Are you ignoring your motorcycle’s maintenance needs? Not taking care of your bike can cause it to perform poorly, be less safe, and cost a lot to fix later. Learning how to maintain your motorcycle is key for all of us who want to enjoy riding without worrying about reliability and safety.
Regular maintenance includes tasks like oil changes, tyre care, chain lubrication, and brake checks. By doing these things regularly, you ensure your bike runs well, stays safe, and lasts longer. If you ignore maintenance, you might face issues like bad fuel efficiency, less power, unexpected breakdowns, or even accidents.
To become a maintenance master, you need a systematic approach. This means understanding the basics of maintenance, making a regular checklist, and knowing when to do things yourself or get help from a pro. With the right knowledge, tools, and effort, you can keep your motorcycle in top condition, no matter how many miles you ride.
What do we need for Basic Motorcycle Maintenance?
If we are going to be lightly servicing our own bikes, we’ll need a few basic tools to start off with. It doesn’t have to be expensive, though. Having said that, they say a bad craftsman always blames his tools, so it might help to remember that quality tools can last longer and I suppose we get what we pay for.
Basic Tool Kit Requirements
Every rider needs a basic set of tools. Some bikes come with a simple tool kit included with their bike (packed under the seat). These can help with basic roadside maintenance. Regardless, a quality motorcycle tool kit at home usually has these handy items:
- Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
- Wrenches (10mm to 17mm)
- Socket set (3/8″ and 1/4″)
- Pliers and needle-nose pliers
- Tyre pressure gauge and pump
Specialised Tools for Specific Tasks
Although we might be jumping the gun at this stage, for more complex maintenance, special tools are needed. Consider adding these items to your tool kit if you start getting serious. They’ll make tasks like oil changes and tyre repairs easier:
- Torque wrench
- Chain breaker
- Oil filter wrench
- Tyre levers
- Hydraulic motorcycle lift
Maintenance Schedule Overview and Common Tasks
Keeping to a regular maintenance schedule will make it easier down the road. Check your owner’s manual for when to service your particular bike. Common tasks to get used to regularly doing or checking include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Tyre pressure checks and tread inspection
- Brake fluid level examination and more so brake pad wear assessment
- Chain cleaning, lubrication, and tension adjustment
- Battery maintenance and electrical system checks
Safety Precautions During Maintenance
When we’re doing maintenance, safety should come first. Consider wearing gloves and eye protection to avoid injuries. Depending on the job, make sure your bike is stable on a stand before starting the work. If you’re going to be running the engine, (or using strong cleaners or chemicals) make sure a garage door is open or there is plenty of ventilation or fresh air to avoid inhaling carbon dioxide or other pollutants or chemicals.
Regular Inspection Checklist and routine
To keep your motorcycle in great shape, get used to doing regular inspections, especially before a long journey (or after). Using a detailed pre-ride checklist to spot problems early can be useful. Things like tyres, brakes, chain and sprockets, engine oil, battery, and electrical systems can be quick items to check on that list.
The pre-ride check routine doesn’t need to be arduous. We can start by checking the tyres for wear and pressure. You don’t need me to remind you that good tyres mean better road grip and handling. Then, a quick check of the engine oil by looking in the glass oil level window near the oil filler cap, or by checking the dipstick if your model of motorbike uses one of those. Note: Having the bike upright on a centre stand as opposed to leaning on a side stand will give us a more accurate view of the oil level.
Next, we can check the radiator coolant level, and check that there is enough brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir and see if the brake levers and pressure feels strong, while also making sure the brake pads are not too worn down.
Other regular checks include a brief inspection of your motorbike’s chain and sprockets. Are they clean? Are they lubricated/well oiled?
“Regular motorcycle inspections are the key to catching small problems before they turn into big ones, saving you time and money in the long run.”
I tend not to focus on the battery and electrical parts too often, but before travelling a long distance or touring, it’s sensible to look for corrosion on battery terminals and ensure connections are tight. Test lights including the headlight, taillights, and turn signals (USA) or indicators (UK).
Engine Care and Oil Maintenance Essentials
The engine is the heart of your motorcycle. Hopefully, it sounds cool and produces plenty of power for your needs. * If our bikes are second-hand / pre-owned, we can never be too sure of how well treated they were. Taking good care of the engine from now on is important to prolong the life of the bike.
Regardless of owning a new or old bike, changing the engine oil at recommended intervals is essential for its smooth operation and longevity. Regular checks and top ups or changes of the oil should be a priority on the maintenance list. (We mustn’t put too much oil in though.)
Oil Change Procedures and Intervals
Please refer to your owner’s manual / bike manufacturer’s recommendations for oil change interval timelines. If I use the 2023 Yamaha Niken GT as an example, the engine oil needs replacing after the first 1000 km, and then every 6000 km after that. As for the oil filter cartridge, Niken owners need to replace that after 1000 km, 20000 km, and 40000 km.
Choosing the Right Oil Type
Picking the right motorcycle engine oil is very important. Synthetic oils usually last longer than regular ones, which means you might not need to change the oil as often. Always follow what your manufacturer suggests. Here’s a basic rule of thumb:
- Check oil levels monthly
- Change oil every 3,000-5,000 miles
- Choose oil based on manufacturer specifications
- Consider synthetic oil for longer intervals
To summarize the importance of engine maintenance, by sticking to these oil change tips, your motorcycle should run smoothly for many years. Oil changes keep your engine well-lubricated which obviously prevents it from wearing out too soon.
Engine Component Inspection
After taking care of the oil, we can check the air filter. Hopefully, it’s easy to access on your particular model of motorcycle. On the Niken GT, owners are required to replace the air filter every 40000 km (24000 miles).
There are other engine parts to check.
Spark plugs
Spark plug maintenance includes checking their condition, adjusting the gap, and cleaning. On the Niken GT this is done after 10000 km and 30000 km, and so on. Spark plugs need replacing every 20000 km (12000 miles). Your bike might differ. Depending on the bike, they often need replacing around every 10,000 miles. This ensures our motorbikes start well (with a healthy battery).
Valve Clearance (Advanced)
You might hear people talk about valve clearance or valve timing. On the Niken for example, this is a high-skilled job which is checked and done every 40000 km (24,000 miles). You’ll need a professional motorcycle mechanic to do this. I personally would not be comfortable trying such a task. Keeping optimal valve clearance ensures that the engine runs right, and smoothly.
On a side note
I think that many car and bike owners do not crave the cost and time it takes to check or replace the valves. This is why we often see motorbikes or cars up for sale with an odometer reading (mileage) around or approaching the time required to check or replace the valves of the engine. It can be a costly job. Don’t quote me on this, but please leave a comment below and tell me if I’m right.
Air Filter Maintenance
Your motorbike’s air filter is also key to engine health. It stops dirt or debris from getting into the engine and obstructing airflow. Check your owner’s manual about this. For Yamaha Niken peeps the air filter should be replaced every 40,000 km (24000 miles).
Depending on where you ride, you might need to clean or replace it more often. A clean air filter means better air flow and engine efficiency.
Tyre Care and Maintenance Guidelines
Looking after your motorcycle tyres is crucial for your safety and your bike’s performance on the tarmac. It’s important to check tyre pressure, look at wear and tear, and replace tyres when needed. See here for How to change a motorcycle tyre.
To keep the right tyre pressure, look at your motorcycle’s manual for the PSI. If tyres are underinflated, they handle poorly and wear out faster. Overinflated tyres can make your bike less stable and less comfortable. Use a good tyre pressure gauge and check weekly, and more often in the winter.
Look for wear signs like uneven tread, cracks, or objects stuck in the tyre. See here for instructions on how to fix a motorcycle tyre puncture temporarily. Use a tread depth gauge to check tread depth. Worn tyres can affect your bike’s handling and braking and be potentially dangerous.
When it’s time to replace tyres, pick high-quality ones that fit your bike and riding style. Think about tyre size, speed rating, and load capacity. A professional mechanic or tyre expert can help you choose the right tyres for your bike.
Good tyre maintenance habits can also help your tyres last longer. Avoid sudden starts (wheel spins or burnouts), hard braking, and sharp turns to prevent early wear. It’s sensible to wear tyres in when they are new (ride carefully). When not riding, use tyre stands to stop flat spots from forming on the tyres.
Chain and Sprocket Maintenance
The motorcycle chain and sprocket are key parts of the drivetrain. They need regular care for smooth running and long life. If you ignore them, they can wear out fast, perform poorly, and cost a lot to fix. Here, we’ll talk about the necessary steps to keep these components in top shape.
Chain Cleaning and Lubrication
Keeping your motorcycle chain clean and lubricated should be common sense. Dirt and old oil can make it wear down faster and work less efficiently. Keeping it clean will not only make it look newer and shiny, but should make it a little quieter too, compared to a rusty old one. On a more serious note, you don’t want the chain to break on you!
To clean a chain, use a chain cleaner or a mild degreaser and a brush. Let it dry before applying a good chain lubricant. Make sure to spread the lubricant evenly over both sides of the chain links.
Proper Chain Tension Adjustment
Getting the chain tension right helps it run smoothly and avoid damage. If it’s too loose, it can wear out quickly and even fall off. If it’s too tight, it can harm the engine and transmission. It should move about 1 to 1.5 inches vertically between sprockets. Check your motorcycle’s manual for the right tension and adjust it as needed.
(Most bikes have adjusters on the rear axle for fine-tuning the tension.)
Sprocket Wear Assessment
Sprockets wear out over time. Worn sprockets can lead to poor power transfer, faster chain wear, and slippage. Look for signs like missing teeth, uneven wear, or a shark-fin look. If you see these, it’s time for new sprockets.
Note: When replacing sprockets, it’s advisable to also get a new chain for the best performance and life of both components. The sprocket in the above photo is fine.
Brake System Care and Safety Checks
The importance of keeping your motorcycle’s brakes in good shape for a safe ride – goes without saying. Having healthy brakes means you can slow down with confidence and focus on enjoying your journey.
Brake Pad Inspection
Check your brake pads. They wear out, making your bike harder to stop. Look at your pads every month for wear or damage. If they’re worn or damaged, swap them for new ones made for your bike.
Look out for these signs that mean it’s time to replace them:
- Less than 1/8 inch of pad thickness remaining
- Irritating noises when applying brakes
- Reduced braking performance
Brake fluid is an equally important part of being able to stop your bike on a dime as Americans might say. It helps your brakes work by transferring force from the brake lever or brake pedal to the calipers. Having enough and maintaning the quality of brake fluid is important. Sometimes water can get into the brake fluid, which reduces its efficiency. (Mechanswers.com talks about water in brake fluid here (opens in new tab)). Change your brake fluid every two years or as your bike’s manual says.
When you change the fluid, use a top-notch DOT-rated one. Also, learn how to bleed your brakes to get rid of any air bubbles. Your brakes should feel firm and responsive.
Don’t forget to check your brake lines and parts for leaks or damage. Look for cracks, kinks, or wear. Make sure all connections are tight and leak-free. If you find any problems, consider getting a professional to fix them for extra safety. Many riders like to have braided brake lines on their bikes. Braided brake lines are tougher, offer more resistance to pressure in the line, and feel stronger as a result. Needless to say, the brakes are important, and more so your safety, so never neglect your bike’s brakes.
Battery Maintenance and Electrical Systems
Keeping your motorcycle’s battery and electrical system in good shape is another maintenance step to keep in mind. Most of us learn this the inconvenient way by preparing to go for a ride – only to find that the bike won’t start. A flat or unservicable battery is often the reason. When checking battery power it’s good to know about voltages.
A 12V motorcycle battery should have a voltage reading of around 12.6 to 12.8 volts when full. Around 12.4 volts suggests the battery is about 75% charged. To check your battery’s health, leave your bike alone overnight and test it in the morning with a digital multimeter.
Battery Testing and Charging
You can use a multimeter to check the power in the battery. The red probe from the multimeter goes to the positive + terminal on the battery, and the black probe to the negative – battery terminal.
If you do need to charge the battery, consider removing the battery from the bike first to avoid any potential damage to your bike’s electrical system. Smart chargers are a good investment. They charge slowly and gently, which helps your battery last longer.
Electrical Connection Inspection
Look for corrosion or damage on electrical connections and apply dielectric grease if necessary to protect things from moisture. Keep an eye on wiring, connectors, and fuses. Make sure all connections are clean and tight.
Lighting System Maintenance
It’s important to keep your motorcycle’s lights in good condition. This includes headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Get used to checking bulbs regularly and replace them when needed. Also, make sure all lenses are clean and undamaged.
Side note: Don’t forget to be seen at night. ‘Deleting’ older amber signals for ‘stealthy’ LEDs might look cool but can you be seen as easily from behind with less reflective orange on your bike?
Suspension and Steering Components
A motorcycle’s suspension and steering system are what helps your bike ride smoothly on the street. Keeping these parts in top working order is also part of the maintenance game. Let’s chat about this:
Front forks
The front forks on a motorbike absorb road bumps and vibrations. Inside the forks are springs and oil. The forks have seals to stop the oil from escaping under pressure. We can check the seals on the forks for leaks or damage. If they’re worn, we have to replace them with new seals.
The fork oil doesn’t need too much attention on newer bikes. However, if your bike is older, chances are it could benefit from some new fork oil – depending on how the suspension feels or reacts. If you do chose to change the oil in your forks, refer to your bike’s manufacturer’s recommendations and choose a decent quality brand.
Steering head bearings
The steering head bearings live inside the stearing column and are responsible for smooth side-to-side handlebar movement. Over time, they can wear out, causing the steering to feel rougher. Consider checking them if you have steering issues. If they’re worn, replace them with new bearings. I personally would consider asking a professional bike shop to do this.
Rear suspension
The rear suspension, with shock absorbers or a single shock absorber plus linkages, also ensures a comfortable ride and traction to the road via the rear of the bike. Check these parts, too, for wear, leaks, or damage. If shock absorbers are worn or leaking, service or replace them for better performance and safety. Consider upgrading the rear suspension components if you want to improve your ride.
Please follow your bike’s or component manufacturer’s maintenance guides when installing new parts.
Seasonal Maintenance Considerations
As the seasons change, so do the needs for your motorcycle. Each season brings its own challenges, from winter storage to summer heat..
Winter Storage Preparation
When the riding season ends, prepare your bike for winter. This means stabilising the fuel, removing the battery, and protecting it from moisture. Without proper care, rust, dust, and damage can occur.
To keep your bike safe, consider these options:
- Use a motorcycle cover to protect against dust and moisture.
- Store it in a carport for shelter and easy access.
- Rent a storage unit for strong protection against the elements and theft.
- Dealerships offer storage services with maintenance, like fuel stabiliser and inspections.
Spring Revival Procedures
As the weather warms up, it’s time to wake up your motorcycle. Spring revival includes inspections, fluid changes, and checking tyre pressure. Regular tyre checks prevent flat spots and tyre wear.
Follow these steps to get your bike ready for the season:
- Do a thorough inspection for damage or wear.
- Change the engine oil and filter, and other fluids.
- Clean and replace the air filter if needed.
- Check and adjust the tyre pressures.
- Test the battery and recharge or replace it if necessary.
Summer Heat Management
Summer heat can harm your motorcycle. Monitor the engine temperature, keep coolant levels right, and check the cooling system. Sunlight can also cause damage to paint, seats, and tyres.
To protect your bike from summer heat, try these tips:
- Park in the shade to avoid direct sunlight.
- Use a cover to shield from the sun.
- Regularly check and top up the coolant level.
- Look for leaks or damage in the cooling system and fix them quickly.
- Apply wax or sealant to protect the paintwork, chrome and other surfaces.
By following these seasonal tips, your motorcycle should be good to go all year round.
Troubleshooting Common Mechanical Issues
Even with regular motorcycle maintenance, mechanical problems can happen. Issues like starting troubles, rough idling, and brake problems can arise.
Engine Problems
Starting Issues
If your bike won’t start, first check the battery. Often times a bad or flat battery is the issue. Charge the battery and see if it keeps its charge overnight. If not, replace the battery. Other common electrical-related issues can relate to having a blown fuse. So, consider checking any fuses if things like lights or electric components fail to work.
Preventive Maintenance
They say prevention is better than cure. To lessen the risk of issues, please follow your bike manufacturer’s maintenance schedule and try to fix problems early before they get worse. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing issues early, you can keep your motorcycle running smoothly and avoid more serious mechanical problems down the road.
Professional Service vs DIY Maintenance
Today, we’ve discussed the concept of getting to master motorcycle maintenance yourself. The appeal for many being that DIY maintenance can save us money and reward us with a sense of achievement. However, many riders prefer professional service for its expertise and convenience.
Professional services give you access to skilled mechanics. They have the knowledge and tools and hopefully experience for complex repairs. These services also have set costs, so you shouldn’t face unexpected bills. Plus, regular maintenance helps prevent problems by catching them early. When it comes time to sell your bike, a new buyer will probably prefer to have maintenance receipts from a professional garage or service centre.
DIY maintenance has its own advantages. It can save you money on simple tasks like oil changes. You can also make your motorcycle your own by customising it. Plus, doing repairs yourself can teach you mechanical skills.
In the end, the choice between professional service and DIY maintenance depends on what you value most. Whichever way we choose to go, taking regular care of our bikes is key.
Service logs / Maintenance Records
After spending all of that money and/or doing all of that work, we need something to show for it. Keeping an accurate service log or maintenance record will help your bike keep its value higher over time. By documenting your service history, you also have current info with which to troubleshoot any new issues.
As mentioned earlier, having a good service log is great when selling your bike, as we all appreciate seeing a detailed maintenance history come with any new bikes we buy.
Warranty Maintenance Requirements
Many bikes need regular maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Skipping these services can mean you have to pay for repairs yourself. Keeping detailed records shows you’ve followed the manufacturer’s schedule, protecting your warranty.
Digital Maintenance Tracking
Today, tracking your bike’s maintenance is easy with digital tools. Apps and online platforms let you log services, set reminders, and store documents. These tools make keeping records simple and ensure you have your bike’s history safe, even if you lose physical records.
Using digital tools for maintenance tracking offers many benefits. You can get automatic mileage tracking, reminders, and you can conveniently store receipts online. This makes keeping records easier and keeps your motorbike’s history safe in the event of losing any physical documents.
Advanced Maintenance Techniques
As you get better at basic bike care, you might want to try more advanced stuff like upgrading the exhaust system, remapping the ECU for more power, or trying numerous other performance upgrades.
Upgrading the suspension is quite a popular option nowadays. It can improve the ride of your bike on the track or make it more comfortable on the street. But, it takes patience and the right advice to get it set up and dialed in for each rider. When done correctly, upgraded suspension can make for a more compliant ride and/or a less sensitive back end (back wheel sliding out). This is what Yamaha did with the 2023 refresh of the Niken GT.
Öhlins is a popular suspension brand upgrade in the motorcycle world. The company has a race-proven heritage and many riders and motorbike manufacturers choose Öhlins shocks for their premium models.
Conclusion
Learning to maintain your motorcycle is a journey that never ends. It needs dedication, a keen eye for detail, and a desire to keep learning. By understanding the basics and sticking to a maintenance routine, you can keep your bike running smoothly for many years.
Regular checks on tyres, brakes, and fluids are key. Each part plays a role in your bike’s performance and safety. Keeping your motorcycle in good condition boosts your confidence on the road and gives you peace of mind.
When your bike is well-maintained, you can enjoy riding more. Remember, the front brake should handle 70% of the braking, and the rear 30%. Always check and replace brake pads when they wear out to stay safe.
Getting into motorcycle maintenance can make your rides more rewarding. It’s important to wear the right gear, follow safe distances, be careful at crossroads, and be seen out there! By mastering maintenance and riding safely, you can ride with confidence and a smile.
Comfort zone
Advanced bike maintenance is a little out of my comfort zone and experience level. Be careful with any difficult jobs, plus bike upgrades or mods which are not documented in your owner’s manual.
There are some really cool custom bikes and bike parts out there which require their own type of maintenance, and I know it can be very rewarding to really tweak your bike to your liking. Fortunately, there are online groups and motorcycle communities that can advise you. Please ask the professionals for guidance.
FAQ
How often should I change my motorcycle’s oil?
Change your motorcycle’s oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or once a year. Check your owner’s manual for the exact interval for your bike.
What are the main tools I need for basic motorcycle maintenance?
You’ll need socket sets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and a chain breaker. Also, a tyre pressure gauge and torque wrench are important. You might need more tools for specific jobs.
How do I know when my motorcycle tyres need to be replaced?
Look for wear, damage, and foreign objects on your tyres. Use wear indicators or a gauge to check tread depth. Replace tyres when the tread is down to 2/32 inch or if they are older than 6 years.
What should I do to prepare my motorcycle for winter storage?
Clean your motorcycle and fix any issues first. Stabilise the fuel and remove the battery. Store it in a cool, dry place with a breathable cover.
How often should I lubricate my motorcycle’s chain?
Lubricate your chain every 300 to 600 miles or in wet or dusty conditions. Always check your owner’s manual for the best schedule.
What should I check before each ride to ensure my motorcycle is safe?
Do a pre-ride inspection before each ride. Check tyre pressure, brakes, chain, lights, and fasteners. Make sure the throttle and clutch work well and there are no leaks.
When should I consider taking my motorcycle to a professional for service?
Some repairs need a pro. Tasks like engine rebuilds or electrical work require special tools and knowledge. If you are unsure or not confident, get a mechanic’s help.
How can I keep track of my motorcycle’s maintenance history?
Use a service log or app to record maintenance. Note the date, mileage, and tasks done. This helps when selling, warranty issues, or planning further maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- Regular motorcycle maintenance is key for best performance, safety, and longevity.
- Important tasks include oil changes, tyre care, chain lubrication, and brake checks.
- Ignoring maintenance can cause poor fuel efficiency, less power, breakdowns, or accidents.
- A systematic approach helps you manage most aspects of motorcycle health.
- Knowing the basics and making a regular checklist will help you beome a maintenance master.
- Refering to your bike’s owner’s manual for guidance is a priority.
Your motorcycle owner’s manual is your best friend
Please refer to your motorcycle owner’s manual and manufacturer’s recommendations to stay safe when maintaining your particular motorbike.
Closing thoughts
Consider carrying a digital version of your bike’s manual for quick repairs. I seized the engine on my first bike, a Suzuki GS125 ES. It needed a new piston and valves. I’m not sure if it was a maintenance issue on my part. It did have a rather spirited rider before me! Have you had any maintenance issues before with any of your motorbikes? Thanks for reading! (Back to top)