Motorcycle maintenance isn’t just about oil changes and tire pressure. Even seasoned riders often overlook critical tasks that keep their bikes safe, efficient, and ready for adventure. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend warrior, this checklist will save you from breakdowns, expensive repairs, and roadside headaches.
1. Check Chain Tension & Alignment
Why It Matters: A loose or misaligned chain wears out sprockets, reduces power efficiency, and can snap mid-ride.
How to Do It:
Use your bike’s manual for proper tension specs (usually 1-1.5 inches of play).
Align the rear wheel using alignment marks on the swingarm.
Pro Tip: Clean and lubricate the chain with Motul Chain Lube after adjusting.
2. Inspect Battery Terminals for Corrosion
Why It Matters: Corroded terminals cause poor electrical connections and sudden failures.
How to Do It:
Disconnect the battery and scrub terminals with a wire brush.
Apply dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
3. Test Brake Fluid Moisture Content
Why It Matters: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing braking performance and corroding internals.
How to Do It:
Replace fluid if moisture exceeds 3%.
4. Lubricate Side Stand & Center Stand Pivots
Why It Matters: Dry pivots lead to stiff or stuck stands—dangerous on uneven terrain.
How to Do It:
5. Clean & Re-Grease Suspension Linkages
Why It Matters: Dirt in suspension linkages accelerates wear and ruins ride quality.
How to Do It:
Remove linkages, clean with degreaser, and repack with high-quality grease.
6. Check Wheel Bearings for Play
Why It Matters: Worn bearings cause wobbling, uneven tire wear, and catastrophic failure.
How to Do It:
Lift the bike and wiggle the wheels side-to-side. If there’s movement, replace bearings.
7. Inspect Fork Seals for Leaks
Why It Matters: Leaking fork oil reduces damping performance and stains your forks.
How to Do It:
Wipe seals clean and check for residue after a ride. Replace if oily streaks persist.
8. Tighten Frame & Engine Bolts
Why It Matters: Vibrations loosen bolts over time, risking critical part failures.
How to Do It:
Use a torque wrench to check bolts per your manual’s specs.
9. Flush Coolant (Even if It Looks Clean)
Why It Matters: Coolant loses its anti-corrosive properties after 2 years.
How to Do It:
Drain old coolant, flush with distilled water, and refill with Engine Ice.
10. Clean the Air Filter (Yes, Again)
Why It Matters: A clogged filter starves your engine of air, killing performance and fuel efficiency.
How to Do It:
Tap out dirt or wash with filter cleaner (if reusable). Oil lightly if it’s a foam filter.
11. Inspect Throttle & Clutch Cables
Why It Matters: Frayed cables can snap, leaving you stranded.
How to Do It:
Lubricate with cable-specific lube and check for smooth operation.
12. Test the Sidestand Safety Switch
Why It Matters: A faulty switch lets the bike start in gear, causing accidental rollaways.
How to Do It:
Start the bike in neutral with the sidestand down. Pull the clutch and put it in gear—the engine should cut off.
13. Check Fuel Line & Vent Hoses
Why It Matters: Cracked hoses leak fuel or cause vapor lock.
How to Do It:
Replace any stiff, cracked, or brittle hoses.
14. Clean & Protect Electrical Connectors
Why It Matters: Corroded connectors cause flickering lights, dead sensors, and starting issues.
How to Do It:
Disconnect, clean with contact cleaner, and apply dielectric grease.
15. Update Your Owner’s Manual Log
Why It Matters: Skipping scheduled tasks (like valve checks) leads to engine damage.
How to Do It:
Log every maintenance task with dates and mileage.
Free Printable Checklist
Final Tips
Set Reminders: Use apps like Drivvo to track maintenance schedules.
Invest in Tools: A $50 toolkit saves hundreds in mechanic fees.
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