motorcycle maintenance

maintaining a motorcycle requires regular tender love and care. here's a basic routine for your motorcycle:

1. regular cleaning: keep your motorcycle clean to prevent dirt and grime buildup. use gentle soap and water to clean the body, wheels, and other surfaces. avoid spraying water directly into sensitive areas like the air intake or electrical components.

2. check tire pressure: maintain proper tire pressure for optimal performance and safety. use a reliable pressure gauge and ensure recommended tire pressures. inspect tires for signs of damage or excessive wear.

3. oil and filter changes: change the engine oil and oil filter at regular intervals as specified in your motorcycle's manual. this helps ensure proper lubrication and healthy engine thru it's lifespan. use oil grades as recommended by manufacturer.

4. chain maintenance: lubricate and adjust chain regularly. clean off dirt and debris using a brush or specialized chain cleaner, then apply a suitable chain lubricant. ensure chain tension is within recommended range.

5. brake inspection: check the brake pads and discs for wear. replace if necessary. ensure proper brake fluid levels and consider bleeding the brakes periodically to maintain optimal performance.

6. battery maintenance: keep your motorcycle's battery charged and clean. check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if needed. if your motorcycle is not in regular use, consider using a battery tender or trickle charger to maintain the battery's charge.

7. fluid checks: regularly check the levels of other fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and clutch fluid. top up or replace according to manufacturer spec.

8. lights and electrical components: periodically inspect all lights, indicators, and electrical connections to ensure they are functioning properly. replace any faulty bulbs and address wiring issues promptly.

9. suspension and steering: inspect the suspension components for leaks, damage, or excessive wear. check the handling for smooth operation and adjust as needed.

10. periodic servicing: follow your motorcycle's recommended service schedule for major inspections and tune-ups. this may involve tasks such as valve clearance checks, throttle body synchronization, or other specific procedures outlined in the manual.

from riding with rusted nuts and bolts to kick starting a bike that was under water for almost 30 min instead of flushing it clean first, i'm your poster child for poor maintenance. but you don't have to be like me. i've been lucky and haven't experienced any major mishap but why would anyone take that chance?

attempts to pass off my cavalier attitude as a happy go lucky style of careless cool didn't fool anyone least of all myself. let's just say i lacked the basic discipline to keep my steed healthy and happy. and dedication to the craft of motorcycling. but i'm ready to change for the better and maintain my motorcycle by myself.

regular maintenance will not only help prolong your motorcycle's life but also your own. remember, a properly maintained motorcycle acts as your safety net while riding, which is an inherently risky adventure.

if you're still curious about my journey, here's how i play with motorcycles.