Basic Motorcycle Maintenance

1. Basic Motorcycle
Maintenance
By: Ted Catino

2. Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
Theodore “Ted” Catino is an accomplished public speaker and time management
specialist who helps individuals obtain new positions and find meaning after retiring as an
interview and transition coach and consultant. Outside of his professional responsibilities,
Ted Catino enjoys a range of hobbies, including riding motorcycles.

3. Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
Like all vehicles, motorcycles require regular maintenance checks to ensure riders stay
safe and avoid expensive repairs down the road. This is especially true for motorcycles
that are used for everyday transportation. While checking the oil, brakes, and tires are
fairly obvious maintenance requirements, motorcycles have a few areas that may be
easily forgotten. The chain is one such area. Spraying plenty of lubrication on both sides
of the chain when getting gas keeps it moving smoothly, and prevents it from either
breaking or decreasing the bike’s overall performance.

4. Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
The shaft and belt drives are also important areas to check, although they normally
require less maintenance than the chain. When changing the motorcycle’s oil, it’s a good
idea to also change the shaft drive oil and check the belt tension. This ensures the belt
stays clean while also promoting a longer lifespan for the motorcycle’s shaft drive.

5. Basic Motorcycle Maintenance
Finally, check the steering on the motorcycle. Steering is important for regular car
maintenance as well, but on a motorcycle the damage resulting from poor steering
functions can be much worse. Turning the handlebars is the best way of making sure the
steering is tight while still being smooth. However, it’s also important that the steering nut
be checked and that any loose bearings, replaced.