Practical advice for the maintenance of a motorcycle

Appearance isn't everything! Cleaning your motorcycle is not only for the looks. It's also a good opportunity to check whether everything is still technically in order. In addition, regular maintenance of your motorcycle will preserve its value and durability. We will show you how to maintain your motorcycle quickly and efficiently in four steps, while protecting the sensitive technology.

Careful maintenance of the motorcycle

On a single highway, the wind is warm and you roar with your machine into the sunset - this is how every motorcycle fan imagines the ideal trip. To enjoy it again and again, you need to take care of your bike frequently. This includes a thorough cleaning - not only for your appearance, but especially for your safety. Because if you look carefully during the cleaning, you will discover incipient defects and can quickly make the appropriate repair. So, bike maintenance is not just about shining the chrome parts. But you have to be careful when cleaning your bike, because it's not as easy as cleaning your car. We show you four steps to clean and maintain your bike quickly, efficiently and gently and to detect any defects. In terms of appearance, it is possible to completely customize the motorcycle: wheels, stand, handlebars, lighting ... On motorcycles, all fantasies are possible. Buy trendy accessories and don't forget about safety. Look for new but affordable parts. Check out a price comparison guide for purchasing. For comfort, leather pants are ideal. Thick and insulating, in case of a fall, they provide good protection.

Motorcycle maintenance in the car wash - be careful

Bikers at heart know how to maintain their motorcycles. Although it is quite convenient to clean the motorcycle in its own passage, we strongly advise against it! Because the law does not allow you to do so without a proper wastewater collection system. That's why most two-wheeler fans have to go to the self-service car wash box regularly. But unlike maintaining a car, you need to be careful when using the pressure washer. We'll show you how: When you go to the wash box, always bring a sponge and a soft cloth or two with you, so that you are fully equipped to clean even sensitive areas by hand. Drying is an absolute must when you have finished maintaining your wet bike. This way, you won't give rust a chance. dry your bike thoroughly after each wash and use an air jet for hard-to-reach areas. Quick tip: If you want to give your car a good dose of care, you'll find plenty of useful tips in this article: Spring car care: with this checklist, your car will be back in shape.

Dead Bugs: The right preparation for your motorcycle maintenance

Everyone knows the annoying problem: after a nice ride, your bike is literally covered with dead insects. Plastic fairings and windscreens are particularly affected. But to remove bugs, there is no need to use harsh cleaners or even a scrubbing sponge. This will attack the paint and can quickly become a rust trap. Soak the affected areas with damp cloths and mild dishwashing liquid the night before you start cleaning your bike. The next day, you can remove dead flies with a soft sponge before heading to the wash box.

Motorcycle safety and maintenance: clean the chain properly

There’s no bike without a chain. That's why the heart of your bike also needs regular attention. Above all, a chain must be well lubricated. But this also makes it particularly susceptible to dirt and dust. Due to the adhesive effect of the chain grease, this dirt will adhere to the chain during each run. Anyone who doesn't clean their chain regularly, preferably after each round, and regrinds it frequently, is at great risk of safety due to rapid wear. Worn chains can quickly fall or jump - and even break. While chain cleaning is certainly not the most popular part of motorcycle maintenance, we have some tips for you here to get it done quickly next time:
  • Check the condition of your chain regularly.
  • You can easily remove light dirt with a plastic brush.
  • If the dirt is coarse and adheres firmly, you should use a special chain cleaner.
  • If the chain is bare or shows signs of rust, you should always use chain spray after cleaning. To do this, place your bike on the main or mounting rack, generously cover the rims and tires with cardboard and spray the spray on the inside of the chain at the bottom strand of the chain. While doing this, you should turn the rear wheel by hand.
  • Finally, you must check the chain tension to ensure your safety. To do this, you need to jack up the bike. Next, use your finger to check the sag in the middle of the chain. Now turn the wheel a little further and check the chain again. Repeat this process until you find the tightest point. The sag should not exceed three to five centimeters. If not: go to a mechanic and have it checked by a professional.
And if you're cleaning your chain, when you're taking care of your bike, look directly at the brakes, oil filter and tires for any damage or wear early on. However, especially when it comes to the brakes, you should get professional assistance to change the brake pads or brake fluid. After all, working brakes can save lives. You should also go to a shop to have the electronics, clutch, steering, fork and engine repaired. For do-it-yourself work, the following rules apply: Always follow the repair and maintenance instructions!

The finishing touch - maintaining the motorcycle until the end

For a motorcycle, both the appearance and safety are fundamental. Nothing beats the comfort of BMW motorcycle models. At the end of the maintenance of your bike, you should also treat your bike with some varnish. Not only does this look good, but it also permanently protects your bike from environmental influences. It's best to use hard wax for this. Rub it on the chrome parts of your bike and polish it thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth. This will give your bike a polished look and make it ready for the next big ride. Motorcycle maintenance combines two things: first, your motorcycle must look good, and second, you need to check it yourself every time you clean it to see if there are any safety risks.
Are motorcycle trackers worth it?
How to choose your next motorcycle training course?