Tips for DIY Motorcycle Maintenance

Many motorcyclists like the hands-on experience, which includes performing their own maintenance. And with a little knowledge, many minor issues can be repaired right in your own garage with some basic tools and supplies. Here are four of these issues and how you can DIY your bike’s maintenance.

• Reviving a motorcycle that won’t start: If you go to start your bike and the ignition doesn’t respond (especially after a long period of not riding), the problem is often bad fuel or a dead battery. Install a new battery and try again. If there’s still no response, drain the fuel tank and fill it back up with fresh gasoline. However, if you notice a brown gritty substance while draining, the inside of the tank may have rusted and you’ll need to flush it with an acid remover before filling it back up. Now start your bike and let it idle for a few minutes to ensure that all is well.
• Stopping unwanted vibrations: The most likely cause of unwanted vibrations is loosened bolts under the seat. To make your ride more comfortable and help improve your balance, simply tighten these bolts with a wrench. However, if this doesn’t solve the issue, you may have bigger problems involving the motor mounts, axle, wheel balance, suspension or other areas. For these problems, it’s best to bring your bike to a licensed mechanic.
• Cleaning the chain: A buildup of gunk on any component of your motorcycle can cause impaired function, which is especially true with the bike’s chain. To keep the chain nice and clean, dip a wire brush into a degreasing agent and scrub the chain while rotating it to reach the entire length. Rinse it with fresh degreaser and dry it with a rag. Then apply a lubricant to the sprocket side that comes into contact with the cogs. To top it off, take your bike for a spin, which helps the lubricant seep deeper into the appropriate components.
• Inspecting the brakes: It’s imperative that your bike can stop when need be. Check your brake pads periodically to ensure that they’re in good shape. If you notice any damages, or if they’ve been worn to less than 1/8 inch thick, it’s time to replace them. Additionally, the brake levers should be positioned comfortably in relation to your hands. Use the level span adjustment knob to make any necessary adjustments.

Keeping your bike well-maintained is essential for staying safe on the road. Another safety protocol is equipping yourself with a motorcycle insurance policy. This not only keeps you street legal, but it also protects your investment in your bike and your finances if an accident occurs.

Are you covered? Call The Insurancenter for more information on motorcycle insurance.