What are the steps for routine motorcycle maintenance?

The main key to keeping a motorbike performing optimally, durable and comfortable to use is to care for it. Motorbike maintenance is much more complex than many people know. Unfortunately, many people still don't know about this.

Basic motorbike maintenance

Before going further into more complex motorcycle maintenance, motorcycle users need to know some basic motorcycle maintenance. This is the most basic and generally everyone knows.

Cleaning the motorbike

Cleaning the motorbike regularly is one of the most basic motorbike maintenance that must be done by motorbike owners. Cleaning the motorbike not only makes the motorbike cleaner and more attractive, cleaning the motorbike helps prevent corrosion and dirt buildup that can damage components.

• Wash the motorbike regularly, especially after being exposed to rain or passing through muddy roads.
• Use special motorbike soap so that the motorbike paint and components are maintained.
• Wipe the engine and chain after washing so that they are not damp and rusty.

If the owner is lazy to do it, now there are many who offer motorbike washing services.

Checking bolts and nuts

Regularly checking bolts and nuts is one way to care for a motorbike so that it lasts. Check parts that are often exposed to vibrations such as the handlebars, footstep and seat.

Use the motorbike wisely

Taking care of a motorbike is more than just giving action to the motorbike. But also how to ride a motorbike.

• Avoid sudden excessive acceleration
• Do not brake suddenly often except in emergency conditions
• Avoid carrying excessive loads as this can damage the suspension and engine performance.

Oil and lubrication

Oil is one of the important parts for a motorbike. Oil functions as the main lubricant for the motorbike engine. Oil maintains temperature and reduces friction between components. This is one of the motorbike maintenance that must be considered. Changing the oil regularly will minimize the risk of the motorbike breaking down quickly.

When to change the oil?

• Change the oil every 2000-3000km or according to the manufacturer's recommendations
• Use oil that matches the motorbike specifications
• Don't wait until the oil is dirty or reduced before changing it.

Difference between synthetic oil and mineral oil

To maintain optimal and durable motorbike performance, the motorbike oil used should be according to use.

• Synthetic oil: More heat resistant and suitable for motorbikes that are often used for long distances
• Mineral oil: more economical but needs to be changed more often

Motorcycle chain lubrication

• Routinely lubricating the motorbike chain is a form of motorbike maintenance.
• Use a special chain lube so that the chain is more durable and does not rust easily.
• Do not use used oil because it can attract more dust and dirt
• Make sure the chain has the ideal tension. This is to avoid slipping or breaking on the road.

Choosing the right fuel

To maintain optimal engine efficiency and performance, it is very important to choose the right fuel.

Choose fuel according to engine compression

• Compression <9:1, using RON 90
• Compression 9:1 -10:1, using RON 92
• Compression>10:1, using RON 98

If the motorbike uses fuel with a lower octane than it should, it can cause knocking, damage the piston and reduce engine power.

The dangers of choosing the wrong fuel

In addition to damaging the engine, here are some other dangers that arise if you choose the wrong fuel for your motorbike.

• The motorbike engine heats up quickly and lacks power
• Fuel consumption becomes more wasteful
• There is a crust in the fuel chamber that can clog the injector and carburetor.

Electrical system and battery

Periodic battery checks are also part of the motorcycle maintenance that must be done. Here are some signs that the battery is starting to weaken:

• The electric starter is difficult to use
• The lights are dim even though the engine is running
• The horn sounds weak and unstable

How to maintain motorcycle electrical systems

• Try not to install electrical accessories. Such as additional LED lights.
• Make sure the electrical cables are in good condition. Not broken or open.
• Clean the battery terminals regularly. This must be done so that there is no dirt or crust that inhibits the electric current

Maintaining motorcycle brakes

Ensuring motorcycle brakes are in good condition is one way to maintain a motorcycle so that it lasts. This is directly related to the life of the motorcycle. A motorcycle with damaged brakes will cause many problems and the worst risk is an accident.

• Check the brake pads regularly. Replace immediately if they are thin. Usually indicated by a brake disc that is getting deeper. Or a 'cittt' sound when braking.
• Make sure the brake fluid is in good condition and sufficient. The oil is not too cloudy.
• Check the disc and drum so that there is no dirt or rust that interferes with braking

Motorcycle tire maintenance

Motorcycle tires should not be left out of the motorcycle maintenance list. Here are the steps to maintain motorcycle tires:

• If the motorcycle is too hard or too soft, check the suspension to see if it is still in optimal condition. The condition of the suspension will affect the tires.
• Check the tire pressure to keep it in accordance with the standard
• Replace tires if they are starting to go bald or there are cracks in the tire walls. Worst of all, immediately replace tires that are hit by nails.

How important is motorcycle maintenance?

It is very important to do motorcycle maintenance. Maybe it sounds like the steps above are ordinary. However, with the right steps, of course, the motorcycle will be more durable and more optimal. This effect will be felt in the long term. Don't be lazy to maintain your motorcycle, because the maintenance cost is much cheaper than the repair cost due to damage that is not detected early! 🚀🏍️