Motorcycle care and maintenance

Proper care and maintenance on you motorcycle brings you safe on every rides. Right way in maintaining you motorbike less hassle and less costs. Maintenance is the second thought a rider must take into consideration and not taken for granted from insuring the perfect condition likewise with assurance to the journey. Taking care of the vehicle is next to insurance. Some illustrations below should remember to avoid risk in riding which cause into accident.

Engine/transmission oil level - It is important to ensure that the oil level doesn't drop below the minimum marking. An engine in good condition will use very little oil between oil changes. If your bike has an inspection window, check that the oil level is between the MAX and MIN markings.

Before checking the oil level, support the bike upright on level ground to allow the oil level to stabilize.If your bike has a dipstick, note where the oil comes to in relation to the MAX and MIN markings. If the level is too low, remove the filler cap from the top of the crankcase and top up with the specified oil type. Always use motorcycle engine oil - not oil designed for use in car engines.

Steering and suspension - Check that the steering moves smoothly when the handlebars are turned from side to side. Also check that the front and rear suspension operates smoothly when you sit on the bike.

Coolant - The coolant level should not fall unless the system has developed a leak. Locate the coolant reservoir and check that the coolant level is between the two level marks on the reservoir. If necessary top up with a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and antifreeze.

Tyres - The correct tyre pressure is essential on a bike. Always check tyre pressure with the tyres cold - never after riding because the pressure increases when hot. Give the tyre a quick visual check for any damage or wear of the tread.

Use a tyre pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tyre, compare this with the specified pressure (usually on a label attached to the chainguard or rear mudguard) and use a pump to increase the pressure if necessary.

Lights and horn - Check that all lights, brake lights and turn signals work. Check that the horn works - you never know when you might need it!

Brakes - Check the brakes regularly. Their application must be firm and they must be fully applied without the lever (front) or pedal (rear) reaching its full travel. They must also free off completely when the lever or pedal is released and allow the wheels to turn freely without drag. Check the fluid level of hydraulic brakes by viewing the level in relation to the lines on the master cylinder reservoir. If it is below the LOWER line, top up the fluid. Use the fluid type marked on the reservoir cap (usually DOT 4) and top up to the level line inside the reservoir.

Drive chain - Most bikes have chain drive to the rear wheel. It is important that the chain is well lubricated and does not have too much freeplay.  If the chain looks dry give it a quick squirt of aerosol chain lube. If the chain looks too slack adjust its tension as soon as possible.