Welcome to the world of two wheels! Whether you’re totally new to motorcycles or you've been cruising for a while but always relied on a shop for upkeep, you're about to discover the incredibly rewarding world of DIY motorcycle maintenance.

Don’t worry if this sounds too complicated! Motorcycle maintenance can be as basic as monitoring your tire pressure or as complex as rebuilding an engine. The most important thing to remember is that taking care of your own bike is a big step in becoming a self-reliant rider, and will increase your confidence as a rider.

Why Get Your Hands Dirty?

You might be asking, "Why bother? I can just take it to a mechanic." And that's fine for the big jobs, but here’s why learning the basics pays off big time:

• Save Your Cash: Labor costs add up fast! Performing routine maintenance checks and managing basic fixes can save you a bundle over a year.

• Know Your Ride: Regular maintenance forces you to connect with your machine. You'll notice subtle changes in performance or hear an odd noise long before it becomes a problem, making you a safer, more informed rider.

• Self-Reliance on Tour: Imagine you’re hundreds of miles from home in a remote spot and you get a flat or begin to have power delivery issues. Knowing how to handle these minor snags is the difference between a great adventure and a frustrating delay.

• Customization is Calling: The path to maintenance mastery is the path to personalization. Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can move on to fun upgrades and customizations to make your bike one-of-a-kind, or at least identifiably your own.

Ready to dive in? Here are the four entry-level checks every new rider should master.

The Basic Four: Your Maintenance Checklist

Think of this as the "T-CLOC" check, but simplified for beginners. These should be done regularly, especially before any long trip.

1. Tires: The Rubber Meets the Road

Your tires are the only thing connecting you to the pavement, so they need to be in good shape.

2. Chain (or Belt/Shaft): The Power Transfer

If your bike has a chain, it needs love! Chains transfer power from the engine to the back wheel.

• Lubrication: When the chain looks dry and dirty, it’s time to clean and lube it. A good rule of thumb is to lube it up every 300-500 miles, or after riding in the rain.

• Tension (Slack): Your chain should have a little bit of vertical play (slack)—usually about 1 to 1.5 inches, but check your owner's manual for the exact measurement. Too tight or too loose can damage components.

3. Fluids: The Bike's Lifeblood

For beginners, focus on two main fluids:

• Engine Oil: Check the level using the dipstick or sight glass (usually a small clear window on the side of the engine). The bike should be level and sometimes warm (check the manual!). Make sure the oil is between the Add and Full marks.

• Brake Fluid: Locate the reservoir(s) on your handlebars. The fluid should be clean and clear, and the level should be above the minimum line. If the fluid looks dark, it’s time for a professional flush, but for now, just keep an eye on the level.

4. Lights and Controls: Safety First

This is the easiest check of all.

• Lights: Turn on the ignition and check your headlight (low and high beam), brake light (front and rear brakes), turn signals, and horn. Make sure all are working brightly.

• Controls: Squeeze your brake levers and pedal, and check the throttle. The controls should feel smooth and responsive. If your clutch lever engages too far out or too far in, you may need a simple adjustment.

Getting Started

Don't feel like you have to tackle everything today. Start small! Pick one item—like checking your tire pressure—and make it a habit every time you ride.

If you’re looking for a good guide to get started, you can find video resources for essential maintenance things from our buddy Shane, here.

Feel free to drop in to the Motorcycle Missions shop for a social night. Someone is always there who will be happy to help walk you through some basic maintenance. 

Happy riding, and happy wrenching!