Motorcycle Maintenance Basics

Being a motorcycle owner comes with responsibilities, one of which is taking care of your motorcycle itself. Even if you aren’t mechanically inclined, there are still many things you can do to keep your bike performing well. This is Open Road Outlet’s guide to motorcycle maintenance basics.

Brakes

Even the most sluggish bikes are far faster than any human. That kind of speed would be completely unsafe without a functioning brake system, so make sure you take a look next time you are doing maintenance. Check the brake fluids at both the rear and front brake reservoirs. The line displayed on the side will tell you if you are at the proper levels, so refill them as needed. Also inspect the brake pads, which should be worn evenly and look smooth. Replace them if they appear corroded or rough, or if you notice any shaking or grinding while braking.

Tires

Tires require two checks, both of which you can perform at home. First, make sure there is enough tread. Tread helps your tires grip the road, so make sure that your tires haven’t become worn down. Check your user guide to see how often you should replace your tires. If they are being worn down too quickly or in an uneven way, it may be a sign of an issue like tire misalignment. 

The second check is tire pressure. Overinflated tires won’t be able to make proper contact with the road. Underinflated tires won’t be able to handle the stress that a typical ride will put them through. Your user guide can tell you how much you should inflate your tires. 

Lights

Lights are important not only in that they help you see where you are going but also because they make you more visible to other motorists. Lights burn out over time, so check them every so often. When you find yourself in need of a replacement, LED bulbs are slightly more expensive, but last longer and shine brighter than traditional bulbs.

A motorcycle is a complex piece of machinery, and this list represents just a few of the many things you can do to keep it running smoothly. For parts or more information about motorcycle repair, visit Open Road Outlet online or at our dealerships in West Saint Paul and Steinbach, Manitoba. We welcome customers from as close as Pine Falls or as far as Saskatchewan.