Maintenance Guide
Got your bike? It needs regular TLC. Here's the basics.
From the experts at RiDE magazine. Just a few simple weekly checks will make sure you keep on having fun…
- Keep it clean. Not only will your bike stay looking great, but it’s a good way to spot any damage.
- Look after your chain. You’ll be taught how to adjust a chain on your CBT, but even just a weekly clean and lube will keep things running smoothly. You can buy specialist chain cleaner and lube from your kit shop or dealer.
- Check your brakes. Look through the front and rear callipers to check the wear of your pads. Most bikes have wear indicators to help you.
- Keep an eye on your brake fluid. The little pots, one on your handlebar and the other near your rear brake lever, have maximum and minimum marks on them. Make sure your fluid is between these marks.
- Cables. Both for brakes and clutch – make sure they’re not being trapped and damaged when the handlebars are turned.
- Look at your oil. Most bikes have a sight glass on the side of the engine, others will have a dipstick. Check the oil when the engine is cold and the bike is on level ground.
- Use your manual and find the location of your coolant tank (a white bottle with a black rubber cap) also check what brand of coolant your bike’s manufacturer recommends. If the level appears low, top it up to just below the maximum fill mark. Again, make sure your bike’s on level ground.
- It’s essential that you check your tyre pressures every week. Pressures for your bike will be listed in your manual and must be checked when your tyres are cold.
- Tyre wear. Using your bike for day-to-day motorway miles can cause the rear tyre to ‘square’ – with less tread left in the middle than on the edges. This can cause handling problems and if you experience this it's time for new tyres. Stick to twisty roads or go for a dual-compound tyre to avoid the problem.
- Lights. Just a quick check over to make sure your headlamp, tail light, brake light and indicators are working could keep you safe and prevent a telling off from the police.
Top tools
Your bike will come with a little kit hidden under the seat for road side repairs. But a few select items at home will make your life so much easier…
- Allen keys – Get a set. They are great for getting body work panels off.
- Sockets – a decent socket set with a ratchet and extension bar. Try the Draper Expert Vortex for just £35.
- Spanners – especially a 27mm and 32mm – these will loosen most rear wheels.
- Tyre pressure gauge – Garage forecourt air lines are really difficult to use on bike tyres. So having your own foot pump and pressure gauge will make life easier. Try the Halfords mini digital gauge £4.99