Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
As with any vehicle, it’s better to be proactive about motorcycle maintenance rather than allow excessive wear and tear to increase the need for expensive repairs or the chances of your being in a motorcycle accident. There are many different motorcycles on the market, and everyone rides differently. Therefore, it’s important to check your owner’s manual for specifications related to your motorcycle.
Battery
Just as it’s important to have a healthy battery in a vehicle, it’s equally important to have a healthy battery in your motorcycle. The last thing you want is the battery to die mid-ride and leave you stranded on the side of the road. If your battery is nearly five years old, then you might want to consider replacing it before you start having to deal with the inevitable issues that come with age. If your battery is still young, you want to regularly check its overall health using a battery tester or multimeter. In general, make sure to clean the terminals and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
Tires & Wheels
The tires are like the bread and butter of a motorcycle. Without healthy tires, the enjoyment of your ride, as well as your life, could be at risk. Worn-out tires are incredibly common on bikes that are ridden regularly. Some tires come with wear indicators that are set in a sipe or groove. If the wear indicator is flush with the surface of the tire, then it’s time to replace your tires. While you’re at it, remember to examine the tires for dry rot, cracks, and excessive hardening from oxidation.
Drive Chain or Belt
A broken drive chain or belt breaks could cause your engine to fail. Therefore, it’s important to examine this piece regularly to ensure it’s functioning properly. To start, look for any binding, seized links, or excessive chain and sprocket wear. Check your motorcycle’s manual for specs on tension and wear. You’ll also want to check the chain alignment using an alignment tool. If you have a belt drive, make sure to inspect it for cracks, wear, and stray cords. Lastly, check the belt tension using a gauge.
Brakes
When it comes to the brakes on your motorcycle, there are a few different parts you’ll want to check regularly. The first is the brake rotor. Keep an eye out for any warping or glazing and feel the surface of the rotor to ensure there is no scoring. Next, take note of how worn out the brake pads are. It’s better to replace your brake pads sooner rather than later. If they are overworn, you could cause damage to your rotors and increase your risk of being in a motorcycle accident. Lastly, check your brake fluid and brake lines to see if it’s time for replacements.
Before heading out on the road, you’ll also want to check your motorcycle’s fuel and air filters, fluids like the coolant and oil, as well as all controls including the clutch, throttle, and shifter. Regular maintenance of your motorcycle will help to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another’s negligence, contact the team at Rob Levine & Associates today. We will guide you through the process and get you the justice you deserve.
