A Beginner's Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular preventative maintenance on your motorcycle can keep your machine running smooth. Enjoy fewer visits to the mechanic (and lower maintenance bills!) We put together a guide of easy maintenance checks and fixes any beginner can handle below. When you run into an issue beyond you capability, bring your motorcycle to Freedom Cycles. We proudly serve those near Kansas City, Missouri.

Brakes

Your brakes stand between you and potential disaster. They can keep your motorcycle from colliding with a vehicle that suddenly stopped or animal that bolted into your path. They prevent you from picking up too much speed when cruising down a hill. They are crucial for safe riding. Keep them running smoothly with regular checks. Is there enough brake fluid? Do you need to top it off? Are your brake pads in good working order or do they need to be replaced? If you notice any odd sounds or pulsating, it's time to take it in for maintenance.

Tires

Motorcycle tire maintenance is simple - just two quick checks. First, are your tires inflated correctly? If they are under inflated, they struggle to handle the forces pushing on them. If they are overinflated, they have less contact with the road. Your owner's manual will tell you the ideal pressure level. Use a tire pressure gauge in the morning (when tires are cold) for the most accurate reading. Then adjust the pressure as necessary.

Second, do you have enough tread? As you ride your motorcycle, your tread gets worn down. Over time, it'll get too low to provide the crucial traction with the road. Your owner's manual will tell you when it's time to get new tires.

It's helpful to know that sometimes tread gets worn down at a faster rate due to an issue. The culprits can be improper tire pressure and improper tire alignment. If your tread seems to be fading too fast, or at different rates for the tires, you'll want to bring your motorcycle in for maintenance.

Fuel

Your fuel filter should be checked regularly. If it gets clogged, it'll suck up power from your motorcycle and affect your ride. If you notice odd sounds or a struggling engine, it's time to get a new filter.

Be strategic about the fuel you use. If you are a rider who doesn't use your motorcycle often, you'll want a higher octane fuel. Ethanol-heavy fuels left sitting too long can transform into a corrosive mixture.

Chains, Shafts, and Belts

Your motorcycle relies on a complex system of chains, shafts, and belts to run power through it. These all need to be working well and lubricated well to function. Your belt also needs proper adjustment. Too tight and it'll damage the material. Too loose and it can pop right off. If you notice any of these parts not working well, take your motorcycle in for maintenance.

When your motorcycle needs maintenance, bring it in to Freedom Cycles. Our expert staff can get your motorcycle running like new! We offer service options and part replacement options. If you are looking to buy, we also offer a wide range of motorcycles for sale. Choose between a new motorcycle or a used motorcycle. Scope out the many different models to find the one within your budget. Our friendly staff can answer any questions you have and help you find the right one for your riding level and lifestyle. We proudly serve those in Kansas City, Lee's Summit, and Independence, Missouri. We also serve Overland Park, Kansas.