If you’re a motorcycle owner, you know that keeping your bike in good working order is important. Not only does it keep you safe on the road, but it also prolongs the life of your motorcycle. servicing your motorcycle is not difficult, but it does require some time and effort. Here is a basic guide on how to service a motorcycle.
1. How to service a motorbike
If you’re planning on servicing your own motorbike, there are a few things you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to gather all the necessary tools and supplies. This includes a socket set, wrench set, screwdrivers, pliers, a tire pump, and oil. You’ll also need a clean work space, rags, and a few other things.
Once you have everything you need, the first thing you’ll want to do is clean your bike. This means washing it down with soap and water, and then drying it off. You don’t want to start working on a dirty bike, as it can make the job harder and cause problems down the road.
Once your bike is clean, you can start servicing it. First, you’ll want to check the oil level and change it if necessary. Next, you’ll want to check the air pressure in the tires and inflate them if needed. After that, you’ll want to check all the fluids, brakes, and chain.
If everything looks good, you’re ready to hit the road! If you have any problems, be sure to take your bike to a professional for help.
2. What tools do you need?
Here is a list of tools you need to service your motorcycle.
-Socket set and wrench set
-Pliers
-Screwdrivers
-Hammer
-Punch
-Chisel
-Files
-Wire brush
-Dremel
-Safety gear
-Jack
-Jack stands
-Tire iron
-Tire pressure gauge
-Funnel
-Oil catch basin
-Bike stand
-Chain lube
-Degreaser
-Brake fluid
-Brake pads
-Spark plugs
-Gasket sealant
-Zip ties
3. How to change the oil
Step-by-step guide on how to change the oil in a motorcycle:
- Park the motorcycle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Place a drip pan or newspaper underneath the motorcycle to catch any oil that may drip.
- Locate the oil drain plug on the underside of the motorcycle. Place the drain pan directly under the drain plug.
- Using an oil wrench or socket, loosen the drain plug and allow the oil to drain into the pan.
- Once the majority of the oil has drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it with the wrench or socket.
- Fill the motorcycle’s oil tank with the recommended type and amount of oil.
- Start the motorcycle and allow it to idle for a few minutes. Check the oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.
- Shut off the motorcycle and allow it to cool completely.
4. How to clean the air filter
The air filter on a motorcycle needs to be cleaned regularly in order to maintain peak performance. Depending on how often the motorcycle is ridden, the air filter should be cleaned every few months.
To clean the air filter, first remove it from the motorcycle. Most air filters are located under the gas tank, so you will need to remove the gas tank to access it. Once the air filter is removed, gently tap it to remove any loose dirt.
Next, soak the air filter in a bucket of warm, soapy water. Allow it to soak for 15 minutes, then rinse it clean. If the air filter is very dirty, you may need to repeat this process.
Once the air filter is clean, allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling it on the motorcycle.
5. How to check the tyre pressure
Before you start checking the tyre pressure, you will need to gather a few tools. You will need a tyre pressure gauge, a pump, and a way to measure the amount of air in the tyre.
First, you will need to find the recommended tyre pressure for your motorcycle. This can usually be found in the owner’s manual. Once you have the recommended pressure, you can begin checking the tyres.
Start by removing the valve cap from the tyre. Then, place the tyre pressure gauge on the valve and check the pressure. If the pressure is low, you will need to add air to the tyre.
To add air, simply attach the pump to the valve and pump air into the tyre until the desired pressure is reached. Once the tyre is inflated, replace the valve cap and check the pressure again to make sure it is correct.
6. How to clean the chain
- Park the motorcycle on a level surface and put the kickstand down.
- Spray the chain with a degreaser or a petroleum-based solvent.
- Use a soft brush to scrub the chain until all the grime and grease are removed.
- Rinse the chain with water.
- Dry the chain with a clean cloth.
- Apply a chain lube to the chain.
7. How to check the brakes
- Park the motorcycle on a level surface and set the parking brake.
- Remove the wheel assembly per the motorcycle manufacturer’s instructions – this will usually involve removing the axle bolts and/or caliper bolts.
- Inspect the brake pads for wear. The pads should be replaced if they are worn down to the metal backing plate.
- Check the rotor for damage. If the rotor is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Inspect the brake caliper for leaks. If the caliper is leaking, it will need to be rebuilt or replaced.
- Reinstall the wheel assembly and torque the axle bolts and/or caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Pump the brakes several times to build up pressure and check for leaks.
- Take the motorcycle for a test ride to check the brakes.
8. How to top up the coolant
- Park the motorcycle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait for the engine to cool down before proceeding.
- Locate the coolant reservoir. This is usually located near the engine, and will have a cap with a radiator symbol on it.
- Remove the cap and check the coolant level. If it is below the minimum line, then you will need to add coolant.
- Slowly pour coolant into the reservoir until it reaches the maximum line. Be careful not to overfill it.
- Replace the cap and start the engine. Check for leaks. If everything seems fine, then you’re done!
9. How to check the battery
- Park the motorcycle on level ground and turn it off.
- Remove the seat (if necessary) to access the battery.
- Remove the battery cover.
- Check the level of the electrolyte (acid) in each cell. The electrolyte should be at or above the level of the lead plates inside the battery.
- Check the terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary.
- Check the battery case for cracks or leaks.
- Check the battery cables for wear or damage.
- Replace the battery cover and seat.
10. How to check the lights
Most motorcycles have two headlights (low and high beams), a tail light, a brake light, and turn signals. Depending on the year, make, and model of the motorcycle, the lights may be incandescent bulbs or LED lights.
To check the headlights, start the motorcycle and turn on the low beam. Then, walk around to the front of the motorcycle and look at the headlight to see if it is illuminated. If not, check the headlight bulb to see if it needs to be replaced. If the bulb is fine, then there may be a problem with the headlight wiring.
To check the tail light, start the motorcycle and turn it on the tail light. Then, walk around to the back of the motorcycle and look at the tail light to see if it is illuminated. If not, check the tail light bulb to see if it needs to be replaced. If the bulb is fine, then there may be a problem with the tail light wiring.
To check the brake light, start the motorcycle and turn it on the brake light. Then, walk around to the back of the motorcycle and look at the brake light to see if it is illuminated. If not, check the brake light bulb to see if it needs to be replaced. If the bulb is fine, then there may be a problem with the brake light wiring.
To check the turn signals, start the motorcycle and turn on the turn signals. Then, walk around to the front and back of the motorcycle and look at the turn signals to see if they are illuminated. If not, check the turn signal bulbs to see if they need to be replaced. If the bulbs are fine, then there may be a problem with the turn signal wiring.
Conclusion
Be sure to properly service your motorcycle to ensure a long life and avoid unnecessary repairs. By following the simple tips in this article, you can keep your motorcycle running smoothly for years to come.
