Routine motorcycle maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your Honda bike. Whether it’s keeping the systems in optimal condition or catching small problems before they turn into big money sinks, a little preventive maintenance more than pays for itself.
At Kent Powersports of Austin, we want to make sure you have the tools and knowledge you need about how to maintain a motorcycle so you have an enjoyable ride year after year. Take a closer look at the value of following a motorcycle maintenance checklist before we get into some specific Honda motorcycle maintenance tips.
Why Regular Motorcycle Maintenance Matters
Poor maintenance leads to problems. The engine could seize after too long off the road, infrequent cleaning overworks the motor, and not topping off your fluids leads to faster wear and more repair bills. Conversely, consistently taking the time to care for your motorcycle can:
- Keep your bike running longer. Honda motorcycles are built to last and hold onto their value, but they need proactive maintenance to stay in great condition. This can help when it’s time to sell your bike down the road.
- Improve your safety. When you know how to maintain a motorcycle, you’re in less danger from blown tires, bad lights, and brake failures.
- Prevent breakdowns. If you repair small problems or stop problems in the first place, you spend less time and money in the repair shop or at the dealer.
Your Essential Honda Motorcycle Maintenance Checklist
Every motorcycle maintenance checklist includes tasks best suited for professionals, but there are still tasks you can handle on your own. Discover how to maintain a motorcycle with these four simple checks:
Change the Oil and Filter Regularly
Staying on top of the oil change schedule minimizes the risk of overheating and poor performance. It’s also an easy thing for bike owners to consider learning as a DIY task. Ideally, change your oil every 12,000 km—or 7,500 miles.
Inspect and Maintain the Chain
Check the chain to see if it has too much slack. Also, keep it clean with a good degreasing agent to remove buildup and prevent potential sticking or friction.
Check Tire Pressure and Tread
Check your tire pressure and tread routinely to make sure your bike will respond quickly to braking and turning. This is especially important before the start of winter, as sudden temperature drops will lower your tire pressure to potentially unsafe levels. Worn tread can also be hazardous on slick roads.
Test Brakes and Fluid Levels
Finally, check the brakes and brake fluid. The brake fluid level should sit between the minimum and maximum lines. You should also visually inspect the brake pads to make sure they still have enough wear material. If the wear material is low or you see deep scratches, it may be time to replace them.
When to Schedule Professional Motorcycle Service
Along with those parts of your motorcycle maintenance checklist, take your bike to a professional every year or once every 6,000 miles. A trained mechanic can test your motorcycle’s fluids, computer, and mechanical parts to make sure they’re in good condition. Some complex work, like valve adjustments, brake replacement, or suspension work, is generally best left to professionals.
Consistently taking your bike in for preventive maintenance can catch problems before they turn into dangerous driving conditions or costly repairs that keep you off your bike for a while.
Trust Kent Powersports of Austin for Expert Motorcycle Maintenance
At Kent Powersports of Austin, we know bikes. Our team of certified technicians is here to walk you through safe bike ownership or provide maintenance and repair support, including Honda motorcycle maintenance tips. We offer diagnostics, inspections, repairs, upgrades, and more. We also provide genuine Honda parts that can keep your bike running in great condition, and our team is available for routine appointments or one-off check-ins.
Schedule Your Honda Motorcycle Maintenance Service Today
Don’t wait to get your bike in great riding condition for the season ahead. We make it easy with simple, local appointments for servicing and annual inspections. Contact us today to schedule an appointment that fits your schedule or to learn more about the services and parts we offer.
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