Do motorcycles require a lot of maintenance?
The experience of riding a bike is unique, but what about maintenance? If you’ve been thinking about getting a bike, you’ll be happy with the answer. In general, bike maintenance is much easier than car maintenance. Motorcycles are smaller, have fewer parts that are easier to access, and as a result are much easier to maintain. One type of maintenance that motorcycles require that cars generally do not is chain maintenance. And the maintenance tasks they share in common are usually easier on motorcycles.
Bike maintenance checklist
Before you take your bike out for that first ride of the season, use this bike maintenance checklist to help keep yourself (and those around you) safe on the road.
1. Start with fresh oil
If you haven’t ridden the bike all winter, the first thing to do is change the oil. Gasoline goes bad when it stays in the tank for too long. Use a siphon pump to get rid of any old gas, and then fill the tank with fresh oil.
2.Change the oil
Just like you need clean oil, you also need to change the oil and oil filter before you take your bike out for your first ride. Neglecting this step can affect the performance and lifespan of your bike.
3. Check battery life
Some riders disconnect their bike batteries for the winter and recharge them every month or two. Once you reconnect the battery, you’re probably good to go. However, if it’s been sitting all winter, you may have a dead battery on your hands. If it’s a new battery, it’s OK to charge it. If it’s three or four years old, you may find that it doesn’t hold a charge, or you may have trouble charging it. In that case, you’re better off buying a new battery and staying safe.
4. Check your tires
Tires are among the most important parts of any vehicle, so they deserve your time and attention. Check their air pressure to make sure it’s at a safe level to ride. You’ll also want to know if it still has enough depth to give you enough traction. If your air pressure and tread are set, just look for any cracks or rot in the sidewall of the tire before proceeding.
5. Inspect your chain
Your bike’s chain is one of its most important components, but constant exposure to the elements can wear it down or loosen it. Check it to make sure it is still firm and well lubricated.