Here Are The Five Great Habits To Extend The Lifespan Of Your Bike

Most bikers hope that their beloved bike will last a lifetime. However, since they are machines that come with a warranty period, it is nearly impossible to keep them in prime shape beyond a certain age. However, there are steps you can take to extend the life span of your two-wheeler for a few more years.
 

5 Ways to Extend the Life of Your Bike

 

• Avoid over modifying 

  Adding too many parts can put stress on the engine. While some bike performance upgrades will enhance its functioning, certain over modifications such as installing an aftermarket exhaust without compensating for the additional airflow will inhibit performance and lead to the vehicle’s rapid breakdown. Moreover, note that bike engine modification can lead to wear and tear of mechanical components. The trick is not to overdo it. In addition, the Motor Vehicle Act places restrictions on some modifications. Instead of extending the lifespan of a bike, such alterations can cause legal issues. Read on to learn more about them.

  • Exhaust modification

    Be cautious if you are changing the exhaust to get the high-pitched sound. Exhaust modifications are hazardous to the environment, and if the RTO finds them, your bike may even be seized.
   

  • Engine modification

    Be careful if you change the engine displacement to get more power out of it; you will be breaking the law. Furthermore, you are not permitted to change the nozzle size of your bike's carburettor.
   

  • Chassis modification

    If you are reshaping the chassis, be ready to pay the penalty to the RTO. 
   

  • Engine swaps

    The chassis of your bike is built in such a way that it can only support one kind or design of the engine. Other components such as brakes and wheels are also tuned to work with the installed engine. As a result, swapping engines is considered unlawful, even on vintage motorcycles.
   

  • High-intensity discharge lamps without a projector

    Such lamps have the potential to damage the eyesight of onlookers. If you are planning for this alteration, then be prepared to face RTO’s displeasure. 
   

Remember, even valid modifications should be reported to the appropriate authority. You should also check with your bike insurer to see what kinds of modifications they cover.
 

• Servicing regularly

  Find a trusted mechanic and figure out how much servicing your bike needs. The frequency usually depends on the bike’s age and the level of usage. Regular servicing will keep it functioning optimally. Besides, you need to keep a close track of the servicing history as it will help with future servicing.
   

Also Read: A Beginner's Guide for Buying a Bike

 

Here is what you need to focus on during servicing:
 

• Enhanced road bike component life span with high-quality spare parts.
• Applying a coat of anti-rust whenever needed.
• Ensuring proper lubrication of the chain.
• Changing engine oil regularly.
• Ensuring the wiring is intact.
• Keeping the engine, ignition, and air filtration in top-notch shape.

 

• Keeping the bike spotless

  One of the major reasons the lifespan of your bike is cut short is the lack of cleanliness. When you let dirt take over your bike, you risk corroding it. Both interior and exterior parts of your bike can be affected because of dirt. So, you should regularly clean it with soap water and cloth. Periodic cleaning can also prolong the life of your bike.
   

• Proper riding

  The importance of this cannot be overstated. Riding rashly can endanger your life and seriously inhibit your bike’s ability to function properly for long. Make sure that you press the clutch and switch the gear in sync. Also, ensure that the speed you are driving at is in accordance with the gear you are on. Failing to do so will overload the engine. You will also find the economical speed range on the instrument cluster. Make sure you are following the economical speed to lessen engine stress and extend the life of your two-wheeler in India.
   

Also Read: Purchasing a bike on EMI
 

• Manage the workload

  If your push your bike beyond its capacity in terms of speed and distance, it can overload the engine. The performance of your bike will be affected. The machine will breakdown quicker than you would expect. So, you need to manage the workload properly.
   

Other steps you can take

 
Other factors such as the parking spot can affect the longevity of the bike. Parking in the sun not only vaporises the fuel but also affects other components. You can safeguard the bike by parking it in a spot that is not directly under the sun. Doing so will also address your query on how to improve the bike performance. Another thing you can do to keep your bike in good shape is to purchase bike insurance. By doing this, you will be assured of good quality service at a reasonable price if something were to happen to the bike.
 
Also Read: How to Avoid the Common Mistakes While Buying a Bike on Two-wheeler Loan
 

Conclusion

Being proactive is the key to increasing the lifespan of the road bike. Make sure you act when you have a small issue on your hands. Don’t delay your visit to the garage if there is any problem with your bike. With these above-mentioned steps, you can easily keep your bike in good health for a long time.
 
Disclaimer: 
This post was first published on 13 August 2020 and has been updated for the latest information, freshness, and accuracy.