Used Motorcycle Maintenance Guide

Buying a used motorcycle is an excellent way to get all the style and performance you crave in a bike but at a much lower price tag. However, pre-owned models have already been ridden, which means extra wear and tear on your motorcycle. This translates to needing more attention in terms of regular maintenance than new bikes. Learning how to enjoy and complete basic maintenance on your used motorcycle is an important part of ownership, which is why we’ve crafted this brief guide to help you get started. Read on for more information or visit Biggs Harley-Davidson in San Marcos, CA, where we carry a wide selection of pre-owned motorcycles for sale.

Consult Your Manual

Before performing any maintenance tasks, you’ll want to review the owner’s manual of your motorcycle. We can give you lots of general tips that should apply to most bikes, but the only place you’re going to find specific information on your model is in the manual. If you don’t have your manual, or can’t find it, visit the manufacturer’s website for a downloadable copy.

Preventative Upkeep

Whether you’re headed for a short ride into town or on a long cross-country trip, every journey you take on your motorcycle should begin with a pre-ride inspection. Not only is this a relatively quick and simple process, but it also ensures you’ll have a safe, smooth ride. You should always take the time to look over your bike and confirm that everything is functioning correctly.

Remember to keep up with regular motorcycle maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire pressure checks, examining your battery, tightening belts and chains, and adding coolant. This will all go a long way towards ensuring that your bike is in peak condition for your next ride. If you’re due for an oil change or your tires are worn, make sure to replace these as soon as possible! Don’t ride on a bike that might let you down. If you happen to come across an issue, it’s critical to address it before you hit the road.

Air Filter Maintenance

Most people remember to take care of the air filter in their car but they often forget to do the same for their motorcycle. If you ride around with a dirty air filter in your bike, it has to work much harder to keep going at the same pace as before. This lowers the fuel economy of your machine. Keeping the air filter clean should be a part of your regular DIY motorcycle maintenance. 

Maintain the Engine

This is an obvious step for improving the fuel efficiency of your used motorcycle. Engine problems can quickly drag the fuel economy down. Be wary about any performance issues, vibrations, or odd sounds. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, bring your motorcycle into Biggs Harley-Davidson and we’ll whip it into shape for you.

Lights

Believe it or not, your lights are just as important as the other components. You’ll want to confirm they’re all functioning properly and aren’t in need of a replacement. Check the brake lights, headlights, and turn signals. In addition to checking the functionality, you should also confirm that all the lights are bright and visible. Check the glasses and wipe away any dirt or mud that might be stuck on there.

We hope that this guide has been useful. If you need any maintenance help, bring your used bike to Biggs Harley-Davidson in San Marcos, California. Our expert staff can get your used motorcycle running like new. We proudly serve all those in San Diego and Oceanside, so get in touch with us today!