Maintaining Motorcycle Parts After Winter Lockups
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Even if you cannot ride it for all seasons, motorcycles provide a great form of transportation–agile and light. The most dreadful time is when winter comes and motorcycles get locked up for weeks or even months on the garage. Whenever it is left unused, motorcycles require maintenance before being ridden again to ensure it is in its optimum working condition. First and foremost to be checked are the most vital and sensitive motorcycle parts. This includes the engine, chains and battery.
Remember that what is most important to every engine is adequate lubrication. Too much could let the parts run loose and out of control while to little would not allow the joints to move smoothly. The density should be able to keep the engine parts in a compact or unified manner but fluidity should allow it to reach even the most minor joints involved in the engine. To ensure this, change your motor oil regularly every 3 to 6 months. It is important that you buy and use only top shelf quality engine oil.
Most motorcycle owners may underestimate the importance of chains. This part may be very sensitive when exposed to extreme temperatures as it is metal and can become brittle or impede its proper engine power flow. Inspect if it is still secure, tight and in a sturdy condition.
Another frequent victim of winters or long dormant period is the battery. It would be ideal if you could store your motorcycle or at least the battery in a warmer setting or perhaps a battery charger to ensure that it does not deteriorate. Otherwise, simply charge it before using again but make sure that no leaks have formed or that everything is still in order. If you will not do this, you will surely have a poor performing motorcycle.
Other motorcycle parts to inspect include the tires, cables, spark plugs, lights, chassis, rider gear, fuel and the fluids. These parts except for the wheels, which require regular replacements, may not be as affected from winter as the previous parts mentioned but will also need a good inspection.
