First time motorcycle owner. Can I get some routine maintenance advice?

Answer 1

As a previous poster said, consult your owner's manual first. There will be a recommended maintenance schedule there. You don't mention what kind of bike you have, but here's a general list of things to keep on top of:

Oil changes-usually every 3K miles or so. I change the filter every other oil change.
Tires-check for tread depth and inflation, replace if necessary.
Air filter-varies widely, but clean and re-oil often (for dirt bikes) or replace paper filter.
check every bolt you can find for tightness. Spokes, too, if you have them.
Check cables for proper adjustment and lubrication. Replace at any sign of fraying.
If you have a chain drive, check for proper amount of slack, replace chain and sprockets (always as a set) as needed, usually in the neighborhood of 10K miles.
Replace brake fluid every 2 years, or manufacturer's recommendation.
Replace coolant every year, or manufacturer's recommendation.
Periodically lube bearings on swingarm, steering head, lube anything that pivots or swings (like footpegs, sidestand pivot, etc.). Steering head bearings may need occasional replacement, maybe 30-40K miles.


That's a good start, though I got into some items that probably won't need replacement for a while. If you don't have an owner's manual, it wouldn't be a bad idea to pick up a Clymer or Hayne's manual. They're available for most popular makes and models.

Answer 2

Keep the chain tension properly adjusted(if it has one), and lube the cables as well. It will probably need a lot more maintenance and looking after than your car does. It might be a good idea to keep a few maintenance items handy (spark plug, tire patch kit, etc.). My dealer hardly keeps any parts in stock, so when something breaks, its usually a guaranteed 2 or more weeks off the road.

Answer 3

Advise check in your owners manual they generally have maintenance section. If a used bike manuals can be purchased separately

Answer 4

Keep those cables clean and oiled keep the chain oiled and adjusted right the same point each side of the back wheel keep tyres at right pressures. Change oil each 1000 kilometers and check be fore each trip. Get a good lock and chain so it doesnt get pinched~~

Answer 5

Zen and the art of Motorbike maintenance

Answer 6

I have been riding for 42 years so I should be able to answer any of your questions. E-mail at [e-mail]