When we hit the road on our motorcycles, it’s not just about speed and freedom—it’s also about safety and long-lasting performance.

But did you know? Every part of our motorcycle slowly wears out over time, even more so with frequent riding. Loose components, bumpy roads, and built-up dirt can easily affect its performance.

That’s why regular maintenance is not just important—it’s essential. So today, let’s explore together how we can properly maintain our bikes and keep them in great shape for years to come!

Daily Riding Checks

Before every ride, we should give our motorcycle a quick check. Here's what we need to focus on:

- Make sure the fuel, engine oil, and transmission oil are at proper levels.

- Check for any leaks around the fuel switch, front and rear suspension, and gearbox.

- Ensure bolts and fasteners are tight and secure.

- Test both front and rear brakes to confirm they’re working well.

- Inspect tire pressure; if it feels low, inflate to the recommended level.

- Wipe off dust, mud, and grease regularly to keep everything clean.

These small actions go a long way in preventing bigger issues down the road.

First Major Maintenance (Break-In Service)

Depending on the manufacturer, we usually perform the first major service between 1,000–5,000 km. This step focuses on lubrication and tightening parts:

- For chain-drive bikes: clean and lubricate the chain.

- For belt-drive bikes: remove the belt, clean, and apply grease.

- Clean carbon buildup on spark plugs.

- Check and tighten electrical connections across the bike.

- Adjust clutch, throttle, and brake levers; lubricate if necessary.

Choosing and Changing Engine Oil

Engine oil can be confusing due to different types and brands. Here’s a quick breakdown:

- Mineral oil: change every 500–1,000 km.

- Semi-synthetic oil: every 1,000–1,500 km.

- Fully synthetic oil: every 2,000–2,500 km.

Always monitor oil quality—if it becomes too thin or dark, change it early. And if the bike hasn’t been started in over 3–6 months, it’s wise to replace the oil before the next ride.

Oil and Air Filter Maintenance

- Oil filters are usually replaced every two oil changes.

- Air filters depend on the environment:

- For scooters (lower intake): clean every 1,000 km, replace at 3,000 km.

- For motorcycles with upper filters: clean every 5,000 km, replace at 10,000 km.

- Dusty environments require more frequent attention.

- Paper air filters are disposable, while sponge ones can be washed and reused, but they too need replacing eventually.

- Fuel filters are trickier to replace but still important—usually done every 10,000–20,000 km depending on fuel quality.

Brake System Check

Our brakes are lifesavers, literally. So we must:

- Adjust drum brakes regularly and replace worn-out brake shoes.

- For disc brakes, inspect pads and rotors and replace them when worn.

- Brake fluid should be changed every two years for optimal safety.

Suspension Care

Suspension affects comfort and stability. Here's what we need to do:

- Wipe down and clean the suspension regularly.

- Inspect for oil leaks or dust around the oil seals.

- Replace both the oil and seals every 2 years for best results.

Tire Maintenance

There’s no fixed time for checking tire pressure. We can do it before each ride or at least once a week. If the tread is wearing out, avoid overinflating. Also:

- Check tire grooves for embedded stones or sharp objects.

- Remove any debris promptly to prevent punctures.

Chain Adjustment and Care

Chain tension varies by bike and quality:

- Some chains need adjusting every few hundred kilometers, others last over a thousand.

- Loose chains reduce power and make noise.

- If the chain sags in the middle beyond safe limits, adjust it immediately.

- When replacing, change the entire set (chain and sprockets).

- After rain or washing, dry and lubricate the chain to prevent rust.

Smart and Safe Washing

Washing may seem easy, but it’s critical. Use water pressure carefully—high-pressure sprayers can damage exposed electrical parts. After cleaning:

- Use an air compressor to blow water from hidden corners.

- Wipe surfaces dry, but don’t ignore water trapped in crevices.

Let’s Ride Longer and Safer

Lykkers, taking care of our motorcycle is like keeping a promise to ourselves—staying safe, enjoying the ride, and making each journey smoother. A well-maintained bike means fewer surprises and more confidence on the road. From checking the brakes to cleaning the chain, every detail matters and adds up over time.

Have you already started some of these habits? Or is there a tip you’re excited to try? Drop your thoughts and routines below—let’s keep our bikes and our spirit in top shape, together!

A Simple Guide to Motorcycle Maintenance (Watch Before Riding)

Video by Yammie Noob