Basic Maintenance Tips for Newbies

New Bike - New Rider - just a few maintenance tips!

Maintenance tips
Many general checks can be carried out by the rider/owner but there may be safety and driving implications. For guidance, a skilled technician should be referred to for help in accordance to the manufacturer's service schedule and the Owner's manual or whenever you are unsure about what to do.

(1) Fuel Line *
Check the fuel lines and the fuel line fittings for deterioration, damage or leakage. Check the fuel valve vacuum tube for damage or pinched tube.

(2) Throttle operation *
Check for smooth throttle grip full opening and automatic full closing in all steering positions. Lubricate the throttle cable if the operation is not smooth.

(2a) Electrics *
Check that the headlight, tail/brake light, indicators and horn are functioning correctly.

(2b) Engine stop switch and stand ignition cut-off system *
Check that the engine stop switch and the stand ignition cut-off system are functioning correctly.

(3) Carburetor choke *
Check for smooth operation of the choke lever. Lubricate the choke cable if the operation is not smooth.

(4) Engine oil *
Start the engine and let it idle for 2-3 minutes. Stop the engine and wait 3 minutes.
Remove the oil lever dipstick and wipe the oil from the dipstick with a clean cloth. With the motorcycle upright on level ground, insert the dipstick into the stick hole without screwing it in. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level. Add the recommended level of oil, if required.
Reinstall the oil level dipstick.

(5) Drive chain *
Warning: Never inspect and adjust the drive chain while the engine is running.
Turn the ignition switch off, support the motorcycle on its stand and shift the transmission into neutral. Check the slack in the driver chain lower run midway between the sprockets.
Lubricate the drive chain with the recommended gear oil or drive chain lubricant. Wipe off excess oil or chain lubricant.

(6) Suspension *
Warning: Loose, worn or damaged suspension parts impair motorcycle stability and control. Any damaged components should be repaired or replaced by a trained mechanic before riding. Riding a motorcycle with faulty suspension increases your risk of an accident and possible injury.

(6a) FRONT SUSPENSION INSPECTION *
Check the action forks by operating the front brakes and compressing the front suspension several times. Check the entire assembly for signs of leaks, damage or loose fasteners.

(6b) REAR SUSPENSION INSPECTION *
Support the motorcycle using a hoist or equivalent and raise the rear wheel off the ground. Hold the swing arm and move the rear wheel sideways with force to see if the axle bearings are worn. Check for worn swing arm bearings by grabbing the rear swing arm and attempting to move the swing arm side to side. The bearings should be replaced if any looseness is noted.
Check the action of the shock absorber by compressing it several times. Check the entire shock absorber assembly for signs of leaks, damage or loose fasteners.

(7) Wheels/Tires *
Note: Tire pressure should be checked when tires are cold.
Check the tire pressure against the manufacturer’s recommendations and check that the tread conforms to the legal requirements in accordance with your Owner's manual.

(8) Coolant level *
Check the coolant level and add recommended coolant if required. Check for leaks.

(9) Petrol tank *
Check for any leaks.

(10) Brakes *
Take the vehicle off its stand and check the front and rear brake systems are operating. Check there are no brake fluid leaks.

(11) Clutch *
Check that the clutch is operating correctly and that there are no clutch fluid leaks.

Nuts, bolts, fasteners *
Check that all chassis nuts and bolts are tightened to their recommended torque values. Check that all safety clips, hose clamps and cable stays are in place and properly secured.

Disclaimer
* Should be serviced by an authorized dealer, unless the owner has proper tools and service data and is mechanically qualified.

SMEG, I think you Need to add )make sure you have Gas :cow: man That a lot of shit to check? I,ll let my Dealer do all that. :headbange :bonk:

SMEG, I think you Need to add )make sure you have Gas :cow: man That a lot of shit to check? I,ll let my Dealer do all that. :headbange :bonk:

Most of it isn't as bad as it sounds on paper once you get into the habit of doing it NEWBIE. Plus, when it comes to V-Twins, if you let it go until the dealer service interval rolls around you'll have a lot of things loosen and drop off your bike. Like they taught us in the service. If you take care of your weapon, it will take care of you. I pick one day a week to go over my whole bike and I always do it the day before I take off on a long ride. So look at it as an investment in a smooth riding future trip.

Most of it isn't as bad as it sounds on paper once you get into the habit of doing it NEWBIE. Plus, when it comes to V-Twins, if you let it go until the dealer service interval rolls around you'll have a lot of things loosen and drop off your bike. Like they taught us in the service. If you take care of your weapon, it will take care of you. I pick one day a week to go over my whole bike and I always do it the day before I take off on a long ride. So look at it as an investment in a smooth riding future trip.
Yep I got a check List of Thing in the service mannal That I bought the other day. Seems everything ok I do the check on sunday before i Ride :)