A little motorcycle DIY (do it yourself) maintenance could empower you, save you money, and help keep you safe. It is always nice to know that you are the caretaker of your motorcycle. Every time you ride the bike, you have the assurance that everything is in perfect order. We have compiled a list of suggestions for becoming an expert motorcycle mechanic. 

The type of work you need to put into your bike depends on the kind of bike you have. Before getting started, refer to your owner's manual for information on where to find filters and plugs. You should know which parts must be taken off to get at them. It would help if you asked yourself the following questions:

•  How often do I need to change different fluids?

•  How much of each type of oil do I use?

•  What are the torque requirements for tightening nuts and bolts back on?

Furthermore, use a rear stand device to stand up bicycles that don't have a center stand.

1. Replace Your Oil

You must change the oil after a few miles to maintain your engine functioning properly. Please consult the owner's handbook to determine how often you need to change your oil.

You should first ride the bike for around five minutes to warm it up because this reduces the oil's viscosity so that it will drain more readily. 

Remove the oil fill and drain plugs when the engine is off, and the bike is upright to allow the oil to flow into a drain pan. To access the drain plug, you might need to remove some fairing.

Remove the oil filter as well. Removing the filter can be messy, so to prevent drippage, try wrapping aluminum foil around the engine and exhaust section.

Install a new oil filter after the oil has been drained, then refill the engine with the right kind and quantity of motorcycle oil, as directed in the owner's manual, using a funnel. 

Put the oil fill cap back on. At a bike store or municipal facility, recycle the spent oil.

2. Change Your Air Filter

The air filter keeps particles out of the engine. The performance of your motorcycle will reduce if the air filter is dirty or blocked. Although it is simple, changing an air filter can take some time.

The gas tank and other components might need to be removed to access the air filter, but this is only sometimes the case. 

Take out and replace the air filter after entering the air box. Then, put back everything you took out.

3. Preserve tire pressure and tread

Locate the valve stem on the inside of the wheel, take off the cap, and place an air pressure gauge onto the stem to check the tire's pressure. The recommended pressure will be listed on the tire's sidewall, so compare it to that value. 

Fill the tire to the proper PSI (Pounds per square inch) with an air compressor, widely available at petrol stations. 

If you overinflate, let some air out. When finished, replace the valve stem cap. 

Check the tire's wear indicator, a little rubber knob in the tire's grooves, to evaluate how your tread is holding up. 

Suppose the knob is at the same level as the rubber contacts the road. In that case, you need to meet a professional mechanic for tire replacement.

4. Replace the coolant

Remove any necessary bodywork to access the coolant drain bolt when it's time to change the coolant, then set a drain pan under the engine and take out the bolt to protect your engine from overheating, freezing, or becoming rusted. Take off the radiator cap to ensure that everything drains. 

Replace the drain bolt after the procedure is finished. Fill the system with the right amount of coolant using a funnel. 

Put the radiator cap back on and replace any removed bodywork. 

Before cutting the ignition, start the engine and give it time to warm up. Remove the radiator cap when the engine has cooled, then check the coolant level. If additional coolant is required to achieve the owner's manual's recommended level, add it.

5. Maintain A Clear Chain

O-ring chains are more common since they require less cleaning than older, unsealed chains. When the chain becomes incredibly dusty or when the owner's manual suggests it should, you should clean it. 

When you do, raise your bike's back wheel and shift into neutral to make the chain's travel simple. 

Use a soft bristle brush to remove grit and filth from the chain. Rotate the back wheel using a specially designed chain lube to lubricate the chain. 

The chain must be equally coated to get the lubrication past the O-rings and into the joint. 

Allow the chain to sit for five minutes, then use a paper towel to remove any extra lubrication.

General considerations

Read the Manual

The owner's manual for your motorcycle includes detailed instructions and suggestions for maintenance procedures. The manual is the best source to get important information about your bike.

Use the right tools

Make sure you have what you need for each task. Using the right equipment ensures proper execution while assisting in damage prevention.

Safety

Use safety equipment, operate in a well-ventilated location, and take safety precautions by avoiding shortcuts that could endanger your safety.

Know Your Limits

 While DIY enthusiasts may complete most maintenance operations, some may call for specialized tools or highly skilled mechanics. If you need more clarification, speaking with a qualified mechanic is best.

Keep Records

Keep a maintenance log to record when you complete certain activities. The record aids you in maintaining the maintenance schedule for your motorcycle.

Be Insured

It is always a good idea to insure your motorcycle. At Tennessee Auto Insurance Agency, we insure you for less. Click here to get a quote. 

In conclusion

Keep your motorcycle in top shape. See a professional mechanic if you are unsure about a task or feel uneasy performing it yourself is always a good idea.

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