Is your motorcycle in winter storage, but still accessible? Even though it isn’t riding season, you can still make sure that your bike is in top condition and ready to go when spring hits. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking your motorcycle to a qualified mechanic to handle maintenance, many simple maintenance tasks can easily be done by you.
Here are three maintenance tasks you can do while your motorcycle is still accessible during winter storage.
- Replace your bike’s air filters: Air filters help keep your motorcycle’s engine clean and free of debris, making them very important for your bike. Keep your engine at top performance by replacing the air filter regularly. With a dirty air filter, your bike will not be running at maximum performance. Plus, a clean air filter will make your bike’s gas mileage even better. Check out your bike’s owner's manual to see the process and instructions for installing a new filter.
- Change your bike’s oil: One of the most basic tasks that riders can do themselves is change their motorcycle’s oil. Oil is key for the engine to run properly, and it can seize up without proper maintenance. Regular oil changes will help ensure that your engine runs smoothly and has a longer life. Always refer to your owner’s manual to check for the oil type needed and any other instruction. Check out this video from our award-winning “Behind the Handlebars” series on how to change your bike’s oil.
- Check your bike’s brakes: Braking is essential to your safety on a motorcycle and you need to know that your brakes are reliable. Check your brake pads for signs of wear and replace them if necessary. Brake pads that are too worn will increase your stopping distance and could cause an accident. Your brake fluid should also be checked and topped off and replaced on schedule, according to your owner’s manual.
Keeping up on your motorcycle’s maintenance, even while in winter storage, will keep your bike running smoothly so you can ride it for many years. You’ll also be safer on the road if your bike is in the best condition possible. Don’t worry if you’re not comfortable with completing any of these tasks. You can always take your bike to a qualified mechanic to get any maintenance job done confidently.
Hupy and Abraham has been dedicated to keeping motorcyclists safe for decades. The firm’s “Watch for Motorcycles” campaign promotes motorcycle awareness through stickers, billboards, T-shirts and television commercials. Hupy and Abraham also works to inform riders of the best and safest practices while on the road through articles at HUPY.COM.
Hupy and Abraham is here for you if you’ve been in an accident. We’ve helped over 70,000 clients receive over $1 billion for their injuries. If you’ve been injured, call 800-800-5678 or visit HUPY.COM today so we can start fighting for you.
