Motorcycle Maintenance Tips

A person performing a motorcycle inspection in their garage as a part of their motorcycle maintenance routine

Motorcycle Maintenance Tips from Northern Power Sports

Fairbanks, AK

As a motorcycle enthusiast, you know how many thrilling experiences await you. If you want to keep enjoying these adventures on the open road, it’s important that you brush up on your motorcycle maintenance skills. Northern Power Sports has gathered some important details to get you started. Read on to learn more, then visit our dealership in Fairbanks, Alaska.


Visual Inspection

You see your bike often enough, so what good would a visual inspection do? You’d be surprised. This is a great way to start your motorcycle maintenance routine as you’ll be able to spot anything unusual. Remember that each part of your bike gradually wears with time. Therefore, you should take some time to visually inspect your motorcycle from top to bottom. If you find something out of the ordinary, be sure to address it.


Tires

A person checking their tire tread on their motorcycle in their garage as part of their motorcycle maintenance routine

One of the most important motorcycle maintenance tips to keep in mind has to do with your tires. They need to have enough tread to provide you with sufficient traction. It’s only natural for the tread to wear down over time, which is why your tires will eventually need replacing. Consult your owner’s manual to check and see how low the read can get before a replacement is needed.


You should also get in the habit of using a tire pressure gauge to check the psi level. This will tell you if you have proper traction while also helping you avoid blowouts due to low pressure. The owner’s manual will provide you with information regarding the psi level, so follow that whenever you’re checking the pressure and adjust the levels as needed.


Brakes

Your brakes are responsible for keeping you in control of your bike. After all, you’ll need to be able to stop your motorcycle if there’s danger ahead. Check both the front and rear brake fluid reservoirs. If they’re lower than they should be, top them off as needed. If you find them to be empty, there’s a bigger issue that needs to be addressed.

Another motorcycle maintenance tip is to check your brake pads. They should be wearing smooth and evenly. If you find corrosion or other abnormally rough textures, it might be time to replace the brake pads. Any vibrating, shaking, or grinding when braking could also mean it’s time for a replacement.


Fluids & Filters

Your fluid levels need to be checked as well. Examine the fuel level and fuel filter regularly. If the filter is clogged, this can cause major engine problems. Not to mention that you won’t get far without a full tank of fuel. Be sure to use the proper fuel. For occasional riding, a higher octane fuel is best. Ethanol-heavy fuels can be corrosive if they sit for too long.

Your oil keeps the engine cool and lubricated, so check this fluid level during your motorcycle maintenance routine. Use a dipstick to confirm there’s enough oil and that it’s the correct texture and color. If it’s sludgy or dark, it may be time for an oil change. If so, this is also a good time to change the oil filter. Otherwise, you can simply top off and be on your way.

We hope these motorcycle maintenance tips have been helpful. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us at Northern Power Sports. You’ll find us in Fairbanks, Alaska, near North Pole and College.

Contact Northern Power Sports

Let us find you the right equipment for your outdoor space. Please feel free to contact us at (907) 452-2762 or stop in today!