DIY Motorcycle Maintenance: Some Tips

At Customized Choppers we know how much you love your bike, and keeping it in top condition is all part of the ride. While regular servicing is essential, there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks you can do yourself to keep your motorcycle running smoothly between visits. These straightforward checks and tasks will help you stay safe on the road and get the best performance from your machine.

1. Keep Your Bike Clean

It may seem basic, but regularly washing your bike does more than keep it looking great - it helps prevent rust and corrosion and gives you a chance to spot any potential issues. Use a motorcycle-specific cleaner, a soft sponge, and microfibre cloths to avoid scratches. Don’t forget to dry it properly and apply a protective coating to keep everything in top shape. This is particularly important if you are not going to be using  your bike for an extended period, like during the winter.

2. Check the Oil

Oil is your engine’s lifeblood, and running with old or low oil can cause serious damage. Make it a habit to regularly check your oil level (especially before long rides) and top up if necessary. Check your owner’s manual for the correct oil type and grade. The oil should also be changed regularly in line with your manufacturer’s recommendations. You can either do this yourself or book it in at the garage.

3. Inspect & Lube the Chain

A dry or loose chain wears out quickly and can even snap while riding. Cleaning it with a motorcycle chain brush and applying a good quality chain lube will help keep it in top condition. Check and adjust the chain tension regularly - your swingarm may have a guide sticker with the recommended level of chain tension, or you can find this in your owner’s manual. If you’re unsure how to adjust it there are plenty of helpful tutorials on YouTube, so it’s worth spending some time learning how to do this.  Have a belt or shaft drive instead of a chain? Watch out for any signs of wear, cracks, or slipping.

4. Maintain Your Tyres

Your tyres play a vital role in both ride quality and safety - so keeping them in top condition is essential. Check the tread depth and look for cracks, uneven wear, or embedded debris. Always ensure they’re inflated to the correct pressure (something else you will find in your owner’s manual), as properly maintained tyres improve grip, handling, and fuel efficiency.

5. Check Your Brakes

Keeping brakes in good order is obviously important. Check your brake pads for wear - if they look thin, it’s time to replace them. Most motorcycle brake pads have wear indicator grooves (see photo) - if they’ve disappeared, new pads are needed. A good rule of thumb is to replace brake pads when the material is worn down to around 1.5 to 2 millimetres (the legal minimum is 1mm). We also recommend checking that your brake fluid is clear and at the correct level - if it has turned dark, it’s time to change it.

6. Keep Your Battery Charged

We’ve all been there. The first sunny day of the year, you’re ready to ride - only to find your motorcycle battery is dead and the bike won’t start. If your motorbike sits for long periods, use a trickle charger or battery optimiser to maintain battery life. Also, check the terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary.

7. Check Your Lights & Indicators

Being visible on the road is crucial. Regularly check that all your lights - headlight, tail light, brake light and indicators - are bright and working properly. Replacing a bulb is usually a quick and easy fix.

8. Tighten Up Loose Bolts

Vibrations from riding can cause bolts to loosen over time. A quick check-over with a spanner will help prevent parts from rattling loose on the road.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your motorcycle doesn’t have to be complicated. By undertaking these simple but essential DIY maintenance tasks, you’ll keep your bike running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs. Plus, there’s a sense of satisfaction in knowing your ride is in peak condition thanks to your own efforts. So grab your tools, set aside some time, and give your motorbike the care it deserves.