THE HEART IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF THE BODY
That is right. The heart is the most important part of the body even in case of bikes. Engine oil drives the engine. Continuing to use dirty oil increases fuel consumption like crazy and makes the engine inefficient. So, the solution is to oil the engine periodically. This keeps it cool and lubricated.
The carburettor and valve clearances need special attention. Clean out the carburettor float chamber for every 1500 kms travelled and do not forget the spark plugs. Spark plugs are as important as blood vessels are in the Circulatory System. They are used to produce the spark that ignites fuel. So, use the right kind of spark plug. Go ahead and use Iridium plugs if you have to. They are worth the extra penny.
THE TRANSMISSION SYSTEM
Lubricate the chain that rotates the rear tyre. Use paraffin to clean it and expect it to have a long-life span. If chains are neglected, they will erode and fall off the sprockets. Excess heat damages them too. Use a soft piece of cloth to remove all the dirt and tighten them if they are loose. Beware not tighten them excessively. Using engine oil to grease chains is not such a bad idea either.
BATTERIES AND BRAKES
Well, the basic rules apply for batteries. They should always be charged. Examine them for leaks. Battery leakage is a big ‘No’! Top them up with distilled water. Check for cracks and vibrations and also if the electrolytes are up to the required level.
Coming to brakes, neither can they be too tight nor too loose. Brakes halt vehicles. Braking systems are vital. So, inspect for the space between the brakes that hold the tyres. If bikes screech too much, replace the bike pads. Brakes need to be oiled too. Always make it a point to ensure that brakes function properly and when in doubt, bleed your brakes.
Test the brake cables. Even if they work fine, the worn-out ends can be tacky. In this case, simply twist them and then cap them. Twist the threads and get them as close as they can get and then use a wire cap to bind them. Just smash the end with pliers to keep them from moving.
BIKES NEED A WASH
Bikes do need a wash. However, there is a certain way to wash them. Firstly, invest in cleaning products specific for the motorcycle. Use water and a light detergent to clean the bike’s metal and plastic. High pressure water sprays are not recommended and do not clean the vehicle when the engine and exhaust are hot. Leave the silencer and the electrical parts alone. Do not drench them. Also, chemical solvents are not recommended for the surface. Dry the bike thoroughly and then start the engine. Test for brakes once washed.
Get rid of road salt using cold water. Warm water does not remove salt. Make use of a mild detergent and wet sponge for aluminium parts. Corrosion marks on aluminium parts can be scraped off using soaped steel wood. Remember, no water to bearings.
Wash the seat, dashboard, indicators, rear light and wind screen. Switch the headlight on to high beam for some time. Let the engine run while it is on. The headlight gets clearer eventually.
Finish off by using a spray cleaner or polish wax.
TIRE TREADS AND RIDING SPEED
A Tyre Pressure Gauge can be used to know the pressure. Check the tyres for air pressure, cuts and scrapes. Get them fixed or replace them as soon as possible to avoid hassles. Not over exceeding the speed limit can also be good for the bike’s health. Maintaining a speed of 40-60 kms is good for the bike.
A WONDERFUL ALTERNATIVE!
As already mentioned, bike maintenance is an art. It is a daunting task. It is labour intensive and time consuming. However, we have an alternative! Get a bike on rent. But here is the question, ‘Where can I rent a bike?’. Opt for online bike booking. Ontrack is an online bike rental company. The bike is always in good condition and you can be stress free! Ontrack is a monthly bike rental and is one of the best bike rentals in Bangalore! The two-wheeler rented from Ontrack is maintained by the company on a monthly basis.
HASSLE-FREE, ISN’T IT? YES, SO JUST RENT NOW AND EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SERVICES.