For some people, a bike is not just a vehicle; it becomes a part of their daily life, especially for the middle class. Whether you ride your bike in the crowded city every day or enjoy a weekend ride on the highway, proper care of the bike maintains its shine and performance for a long time.
The good news is that keeping the bike in good condition is not a big hassle. By taking care of some simple things and taking some time, you can always keep your bike as new. In this article, we will tell you some easy and practical bike maintenance tips, which will make your ride more fun and safe.
Proper maintenance not only increases the life of the bike but also saves petrol and keeps you safer on the road. Sometimes small things, like cleaning the chain, checking the tire pressure, or checking the condition of the brakes, can save a big problem. So let’s know how you can keep your bike ready to ride at all times. All these tips are so easy that you can do them at home.
Check 10 Bike Maintenance Tips and Guide:
Why bike maintenance is important
Taking care of your bike does not only mean keeping it shiny, but it also makes your ride smooth, safe, and money-saving. If you take care of your bike from time to time, its parts do not break down quickly, which can save you from big expenses. For example, if you lubricate the chain on time or keep the tyre pressure right, then there will be no problems on the way.
Apart from this, maintenance is also very important for your safety. If the brakes are not in good condition or the tyres are worn out, they can be life-threatening. Therefore, taking some time to check the bike is a wise thing to do, and it shows that you are a responsible rider.
Why is it important to keep the chain clean and lubricated
The chain of the bike transfers the power of the engine to the wheels, so if the chain is not working properly, the performance of the bike will be affected. Due to dust, mud, and rain, dirt accumulates on the chain, which makes it stiff and causes problems with running.
It is good to clean the chain every 300–400 km. For this, use an old brush and chain cleaner spray so that all the dirt is removed. After cleaning, apply a little lubricant so that the chain runs smoothly and does not rust. Keep in mind, applying more lubricant can cause more dust to stick, so maintain a balance. If your bike has an O-ring chain, then use a special lubricant for it so that its life is increased.
Tire care to keep your ride fun and safe
The tyre is the only part that is directly connected to the road. If the tyre is under-inflated or over-inflated, or worn out, the fun of your ride can be spoiled, and the risk can also increase. It is a good habit to check the tyre pressure every week. Follow the pressure mentioned in your bike’s manual because the wrong pressure can spoil the bike’s balance.
Also, keep checking if there are any cuts or cracks in the tyre. If the tread of the tyre is completely worn out, get it replaced immediately. Check the tyre before going on a long ride, as pressure can change due to high load and speed.
A brake check is a must because safety comes first
Brakes are the most important safety feature of a bike. If the brakes are not working properly, the risk of accidents increases a lot. Check the thickness of the brake pads every month. If they have become thin, they should be replaced immediately.
If your bike has disc brakes, then also check if there are any scratches or dirt on the disc. Keep checking the level and quality of the brake fluid. If the fluid looks dirty or has decreased, then get it checked at the service center. If there is any strange sound while applying the brakes or the brake feels soft, then immediately go to the mechanic. This small attention can save your life and the lives of others.
Engine oil: A key part of your bike’s health
Engine oil helps the engine run cool and smoothly. If the oil becomes dirty or the quantity reduces, the engine performance will be affected. It is good to change the oil every 2000–3000 km. Use the oil grade mentioned in your bike’s manual, as the wrong oil can damage the engine. Use a dipstick to check the oil and top it up if the level seems low.
In older bikes, it is necessary to check the oil every 1500 km. Use a good oil, like Castrol or Motul, which will also increase the life of the engine and keep the ride smooth.
Taking care of batteries and lights is equally important
It is also very important to keep the bike’s battery and lights in good condition. If the battery is weak, there may be a problem starting the bike. Clean the battery terminals every month. If rust is visible on it, clean it by mixing baking soda and water. If your bike does not have a maintenance-free battery, do not forget to put distilled water in it. Keep checking the headlights, indicators, and horn as well. If any of these is not working properly, get it repaired as soon as possible.
If you are not going to use the bike for some time, then disconnect the battery. This will make the battery last longer, and there will be no problem in starting the bike again.
Bike maintenance is not a big task. Just keep checking things like chain, tyres, brakes, oil, and battery regularly. These small things will help your bike to give better performance, make your ride safer, and also save money. So, start following these easy tips from today and always keep your bike in great condition. How did you like these tips? Please tell us by commenting below, and also share it with your friends.
