Similar to a car, a motorcycle needs a proper maintenance check-up too. Motorcycle safety checks are pertinent to ensure it works and performs properly on the road.
In addition, it will also keep your bike in top condition for years to come. Therefore, here is a simple run-down of how to maintain and do safety checks on your two-wheeler.
Top motorcycle maintenance and safety checks
Tyres & Axle Shaft
The motorcycle tire axle is mainly used for the front and rear wheels.
Meanwhile, the axle shaft is the rod that rotates the wheels and supports the weight of your vehicle. Axles are essential components of any vehicle. If it is damaged, then it needs requires repair.
The followings are some signs that you’ve bent or broken an axle shaft:
- Slight wobble at lower speeds – you may feel like a light vibration. However, the vibration will become apparent if the bend gets worse
- Visible misalignment in the tyres – the tyres can visibly be seen wobbling back and forth
- Sensitive brakes – the brakes start to malfunction
Brakes & rotors
The main component of the brakes on a motorcycle is the brake rotors. The brake rotors will create immense friction to stop your motorcycle when it is compressed against the brakes.
Common indicators of worn-out bad rotors:
- Grinding when hitting brakes
- Wobbling or rotor runout
- Longer stopping distances
How to clean dirty rotors?
Make sure that the rotor is completely clean and dry.
You can spray over the front and back of the rotor with a lot of brake cleaner. After then, wipe down the rotor with a microfiber cloth. But, if the rotor has too much dirt and/or rust, spray it down with hot and soapy water and then scrub it with a cleaning brush.
Engine
Engine oil is to make sure there is enough lubrication to all engine parts to reduce friction and wear. Make sure the engine oil is sufficient. Insufficient engine oil will stop lubricating the engine components.
Thus, causing loud clunking, knocking, and grinding sounds. This can cause your rods to break.
Please ensure to perform a check-up on the following components as well: :
- Oil and filter
- Coolant level
- Air filter
- Spark plug
Swing arm
A swing arm is a single or double-sided mechanical device. This component attaches the rear wheel of a motorcycle to its body, allowing it to pivot vertically.
Ensure the swing arm is not leaking. If there is a fluid leak, the residue from the oil will reduce the performance.
Drive chain, train and shaft
Drive chain, train, and shaft are vital for its longevity and the smoothness of your transmission. Let us share what they do and how you can check them out.
Drive chain
It transfers power from the transmission to the wheel instead of a belt or chain. Here is how you can check them out.
- Lubricate it sufficiently
- Check the sprockets to ensure the teeth is not worn out
- Ensure the chain is not rusty and there are no broken or stiff links
Drive train
It is a group of parts that deliver the power from the engine to the rear wheel. Here is how you can check them out.
- Inspect belt for any other damages like cracking
Drive shaft
It connects a gear inside the gearbox to another gear inside a hub on the rear wheel. When the engine is sparked, power is transferred along the chain or shaft to the rear wheel, and the bike moves forward. Here is how you can check them out.
- Inspect for leaky seals or oil residue
Chassis
A motorcycle’s chassis is its frame. All motorcycle components are attached to this base structure which lends a motorcycle its strength and ability to handle well.
What to look out for?
- Check if your motorcycle has any strain in the handlebars and tuning parameters to ensure that it’s not rigid.
- Look out for the motorcycle wheels as they need to be straight and true
- Use a tape measure from the swing arm pivot bolt to the rear axel to ensure the rear wheel is perpendicular to the swing arm pivot
Controls/Gauges
Take a look at your motorcycle’s controls and gauges. Here is a what-to-check list:
- Throttle to ensure it rotates freely
- Clutch lever works well
- Gear shift – it should flow smoothly in and out of gears
- Front and rear brake feedback or “feel”
- Head lights, flashers, all working properly
- Gauges – ensure all the lights come on
- Check tachometer for correct functionality
- Battery – make sure connections are tight and there is no corroding
Ensure to perform regular motorcycle safety checks
So, as you come across this article, when was the last time you performed a full maintenance check on your motorcycle? If you can’t recall when that means it has been awhile.
Don’t delay or skip motorcycle safety checks. Failure to do so may put your safety on the road in jeopardy. It is important to ensure that the engine is running smoothly and at its optimum range.
While the following tips will help you keep your bike healthy and safe, remember that it also needs regular check-ups and servicing by a professional mechanic.
Bjak is one of Malaysia’s biggest insurance comparison websites, offering policies from over 10 brands. Get your free insurance quote from Bjak today!
Also read:
