For every rider, nothing feels better than a smooth, effortless ride, be it once in a while or every day. Part of being a responsible rider is taking care of your motorcycle, both inside and out. While regular washing and polishing may already be on your list, taking a look at the internal parts once in a while is also vital.
And not just when something goes wrong with the bike, though of course that is also a good opportunity to get it fixed and have other mechanisms checked at the same time.
Taking the time to commit to regular maintenance or servicing of your motorcycle truly decides the quality of your ride and the longevity of the vehicle’s life. Here’s some things to look out for i.e certain indicators and practices which will help keep your bike in top shape.
Motorcycle parts
Some signs that show that you need to get your servicing done for your motorcycle can be:
Brakes
This is probably the biggest tell-tale sign that your bike needs to be serviced. If your brakes feel unresponsive or stiff, don’t delay getting the bike looked at. Also, if you hear any noises like grinding or squeaking, this could mean that the brake pads are worn and need changing along with other parts.
Gears
Again, the gears of a motorcycle are vital and if they don’t work properly, your vehicle should be booked for a servicing session. If the gears don’t shift smoothly, skip or make unusual noises, they are out of shape. Also check the bike chain and how well-lubricated it is.
Suspension
The incorrect tension in the suspension is something you should pay attention to- anything that is too stiff or too soft needs attention, including any leaks or such.
Tires
While riding, sometimes you can tell that the tires are sling grip. If so, they will appear worn down, have visible cracking and/or have punctures repeatedly. This can also cause consistently low pressure and also flat tires more often than not.
Frame
Any kind of damage, any cracks whether big or small in the frame or any of the external components are always a major indicator to get your bike serviced. Also check the nuts, bolts and screws especially on the seats, handlebars or wheels, to see if any are loose or damaged.
General Maintenance
Basic maintenance is something that a motorcycle requires on a regular basis. This kind of servicing includes cleaning, changing oils and lubrication on the chain, checking the tire pressure and pumping them to the correct inflation level. Also, inspecting the performance of the gear and both brakes should be done.
Other more intricate details can be dealt with every six months or so. This is a more thorough check, such as checking and replacing brake pads if necessary, adjusting the gears and inspecting the grip of the tires.
A more complete tune-up can be done once a year, or before any major, long or difficult ride. Replacing any parts that are necessary, including headlights, indication lights, wires etc goes into the yearly check-up of your motorcycle.
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your motorcycle reliable and ensuring your safety on the road. By following these guidelines, you can maintain your bike in top condition and ride with confidence. Establishing a habit of inspecting your motorcycle before each ride is always a smart practice.
