes are worn out, replace them using a few simple tools. It will make your rides safer and handling will improve.
Keep the clutch and throttle cables well lubricated for responsive action and to improve their function.
Conclusion
If you are the type of motorcycle rider that takes your ride into the service centre for a tyre change or oil change, the expenses may start adding up. With simple motorcycle accessories like a paddock stand and a toolbox, you can carry out simple procedures on your own at home.
In addition to regular servicing, motorcyclists need insurance as well, which can be expensive. You can save a lot of money and time by carrying out simple motorcycle maintenance tasks yourself.
Regular maintenance activities will ensure your bike runs in good condition. You will always have a smooth ride and won’t be left stranded on the road.
Keep some of these tips and tricks on motorcycle maintenance in mind for a trouble-free riding experience.
Also Read: Know About the Critical Chassis Issues
