MOTORCYCLE MAINTENANCE TIPS

1. Cleaning your motorcycle

Your motorcycle condition will depend on whether you are an off-road warrior,  fair weather rider or into regular track days. Whatever type of riding you are into we’re not talking quick hose down after a ride here. 

• Choose decent bike specific cleaning products that protect the paint and frame. Don't use harsh household chemicals that can damage the finishes on your motorcycle. 
• When cleaning check all remains of grime and dirt have been removed. This will keep your bike looking great and prevent corrosion and damage to plastics, metal and paint.
• Avoid high pressure jet washers as they can cause water damage to the more delicate mechanical areas of your bike.
• Let the bike cool off, then rinse with cool water to remove and loosen any dirt.
• Use a quality bike sponge with lukewarm water to clean round the bike, and then thoroughly rinse with clean cool water. Dedicated enthusiasts can buy hot air dryers, although a good wipe round with a drying towel will remove any excess water.
• Let the engine run for a few minutes after washing to allow it to warm through and fully dry.
• As a finishing touch, you can apply a wax or detail spray to give extra shine and protection between washes. 

We have a great range of motorcycle specific cleaning and protection products 

See our cleaning products here  or visit one of our many motorcycle dealerships where we can assist and advise you on the best products for you bike.

3. Maintain your chain

Giving your chain a quick visual inspection, ideally this is best done in neutral with the rear wheel off the floor, however we know this is not an option for everyone. Check that the wheel rotates freely and that the chains and sprockets are free from rust and dirt.

Before you start anything here, make sure you’ve got gloves and suitable clothing, its a mucky job. For cleaning and lubrication its key to do the former first lubricating a dirty chain and sprocket can make things far worse and do damage. Use a specific chain cleaner and brush, always rinse gently to avoid getting water into places that will cause corrosion.

You’re aiming to get a nice even coat of chain lube across your chain, and we’d suggest cleaning and lubing your chain after a ride as it will give the lubricant a chance to do its job before the next ride. Don’t use engine oil.

5. Check Brakes and Brake pads

The condition of your front and rear brakes is paramount to your safety when riding, seized or tight brakes can lead to accidents. Simple visual inspection of the discs and pads checking the discs for cracks, scoring and glazing and pads for a good amount of depth. It's also worth looking at your brake pipes and ensuring there is no misting or fluid loss. 

Brake fluid should also be checked and topped up according to your bike owners manual. We highly recommend you let one of our qualified motorcycle technicians do the changing of fluid, but you should check your level before every ride and top up as necessary, Brake fluid should always look glossy and semi transparent.

If you have any concerns about anything related to your brakes and stopping, get in touch with your local Blade dealership for a motorcycle brake check.

7. Check Coolant

This will not apply to you if you have an air cooled bike and if you’re not sure which your is, if it has a radiator you will need to check your coolant levels.

Make sure your bike is flat and level with the bike cold or warmed up. Check your handbook and top up if required with the correct coolant there are different types depending on your make and model. Also avoid tap water if possible as this contains contaminants, distilled water is preferred.

9. Check Cables and Levers

Check the brake and clutch lever make sure they operate properly and smoothly, check the cables are free of kinks and are not getting trapped when you turn the handlebars from lock to lock.

If you think they need adjusting, contact your local Blade motorcycle servicing department for assistance.