Motorcycle maintenance tips

Keeping your bike in optimum condition:

Get to know your motorcycle, read the handbook and make sure you understand its
features, servicing requirements and the manufacturer’s advice on how best to care for it. A
well-maintained and cared-for bike will be more attractive to future buyers. A proper
maintenance history will also maximise its value when it comes time to sell it.

Keep all maintenance up to date. Scheduled servicing is set out in the owner’s handbook
and by planning ahead you can budget for the cost. Planning ahead will also reduce the
inconvenience of having your bike off the road unexpectedly.

Carry out basic maintenance checks to keep the bike in an optimum condition between
scheduled services. These checks also allow you to spot any warning signs before they
become a major problem.

Basic checks include:

 Operation of lights and horn;

 Engine/transmission oil, clutch and brake fluid levels – any need for regular topping
up is an indicator of a leak or other problem;
 Tyre condition and tread depth – any cuts to the tyre needs to be attended to
immediately as does tread worn unevenly or to the legal limit;
 Check tyre pressure regularly when the tyres are cold. Under-inflation causes
premature tyre wear and poor handling;
 Ensure the chain is correctly adjusted and lubricated with a purpose specific chain
lubricant;
 Operation of controls such as clutch and brake levers, mirrors, gear shift and
switches. Adjust if necessary so that they are working properly and can be used
comfortably
 Adjust mirrors to provide the optimum field of vision to the rear and sides of the
motorcycle. Careful positioning will reduce blind spots; and
 Ensure any luggage racks, top-box, panniers or bags are secure and not rubbing on
the bike’s mechanical or moving parts. Keep touring screens clear of bugs and smears.

Read the manual carefully

As motorcycles age you are likely to find that additional repair work is needed at service
time. Make sure you advise the repairer that any additional work found during the service
has to be authorised by you before they carry out the repair. This will eliminate
disagreements when you go to collect the bike.

Avoid any temptation to skip servicing or essential repairs as the bike’s safety and reliability
will be put at risk. Skipping services often leads to larger repair bills down the track. Choose
your repairer carefully, if you decide to use an independent repairer rather than an approved
dealer, make sure they have the necessary training and service tools to do the job, like the
people at Whoops Wheel Fix It for example. Only approved dealers can undertake
warranty related work.
If you do your own servicing and repairs use only quality parts and oils that meet or exceed
the manufacturer’s specifications. An inferior part may save you a few dollars but may lead
to an expensive repair if it fails.

Only undertake DIY servicing and repairs if you have sufficient skills, technical information
and tools to do the job. Modern motorcycles have complicated electronic and mechanical
systems that can require complex diagnostic procedures and its easy to cause additional
problems that will add to the cost of rectification.

 
 

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