Motorcycle TLC

Using the second wave isolation to your advantage.

how to keep your motorcycle in top condition during lockdown:

P E T R O L .

Keep a full tank, less air in the tank means less condensation build up & minimises corrosion.  ‘Moist’ is one of the most disliked words in the world… your motorcycle also feels the same way.
Start your bike and let it idol every week or so, this will circulate the fuel and prevent any yucky build-ups.

B A T T E R Y .

If you don't start your bike on the regular, the battery will drain & eventually go flat. To avoid this disconnect the battery or alternately connect a trickle charge unit.   

When it comes to removing the battery terminals, it's best to check your owners manual.  This is our preferred method to keep your electrics safe:

1. Turn the key in the ignition to ON
2. Remove the main fuse
3. Turn ignition to OFF
4. Locate your battery (typically under the seat)
5. Disconnect the negative (-) BLACK
6. Disconnect the positive (+) RED
7. Cover the terminals so there is no contact, or remove the battery
8. Reconnect the main fuse

A trickle charger is a power unit that connects to the wall which constantly “tickles” the battery and keeps your battery at 100%.  Sort of like putting your moto-baby on a drip to keep it alive during a coma.  Not a pleasant image, but it is all about the battery survival! These chargers are great tool all year round, they don't overcharge and will significantly increase the life of your battery.
You can grab one of these at your local motorcycle store.  

T Y R E S .

Pump your tyres up high & check 'em every few weeks. If your bike is sitting still for months on end the tyres will gradually lose pressure & distort in shape from sitting in the same position.  The recommended PSI will be in your manual or printed on a sticker either on your swingarm or chain/belt guard. 

HOT TIP: Tyres should only ever be filled/checked when your bike is completely cold. If the tyres are warm, the reading can be inaccurate.
You can use a small gauge to see what the pressure is before you head to the nearest servo, or wait for them to cool as much as possible before filling them up.

In this case your motorcycle manual is not always the bible, if your tyres have been replaced, the air pressure may be different (found this one out the hard way after riding months on end, 10psi lower than recommended - wow what a difference air can make!) so get on your hands and knees and start squinting for the fine print!

C L E A N  U P .

Well, it ain’t gonna clean itself!  Leaving your motorbike neglected and dirty will not only hurt it’s feelings, it’s going to the hurt the mechanics of your bike (e.g. the chain).  They say “Karma’s a bitch”, so once restrictions begin to ease and you're ready to let down your hair and go full throttle… well it’s possible you won’t get far when the dirt, moisture and rust builds up over time.

C H A I N . (If applicable)

Your first signs of neglect is usually evident in your chain.  Neglect and rust are the ultimate enemy to your moto baby and you! The only time rust should be in your life is if you are having a Rusty Nail (great cocktail for isolation).
 
Follow these steps:

HOT TIP: If your motorcycle chain has stubborn rust that won’t bugger off, spray WD40 on the chain, and let it sit for 10mins.  Elbow grease is your best measure.  Think of it like an isolated arm work out . MAKE SURE YOU REMOVE ANY EXCESS GREASE! Ice skating is a great winter style activity, but not for your motorcycle, WD40 on your tyres can have you slipping and sliding around. Repeat steps 3-9.

C O V E R  U P .

Grab that beautiful 1000 thread count sheet yo' mumma bought you and keep your baby tucked in. Using a blankie or sheet instead of a plastic rain cover will soak up moisture & prevent rust as well as dust.  If in doubt, hit the shops and get yourself a decent cover.

how to keep your moto-brain in top condition during lockdown:

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HANG IN THERE!