No matter how much money you paid for your motorcycle it requires maintenance. Some of these tasks may simple one you can DIY. Others are more involved requiring specific knowledge or tools. But at the end of the ride, what matters is that you perform the maintenance so you can keep on riding.  This includes the occasional tune up.

Studies show that regular motorcycle tune ups can reduce risk of collisions by up to 75%. So, ignoring the signs a tune up is needed is a risk to you as well as others. However, there’s no exact schedule for when certain jobs need to be done. But if you listen to your motorcycle and note any changes in the ride, you can stay ahead of many problems.

Don’t Ignore These Signs a Tune Up is Needed

Lower Miles Per Gallon

If you begin seeing that your MPGs are not what they typically are, then it could be a result of a number of issues. Some of these include:

• Tire pressure is low
• Spark plugs are working correctly
• Fuel line has a leak
• Brakes are too tight

These issues may be a simple adjustment such as

• Inflating the tires or using different gas
• Needing to clean and lubricate the chain
• Require a new air filter
• Replace the fluids

You can find many of these items by going to your local AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil. They have filter, fluids, lubes and more all designed to keep your motorcycle’s engine purring.

Grinding, Hissing, Snapping, Kinking or Ticking                                                                             

Hearing sounds that aren’t a part of the normal riding experience can indicate a variety of issues. For example, that grinding sound may be a sign you need to add some oil, but it could be an issue with the chain. If your bike is making noises that you don’t recognize a tune-up by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.

Brakes Are Slow to React

No matter what you are driving, have brakes that are slow is never optimal! If your bike isn’t stopping as fast as it normally does, check the brake fluid, and top off it necessary. If the fluid level is correct, other causes can be poor contact between the brake lining and the drum, fluid deterioration, or overuse of the brakes.

Tires Need Replacing

Don’t ride on the tires until they are bald! Be intentional about inspecting your bike’s tires for flat spots, tread bruises, cracks, cuts, or other signs of age or stress. If you note any concerns- whether in the appearance or how your motorcycle is grabbing the road, now is the time for making a change.

Ignition is Off but the Engine is still Running

This is more common in high-performance bikes and is usually a result of using the wrong gasoline. Change to a different gas and see if it makes a difference.

Ignoring the signs that your bike needs a tune up can be costly. Don’t put off the repairs or tune up needed. Whether it’s something basic like adding oil or something more extensive like an engine rebuild you want your bike ready roll whenever you are.