Basic maintenance isn’t something reserved for a distant workshop. They are short habits, done at home or at the gas station, that keep the motorcycle predictable and comfortable for daily use.
When these care practices become routine, riding gets smoother and wear shows up earlier — while there’s still time to act.
Chain: cleaning, slack, and proper lubrication
The chain transfers all the engine’s power to the wheel. When it’s dry, loose, or overtightened, the bike responds poorly and the whole set suffers.
- **Correct slack**: follow the measurement indicated in the manual. Too much slack causes jerks; too little overloads bearings. - **Lubrication**: apply specific lubricant with the chain clean and warm (after riding a few minutes). Avoid excess. - **Alignment**: marks on the adjusters help, but it’s worth checking if the wheel is truly aligned.
A cloth and proper lubricant solve a good part of the problem.
Tires: frequent pressure checks and an eye on wear
Tires are your contact with the ground. Incorrect pressure changes handling and accelerates wear.
- **Check pressure cold** and weekly or biweekly. - **Use the recommended pressure** for solo riding or with passenger/load. - **Watch wear**: squared center, worn edges, or cracks need attention.
A valve cap helps keep pressure stable and keeps dirt out.
Brakes: simple signs that call for action
Good brakes warn before they fail. It’s a matter of paying attention.
- **Lever travel**: if it’s going too far, something has changed. - **Metallic noises**: indicate pads at the end of their life. - **Vibration or pulling to one side**: the disc or caliper may be asking for service.
On the rear brake, a pedal adjusted too low or too high also affects response.
Engine oil: correct level and regular habit
Oil works silently, but charges a high price when it’s missing.
- **Check the level** with the bike upright and engine cold, or as per the manual. - **Top up if necessary**, using the same type. - **Respect the change interval** and replace the filter when indicated.
Minor leaks leave marks on the garage floor — worth investigating early.
Cables, controls, and small play
Throttle, clutch, and levers need free movement.
- **Throttle should snap back quickly** when released. - **Clutch with correct play** prevents slipping or dragging. - **Light lubrication on cables** reduces effort and wear.
These adjustments improve comfort in heavy traffic.
Quick checklist before riding (2 minutes)
Create a short ritual before heading out, especially if the bike has been parked:
- **Tires**: visual check and pressure. - **Brakes**: squeeze lever and pedal. - **Lights and indicators**: a quick glance. - **Chain**: very dry or overly loose appearance stands out. - **Oil**: leaks on the ground.
If something seems off, it’s better to fix it before than in the middle of the ride.
Ideal frequency so you don’t forget
- **Weekly**: tires and brakes. - **Biweekly or monthly**: chain and cables. - **At every refueling**: general look-over and possible leaks.
Basic maintenance is repetition. The simpler the habit, the greater the chance it becomes routine.
Comments
Comments are public and the sole responsibility of the author. Don’t share personal data. We may store technical signals (e.g. IP hash) to reduce spam and remove abusive, illegal, or off-topic content.