Some ride bikes for commuting, some do it simply for recreation. However, irrespective of the purpose, one must always take care of his/her two-wheeler. A well-maintained motorcycle will be more efficient and give consistent high-quality performance. It is also safer to ride. So, here are a few bike maintenance tips to help you ensure that you enjoy a glitch-free ride.
Bike Maintenance Tips to Increase the Longevity of Your Two Wheeler
1. Follow the Bike Manual
Everyone gets a manual along with the bike that lists information about every component of your two-wheeler and how to operate and take care of the same. As a bike owner, it is necessary to go through this manual. The manual introduces you to every part of your bike and its maintenance schedule. It gives you maintenance suggestions on oil type, service procedures, etc. It is important that you read the manual thoroughly and follow the instructions.
2. Regularly Change Engine Oil
A smooth or a bumpy ride depends on the engine oil. Checking your engine oil on a regular basis is extremely crucial because the oil not only lubricates but also keeps the engine cool as the heat generated during the combustion process can lead to wear and tear of the engine parts. While dirty oil will reduce the capacity of fuel consumption and the engine’s life, if the acidity of the oil rises, it will cause internal corrosion. Along with the quality and quantity of the engine oil, always check for any possible oil leakages. The presence of carbon deposits can thicken the oil that may create a drag in the movement of engine internals. Thus, it is important to keep a check on your engine oil.
3. Maintain Air Pressure in Tyres
Investigate the tyre for scrapes and cuts; otherwise, these will cause the air to blow away at short intervals. If you frequently ride your bike on the city outskirts where roads are in poor condition, or if your bike is older, there is a chance that threads will come out of the tyre. Proper threads are essential in the bike tyres to maintain grip on the road while applying brakes. Riding a bike with worn-out tyre thread will cause your two-wheeler to skid, resulting in an accident.
Along with checking the tyre condition, keep the tyres at the right pressure level as recommended by the manufacturer. When bikes run on low tyre pressure, they give you a low fuel economy. Similarly, riding with overinflated tyres increases the risk of a tyre bursting. You can get it checked at any gas station or do it yourself with a reliable gauge on a weekly basis. Also, do not forget to replace your bike tyres as suggested in the manual or by the service centre.
4. Keep Air Filters Clean
There is no dearth of dust on Indian roads and that is why air filters of your bike get clogged. It is necessary to keep the air filters clean at all times if you want good efficiency and get them changed at recommended intervals.
5. Lubricate the Chain Links
The two-wheeler’s chain needs regular lubrication, cleaning, and adjustment. You can apply paraffin to clean the chain. You should use a piece of cloth and a soft brush to clean instead of washing the chain with water as it could rust the chain links. For lubrication, you can use engine oil. Make sure your bike’s chain has the proper tension and free play, as any variation will not power the rear wheel smoothly.
Also Read: 10 Bike Safety Tips to Ensure You Have a Safe Ride
6. Take Care of Brakes
Hitting the brake at the right time can save you from fatal injuries. So, keep both the brakes holding the tyre properly spaced with brakes being neither too tight nor too loose. With time, the brake pads wear out and you have to replace them if the screeching sound persists. Another vital part is checking the brake fluid. Top up the brake fluid once in a few months.
7. Regularly Service Your Bike
A bike service is like a health check-up where everything from the clutch to the battery is inspected. Once examined, some parts are either replaced or repaired to reinstate the optimum outcome. Weather plays a big role in the performance of your bike. Both extreme heat and cold or flooded roads can be detrimental to not just the efficiency of the bikes but the condition of the bike parts. For the sake of smooth functioning, long life, and your own safety, take your bike to the service centre for regular checks. Regular servicing also reduces the chances of any mechanical issue.
Some Other Tips for Bike Maintenance
Clutch Adjustment
Another two-wheeler maintenance tip is to adjust the clutch properly. You need to change gears using the clutch every few minutes or seconds while riding the bike. Thus, if your clutch does not have enough free play and is overtightened, suddenly applying them can cause your vehicle to skid. This would result in significant damage to the bike purchased using a
two-wheeler loan. In addition, poor clutch adjustment consumes more fuel, regardless of your bike’s fuel-efficiency.
Cleaning the Surface
When following motorcycle maintenance tips, never overlook the importance of regular cleaning. Many bikers take the wrong approach when cleaning their vehicle, which results in damage to its paint and a dull appearance.
Before you start cleaning your bike at home, cover the silencer, switch unit, and HT Coil with a plastic sheet. Avoid using shampoo for a bike wash. When soaking in the water, use a microfiber cloth. Following this procedure will keep the bike’s shine intact while saving its electrical components from damage due to water splash.
Also Read: 5 Brilliant Ways to Cut Costs When Commuting on a Bike
Maintain Battery
The battery in your bike oversees the smooth operation of all its electrical components and the electric start function. If the battery is in good condition, the bike's horn, headlights, and indicators will function properly. Check that the wires from the battery are properly connected to the other component wires on a regular basis. Also, before going on a long ride, make sure that the bike’s battery is fully charged.
If you have any plan on not using your bike for a long due to any reason, disconnect the battery from the vehicle to avoid any possible damage.
Park Properly
Never leave your bike in direct sunlight for an extended period of time. It will slowly deplete the fuel in your bike, reducing mileage. It also has a negative impact on the bike’s paint, causing your bike to lose its lustre. Always park your bike under a tree or in a covered parking lot. This is one of the most essential tips for the maintenance of a bike.
Conclusion
A properly maintained two-wheeler is a rider’s delight as it guarantees a safe, reliable and comfortable commute. Also, if you ever feel like selling it, it will fetch you good resale value. While you must clean the bike often to keep it shiny, the above-mentioned points will help you keep it functioning smoothly. A motorcycle says a lot about its rider, so make sure that your bike is putting in a good word for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Often Should I Check My Two-Wheeler's Tyre Pressure?
It's recommended to check your tyre pressure at least once a week. Properly inflated tyres ensure better fuel efficiency, smoother rides, and reduced wear and tear.
2. What Type of Oil Should I Use for My Bike's Engine?
Refer to your bike's owner's manual for the recommended oil type. Typically, it's best to use high-quality, manufacturer-recommended engine oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
3. How Frequently Should I Clean My Bike's Air Filter?
The air filter should be cleaned every 1,000-2,000 kilometers, depending on riding conditions. Dusty or off-road conditions may require more frequent cleaning.
4. When Should I Replace My Bike's Brake Pads?
Brake pads should be inspected every 5,000 kilometres and replaced if they are less than 2mm thick or if you hear a squealing noise when braking.
5. How Do I Maintain the Chain on My Two-Wheeler?
Regularly clean and lubricate the chain every 500 kilometres or after riding in wet or dusty conditions. Ensure the chain tension is correct as per the manufacturer’s specifications.
Disclaimer: This post was first published on 12th September 2019 and has been updated for the latest information, freshness and accuracy. 
