Maintenance and tips
Find out how to maintain and look after your bike, and how to deal with breakdowns.
Customisation
Maintaining your bike
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Tyres
Tyres are crucially important on a motorbike. They need checking regularly and proper maintenance to keep them in top shape.
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Chain
The drivetrain on most bikes consists of a chain and sprockets. Exposed to the elements, they require regular checks and maintenance.
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Levers and cables
Everything is exposed to the elements on a motorcycle, so you need to keep a watch on moving parts.
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Oil
A thin film of oil is all that prevents your motorcycle’s engine from grinding itself to death. Checking it and changing it regularly is a must.
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Suspension
Correctly functioning suspension is critical to safety.
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10-point checklist
Regularly give your machine a decent check-over to make sure it’s up to the task. Here’s a handy 10-point checklist.
Dealing with breakdowns
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Mechanical failure
Major mechanical failures are rare, so when your bike engine cuts out or fails to start it’s easy to fear the worst. There are a few things that cause mechanical failure.
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Towing
One bike towing another is a rare sight, mostly because it’s tricky to do and riskier than using a van, ute or trailer.
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Punctures
A puncture is, literally, a real let-down. So, it pays to know how to attempt a roadside puncture repair, to get you to a tyre shop or even home.