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DIY Motorcycle Maintenance

Jul. 26 2023 Maintaining A Motorcycle By Cycle World

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If your motorcycle is in need of a little TLC, you might want to spruce it up as a DIY project! Performing your own motorcycle maintenance is a rewarding and cost-effective way to care for your motorcycle. So, what type of work can you perform on your motorcycle? Read on to find out:

Adjust Tire Pressure

Checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure on your motorcycle is an easy motorcycle maintenance project. To check the tire pressure, simply put an air pressure gauge into the valve stem and check that the reading is aligned with the recommended tire pressure in your owner's manual. If the air pressure needs to be adjusted, use a home air compressor or a gas station air compressor. But, be careful not to over-inflate any of the tires. 

Clean the Chain

Chains used in current motorcycles do not need to be cleaned as often as the chains in older models. Check your owner's manual to see how often you should be cleaning your chain. You can also clean the chain when it begins to look dirty or rusty. Use a brush with gentle bristles to remove hidden grime. After you are finished cleaning, make sure to lubricate the chain properly to avoid any possible issues.

Brakes and Oil Maintenance

Fluid levels are important to maintain in your break and oil systems. For your brakes, you will need to check both the front and rear brake reservoirs to make sure that everything looks alright. As for the oil, check this by using the dipstick to make sure the oil is a dark brown color.  If you spot any metallic shavings or powder in the mixture, it’s a sign that your engine parts are grinding together.

You also need to regularly check the brake pads. They should be worn evenly and smoothly. Replace them if they get rough or corroded or if you notice grinding while braking. 

If you’re ready to try some DIY motorcycle maintenance on your own motorcycle, check out all the great motorcycles and products at Cycle World in Virginia Beach, Virginia. We proudly serve those in Chesapeake, Norfolk, and surrounding areas.