The Road to Reliability: 10 Key Maintenance Tips for Motorcyclists
Keep your motorcycle running long and healthy with these maintenance tips for motorcycles
Motorcycles have evolved a lot in recent years with the advent of new-age technologies and stricter emission and safety norms. However, it doesn't matter whether your bike is new or old – maintaining it with essential checks and steps will only keep it running long and healthy. While some of the checks require proper expertise, here are some of the minor-level maintenance tips, which will help you keep your motorcycle in good shape:
1: Regular Oil Changes
A healthy or optimal engine oil level is essential to keep the internal components of your motorcycle engine lubricated and running smoothly for a long time. In every periodic maintenance schedule, check and top-up or replace the engine oil, whatever is required, as with time, the level of engine oil drops or the oil itself gets thicker and fails to lubricate effectively.
2: Check and Maintain Tire Pressure
Maintaining proper tire pressure is not only essential for safety but also for optimal performance. Underinflated tires can lead to poor handling and decreased fuel efficiency, while overinflated tires may result in a harsher ride. Invest in a reliable tire pressure gauge and check your tires regularly. Follow the manufacturer's recommended pressure levels, and don't forget to inspect the tire tread for wear. Replace tyres when the tread depth is less than the optimal level.
3: Maintain a Clean Air Filter
The air filter in your motorcycle prohibits impurities like dirt and dust from entering the engine. If the air filter is dirty or clogged beyond the permissible limit, the proper air-fuel mixture will not enter the motorcycle engine, which can lead to improper combustion. Clean or replace the air filter in every scheduled service. You might need to do this more often if you live in a particularly dusty/sandy area.
4: Test and Maintain Lights and Electrical Systems
Safety on the road relies heavily on visibility. Regularly check all lights, including headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately and ensure all electrical connections are secure. While modern LED lights are more reliable, they do sometimes stop working. A fully functional electrical system keeps you visible to others on the road and prevents potential issues while riding.
5: Keep the Battery Charged
Given that all motorcycles now primarily come with electric starters and powerful LED illumination, battery health has become an even more serious concern than before. A motorcycle battery usually has a life span of 2-3 years, so whenever there are signs of dying down, it is advisable to replace it with a new battery.
6: Check and Adjust Suspension
A well-maintained suspension system is key to a comfortable and controlled ride. Inspect the suspension components for signs of wear, leaks, or damage. Adjust the suspension settings according to your riding style and the manufacturer's recommendations. Properly functioning suspension enhances stability, handling, and overall rider comfort.
7: Secure and Lubricate Fasteners
Vibrations from the road can cause fasteners to loosen over time. Regularly inspect all bolts, nuts, and screws on your motorcycle and tighten them as necessary. Apply a motorcycle-friendly lubricant to pivot points, such as the levers and footpegs, to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.
8: Inspect and Lubricate the Chain
The chain is a critical component of your motorcycle's drivetrain. Regularly inspect the chain for signs of wear, proper tension, and adequate lubrication. A well-lubricated chain reduces friction, enhances performance, and extends the life of the chain and the sprockets. Use a high-quality motorcycle chain lubricant and adjust the tension according to your bike's specifications.
9: Keep an Eye on the Brake System
Brakes are your first line of defence on the road, making their proper function paramount. Regularly check the brake pads for wear and replace them as needed. Inspect the brake fluid levels and ensure no leaks in the brake system. If you notice any sponginess or a decrease in braking efficiency, consult a professional mechanic immediately.
10. Stay on Top of Scheduled Maintenance
Lastly, follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your motorcycle's owner's manual. This schedule typically includes specific tasks and intervals for maintenance, such as valve adjustments, coolant changes, and more. Adhering to this schedule will keep your motorcycle in peak condition and catch potential issues before they become major problems.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, responsible motorcycle ownership involves regular maintenance to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. As you embark on your maintenance journey, make BikeDekho your partner in keeping your motorcycle in top-notch condition. From expert reviews and guides to product recommendations, BikeDekho is your go-to platform for all things motorcycle. Ride smart, ride safe, and ride confidently, knowing that BikeDekho has your back for all your motorcycle needs.
KTM Duke 390 User Reviews
- The beast on the loose 9k driven only KTM Duke 390Most aggressive 398 cc powerful bike only driven 9000 km in less than 2 yrs. It delivers a surgical riding experience with a punchy engine that surprisingly settles into great fuel economy on long highway scratches. It just got minor scratches on tank pad else its mechanically mint. If you want raw power then this is for you.Read More1 1
- very best bikeRiding experience is too good, this bike is futuristic at this price range. looks are awesome 398 cc, this bike can handle turns very well, maintenance period is too long 30 kmpl good range as an 400 cc bike. Very well designed, engine performance is too good into 3.5 lakhs segment good option to buy.Read More2 3
- Good for beginnersI also own another 390 2017 one. I was excited the moment i saw this bike when it was unveiled.As it was packing a new engine and chassis. Firstly engine is not exciting like the older ones as they used to scare you while accelerating and brakes and kind of off on some aspects eg- While panic braking the abs makes the bike glide in some cases earlier ones used to stop on the spot like you crashed it into a wall or something Not as much powerful and raw as a 2017 duke 390.But it has its own charm brakes couldve been a little bit better and seat height on this is low so its kind of a turn off for me and also its cramped a lot. Good mileage as i get 35 to 38 on gentle riding and under harsh conditions i get about 22 to 26 Good for beginners and for the ones who were scared of the dukes earlier this baby is calm and gentle on the throttle upto 6000 rpm later on this bike turns it character from soft and smooth to something more ferocious. Also hard to gain confidence on the corners and seating is a bit weird depends on the individual rest it is a value for money productRead More5 4
- Duke 390 Gen 3Firstly break are just wow and I like the look It easy to handle in traffic. It also good for short riders I am 5. 2 and I don't face any issues in traffic and highway and it is very lightweight. Power is so amazing. initial performance is fabulous. Bike is comfortable for long too I went Sikkim 2 times, 1 times Darjeeling. On it I didn't face any issues like overtakes are easy and not problem in mountains too. Cruise control special help in long ride. Yes , of course I recommend this bike, if You are looking for bike which has power feature, good breaking, amazing handling, easy to control. For whom looking in this price range should definitely go for it.Read More7 1
- Ownership reviewBike is so smooth on highway we can adjust suspension accordingly in city stiff and on highway smooth in just few seconds we can change the suspension tuning accordingly bike produce good amount of power and the pickup is too good love with the initial performance of the bike Bike is comfortable for long rides it makes better ride with the electronics such as cruise control,and quick shifter and handling of bike is too good because of power to weight ratio is perfect bike will not feel more heavy and handling is too good I will definitely recommend this bike for those who are looking for better performance, looks and features with in this price range all this there are not much bike available for this price overall it's a perfect mixture of comfort, performance looks and featuresRead More2 1