Note: This article is intended for novice motorcyclists who want to learn more about basic maintenance. For advanced procedures or specific models, we recommend seeking advice from a specialist.
Proper maintenance of your motorcycle is indispensable. Fortunately, you don't always have to go to a mechanic. Whether you have just started riding or have been dreaming of your own machine for years: maintaining your own motorcycle is easier than you think.
In this article we take you step by step through the most important parts of your motorcycle. From tires to brakes and from oil to air filter - we explain what to check, how often to do it and how to go about it. Practical, understandable and immediately applicable.
Maintaining your tires
Your tires are literally your only contact with the asphalt, so you want to be able to rely on them 100%. So check them regularly! Start by checking the profile. The legal minimum tread depth in the Netherlands is 1 mm, but replace them at 2 mm for optimal grip, especially on wet roads. Also look carefully for dry cracks on the sides - especially if your bike has been stationary for a while.
Tire pressure also deserves attention. Check the pressure with a reliable pressure gauge (preferably cold, so before riding) and stick to the factory values, which you can usually find on a sticker near the steering head or in your manual. Small effort, big difference in riding comfort and safety. Read more about the right pressure for your motorcycle.
Maintaining the brakes
You can do a lot yourself to keep your brake system in top shape. Start by checking your brake pads. See if there is still enough material on them (at least 2 mm), and while riding, listen for a scraping sound when braking - that is often a sign that they are worn out.
Brake fluid is just as important. Too old or contaminated brake fluid can cause a 'spongy' braking feeling. Therefore, regularly check the fluid level in the reservoir (usually near the handlebars or under the saddle) and see if the fluid is still clear. Dark brown or almost black fluid? Then it's time to change it - if in doubt, have this done by a specialist, because air in the system is a no-go.
Battery maintenance
Nothing is more frustrating than a motorcycle that won't start, and nine times out of ten it's because of the battery. Fortunately, you can often prevent problems with a few simple checks. Regularly check the voltage of your battery with a multimeter. A healthy battery delivers around 12.7 volts at rest and around 14 volts when the engine is running. Are you way below that? Then it's time to charge it or replace it.
Is your motorcycle stationary for a longer period of time, for example in the winter? Then connect a maintenance charger. This will keep the battery in good condition and prevent it from draining completely. Also pay attention to oxidation at the battery terminals - you can recognize this by white or green deposits. Just clean them with a brush and apply some acid-free Vaseline, and you're good to go again.
Suspension maintenance
The suspension of your motorcycle determines to a large extent the riding comfort and stability in curves. Yet this part is often overlooked. Start with a visual check: do you see oil leaking from your front fork or rear shock? Then you have work to do. Leaking seals can cause unpredictable handling - and you don't want that.
You can also adjust the spring preload according to your weight and riding style. Many motorcycles have an adjustment knob for this, usually at the rear suspension. Do you often ride with luggage or a passenger? Then the suspension may be a little tighter. Are you a lightweight solo rider? Then a softer setting is more comfortable. Do you notice while riding that your bike "dives" when braking or feels restless when cornering? Then it is smart to have your suspension adjusted.
Maintaining your lights
Bulbs are often easy to replace yourself. Make sure you have a set of spare bulbs in your garage (or top case) - handy if needed. Be careful when replacing them: do not touch the glass of halogen bulbs with your fingers, as this can shorten their life. LED lights? Those last much longer, but still regularly check that everything is working properly. Finally, connect the plugs and cables properly so that you are not suddenly in the dark on the road.
Changing the oil
Engine oil is literally the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates, cools and protects the internal parts from wear and tear. That is why it is important to change your oil on time - usually every 5,000 to 10,000 km, depending on your engine and riding style. Always check your owner's manual or ask your dealer.
Changing your own oil is easy to do if you are a bit handy. You need: the right engine oil, a new oil filter, a sump plug ring and a catcher. Warm up the engine briefly (that way the oil flows out more easily), unscrew the sump plug and drain the old oil. Replace the filter, install the plug with new ring and fill with fresh oil to the correct level. Then take a quick start and check for leaks. Done!
Note: always use the right kind of oil, as engines are sensitive to it. And dispose of the old oil neatly at a recycling center - that's not only neat, but mandatory.
Lubricating the chain
A well-lubricated chain ensures smooth transmission and a longer life of your drivetrain. And the best part is: this job is easy to do yourself. Get into the habit of lubricating your chain every 500 to 1,000 km, or after riding through rain or mud. Use special chain spray - not WD-40 or engine oil - and preferably lubricate the chain after a ride, when it is still warm.
Put your motorcycle on the center stand or paddock stand, slowly rotate the rear wheel and spray the spray on the inside of the chain (near the links). Let it soak in for a while and wipe away excess grease with a cloth.
And then something else important: the tension of your chain. A chain that is too loose can strike and a chain that is too tight causes unnecessary wear. Check the sag (usually 2 to 3 cm center between front and rear sprocket) and adjust if necessary via the chain tensioners at the rear wheel. Is there a mark on the arm? Use it to adjust left and right equally. Easy!
Cooling
Your engine produces a lot of power and that means: heat. Therefore, a well-functioning cooling system is indispensable, especially during hot weather or traffic jams. Most engines are water-cooled (some air-cooled), and if your engine has a radiator, you can do some checks yourself.
Start by checking the coolant level. You do this at the expansion tank, usually somewhere under the tank or near the frame. The fluid level should be between 'min' and 'max'. Too little coolant? Fill up with the correct type (often G12 or G13, check your manual!) - never just use water. Caution: never open the system when the engine is hot, this can be dangerous.
Also visually check for leaks near the hoses or under the radiator. Do you see stains or smell a sweetish odor? Then you may have a leak. In that case: go to the specialist.
Air filter
A clean air filter is just as important as good oil - it ensures that your engine gets enough fresh air to run efficiently. Is your air filter clogged with dust, sand or insects? Then your engine is going to perform less well, consume more fuel and often sound a bit raucous.
Depending on your engine and the type of filter (paper, foam or sports filter) you can clean or replace the air filter. Paper filters you usually just replace, foam filters you can often rinse and re-oil. Look in your manual where the filter is - sometimes under the seat, sometimes under the tank - and check it at least once a season. Do you ride a lot off-road or in dusty conditions? Then check it a little more often.
A fresh air filter means better performance and a healthier engine. Small effort, great pleasure.
Drive belt
Not every motorcycle has one, but if your bike is equipped with a drive belt (like many Harley-Davidsons and some BMWs), it too requires regular maintenance. The advantage of a belt is that it's quieter, cleaner and lower maintenance than a chain - but that doesn't mean you can forget about it altogether.
Regularly check the tension of the belt. It should be tight, but not like a string - there should usually be a slight sag in it (check your manual for the correct number of millimeters). Some motorcycles have an indicator or measuring tool for tension.
Also watch for wear: cracks, frays or small stones in the rubber are signs that the belt needs replacement. Clean the belt with a soft brush or cloth - do not use grease or oil, as these will corrode the rubber.
A well-maintained drive belt can easily last 30,000 km or more. Check it out at your next inspection.
Self-maintenance: more control, more fun
Maintaining your own motorcycle is not only good for your wallet, but also for your riding pleasure. The better you know your own machine, the more confidence you will have on the road. Whether you have just started lessons or have been dreaming of your own bike for years - with these maintenance tips you can do a lot yourself to keep your bike in top condition.
Keep a simple maintenance schedule, for example per season or per kilometer ridden. That way you avoid surprises and learn step by step what your bike needs. Can't figure it out? Feel free to ask your riding school, dealer or fellow riders for advice - bikers love to help each other.
