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| Motorcycle Maintenance |
| Here are the DIY Basics on motorcycle maintenance. |
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Maintaining a motorcycle is easy and the more care you give a bike, the longer it will last. Since not all bikes are created equal, check your owner's manual before doing any maintenance. - Before each ride, test all of the lights (figure A). Also, check that your tires are properly inflated and inspect for wear and tear before hitting the road.
- It's a good idea to check your oil at each fill up. While at the pump, also look at the chain's tension (figure B).
- Each month, take a look at the motorcycle's brakes (figure C) and check the battery. In addition, lubricate the chain at the front sprockets.
- Change the oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or every three months. Perform a fuel filter change every year (figure D).
- Lastly, change the brake fluid every one to two years. Motorcycles can have up to two reservoirs. Check your manual to see how many reservoirs your bike has.
Web Extra: - Lights: It's important that all lights and signals are working properly. This is the only way other drivers can know what you are about to do while riding. It's important to test your headlight, break lights, running lights and signal lights before each ride.
- Chains: Lubricate the bike's chain with a chain lubricant spray when you fill up with gas and while the chain is still warm. Spray the lubricant on both the left and right sides of the chain, making sure to spray liberally at the point where the chain comes in contact with the front sprockets.
- Battery: The battery is a common cause for breakdowns. Monthly, inspect the fluid levels on each chamber. If any chamber is low, carefully top it off. Use only distilled water, not tap water. Tap water contains minerals that are not good for the battery. Also, look for excessive sediment or sulfation inside the chambers. Be sure to replace the caps firmly.
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