Motorcycle Maintenance Tips
While motorcycles are both cheaper and provide a greater feeling of freedom than cars, they are also much more dangerous. There is little we can do to fix a bad road or irresponsible driver, but there are many steps that can be taken to help ensure a motorcycle rider’s safety. Proper motorcycle maintenance is the key. It doesn’t just save lives, but it keeps the bike looking and sounding impressive. Below is a list of some of the parts you should be taking a look at regularly.
Drive Chain – A drive chain connects the gearbox to the rear wheel. Without it, the tires would not spin when you use the accelerator. To best maintain drive chains, use WD-40 or another lubricant. For the biker who doesn’t mind taking equipment apart and putting it back together, removing the chain and submerging it in cleaner is the best course of action, but just scrubbing it while it’s still on the bike works too. Keep the lube away from the brake pads and tire rubber.
Tires – Without tires, your motorcycle isn’t going anywhere. But be sure to keep an eye on the tread. When it wears too much, replace them. Also keep tires inflated, even during the winter when the bike isn’t being used. If you stop using it in November, go back to it in December and January and spin the tires a bit so all of the pressure doesn’t stay on the same spots. The pressure inside the tires should be between 21 and 28 psi, but if you deem road conditions poor, you may want to drop slightly below this interval to improve friction.
Brakes –When the driver hits the brake pedal, the brake pads rub against the wheels, slowing down the motorcycle. Check brake pads often. If they have worn down to the metal, it can harm the bike when you use them. It is also important to replace brake fluid every year or two.
Alignment – If the handlebars shudder when moving at higher speeds, there is likely a problem with tire alignment. While it is important to keep an eye on the hash marks on the bike, it is also important to remember that they are usually incorrect. There are specific alignment tools, but a pro can make due with a tape measure and a few bolts. When you’re done aligning for the first time, mark the bike in your own way so you can skip the first few steps next time.
Wheel Bearings – A bearing is what allows a tire to spin around. With quality bearings, a chain should rumble smoothly over the sprocket and the tires should be firmly in place. If there is a problem with either of these factors, it’s possible there is an issue with your motorcycle’s wheel bearings.
Steering Head Bearings – Just as wheel bearings permit tire revolution, steering head bearings allow the handlebars to turn left and right. If your motorcycle wobbles when driving at high speeds, you may have maladjusted bearings. They are easy to access, located under the handlebars, behind the light. However, they aren’t easy to replace, especially if they are ball bearings. If you suspect there is a problem and don’t know how to fix them already, consult a mechanic.
Swing Arm Bearings – Swing arm bearings allow the swing arm to pivot. Once you remove the seat and get into the back of the bike, you can remove the swing arm. Disassemble the bearings one by one, clean them and inspect for wear. If they look too worn, replace them. If not, grease up the bolts and put it back together.
Shock Linkage Bushings – Part of the suspension system that connects the wheels to the bike, shock linkage bushings should be cleaned along with the swing arm bearings. Located behind the muffler, clean out the pivot shaft holes with kerosene and then grease them up before you put them back on the bike.
Suspension – Maintaining good suspension is necessary for handling. With poor suspension, leaning, swerving and stability (and therefore safety) are compromised. In addition to the swing arm and shocks, keep an eye on the forks. Forks can handle rust, but be sure to clean them anyway.
Engine – Keep the bike filled with both fresh oil (change it every 3000 miles) and coolant. If each doesn’t stay circulating, the motorcycle will overheat. Remember to clean the oil filter regularly. Also clean or change the air filter as necessary. If it gets too caked with dirt and dust, the engine will have trouble breathing.
Battery – Along with the alternator, the battery sends an electrical current that flows through the wires inside your motorcycle. Since you will not likely drive your motorcycle during the winter months, it is a good idea to attach a battery tender to it. If for any reason you need to disconnect or change the battery, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal first. If the battery needs to be cleaned, use only distilled water. Remember, water conducts electricity.
Alternator – The alternator powers the electrical system in the motorcycle. If the brightness of the headlight changes when you press the gas pedal, then there is probably an issue with the alternator. Check the wiring.
Wiring – Wires enable the flow of electricity. If for any reason they become disconnected, be it an accident or intentional rewiring; be sure of what each wire is attached to before disconnecting it or attaching it to something new. Be careful, some of them maintain a current even when the bike is off.