Motorcycle Maintenance Tips

A key part of motorcycle ownership involves regular maintenance. It helps you prevent costly issues from cropping up and keep others from manifesting into bigger problems. We've rounded up the top tasks that even beginners can handle below. For motorcycle maintenance tasks beyond your knowledge level, stop by any Windy City Motorcycle Company dealership serving Chicago, IL, Detroit, MI, or Milwaukee, WI.

Brakes

You rely on your brakes to keep you safe throughout your ride. They are used in various situations, from reigning in your speed as you cruise down a hill to preventing you from hitting an animal that darted in your path. But to do so effectively, they need to be well-maintained.

Start by regularly checking your brake fluids. Remember to check the front and rear brake reservoirs. If the fluids are below the proper levels, replenish them. If you notice the fluid is fully gone, this can be a red flag and you’ll want to take your motorcycle in for service.

Tires

Check two things on your motorcycle tires: the tread and air pressure. Tread wears down naturally as you ride, but eventually, it will get so worn down that it needs replacement. You'll find the measurements to shoot for in your owner's manual. Know that tread wearing down unevenly or too fast can suggest an issue, such as poor tire alignment.

You'll also want to measure your tire pressure. Too much pressure and the tires won't have proper contact with the road. Too little pressure and they'll struggle against the forces pushing on them. Read your owner's manual to find the ideal amount. Check the tires with a tire pressure gauge when they are cold for the most accurate reading.

Oil

You need to check your motorcycle oil as you do with your car. Put the dipstick in, wipe it off, then put it back in. If the oil is sludgy or dark brown in color, you’ll want to replace it with fresh oil. If you notice any metallic shavings or powder, this could suggest engine parts grinding together and merits a trip to the mechanic. If the oil looks great, simply top it off if it's low.

Battery

If your motorcycle doesn't start, you may just need to recharge your battery. If the battery is old, it may be time for a replacement. When recharging or replacing doesn't solve the issue, your alternator may need to be inspected.

If you're going to store your motorcycle for a long period of time, you'll need to care for your battery. Take it off and connect it to a trickle charge to avoid it draining while in storage.

We hope you found these tips helpful! When you encounter a motorcycle maintenance task beyond your ability, feel free to get in touch with us. We will be happy to get your bike running like new in no time.