Motorcycle Maintenance

The better care you take of your motorcycle, the longer it will last. Simple preventative checks and chores can delay or postpone the need for a motorcycle repair. We gathered up some simple tasks you can do to keep your motorcyclerunning smooth and safe. If you end up needing motorcycle service or parts, visit Big St. Charles Motorsports. Our friendly staff can help you get whatever you need. We proudly serve St. Louis, Missouri.

Brakes

Brakes can keep you from a collision. Take care of them well. Always ride with enough brake fluid. A quick check of the front and rear wheel levels tells you if you need to top them off. The brake pads should be worn down evenly (and replaced when they are worn down too much). Any squeaking, grinding, or pulsating as you use them indicates an issue requiring a motorcycle repair.

Chains, Shaft, and Belts

These parts combine to make a complicated system. Its purpose is to get the power from the engine to make the motorcycle move. For this to work, each of the parts needs to be in good repair and lubricated.

The belts also need to be adjusted right. Too tight and they will strain the material. Too loose and the belt could come loose.

Fuel

Over time, your fuel filter can become clogged. When that happens, it drains power. If it’s hard to start your engine or you hear a sputtering sound, then it’s time to replace the filter.

Oil

You need three things with your oil. First, you need the right amount. Check the level with a dipstick. Place it in, clean it off, place it in again, then examine the oil level. Add more oil if it’s low.

Second, you need the right color. Oil ideally should be a golden color. When it becomes too dark or black, it needs replacement.

Third, you need the right consistency. Replace it when it becomes too sludgy. If you find any metallic shavings or powder in it, this is a red flag. Your engine might be grinding up material. If this happens, it’s time for a motorcycle service.

Tires

You’ll need to regularly check two things. First, you need to examine the tread (which gets worn down naturally as you ride). Eventually, it will get worn down enough that you’ll need to replace your tires. Too little tread reduces your motorcycle’s ability to grip the road, which makes it harder to control the bike. As a general rule, tread needs to be above 2/32-inch. But you can check your owner’s manual for the specific recommendations.

Second, you will need to check the tire air pressure. When tires are overinflated, they have less contact with the road. When tires are underinflated, they won’t be able to properly cope with the pressures placed on it. Use a tire pressure gauge in the morning (when tires are cold) for the most accurate reading.

Lights

Over time, your lights will eventually burn out. You don’t want to discover this when you’re traveling at night and need them for visibility. Test them out in your driveway. If any burn out, think about using LED lights as the replacement. These bulbs are brighter, last longer, and save you money in the long run.

As you conduct regular maintenance, you may find issues needing to be addressed by a professional. If you need a motorcycle repair or parts replacement, visit Big St. Charles Motorsports. Our parts and service department can get your motorcycle running back to normal in no time. We proudly serve those in St. Louis, Columbia, and St. Peters, Missouri.