Soaring fuel prices make gas-guzzling cars very unpopular. Welcome to the resurgence with the motorcycle. Why? Because properly maintained motorcycles and motorcycle engines can get between 40 and 60 miles a gallon. Smaller scooters get up to 90 miles a gallon, decent for an economy with $4-per-gallon gasoline.

Motorcycle repair tips

Due to this, bike sales have soared. Motorcycle repair, too, comes in handy. Do you have a bike in storage that you haven't dusted off for awhile? There's a good chance you can be some of those restoring motorcycles so that you can ride your old road hog again.



Restoring your older motorcycle to working condition commences with some basic steps:



Check Fuel

If you didn't use a fuel stabilizer before you put the bike into storage, drain your old fuel (including tank, fuel lines and carburetor as applicable) prior to running the engine, and put new in. Lubricate spark plug ports with some oil, too, before starting things up.



Check Oil

Affect the oil and filter if you didn't do so before you started. If you did, top levels off.



How Is Your Battery?

Be sure leads are not corroded understanding that the battery will fully charge and after that hold a charge. Whether it doesn't, replace the car battery.



Inspect The Chain

When your chain transfers power in the engine to the rear wheel, it is crucial that it be in excellent shape. Look the chain over for one more:



-- Is the chain the proper tension? You should be capable to grasp it inside center and move it about one inch in either direction, up or down.



-- Are front and wheel sprocket teeth in good shape? If the teeth have grooves or "waves" inside them or they show other warning signs of wear, you probably need new sprockets (chain will likely show similar wear and need replacement).



-- Check each and every section of the chain for indications of wear and for proper tension. It will move about an inch if you pull on it. Tighten the chain whether it's loose, and loosen it whether it's tight. If the links are too tight, you will need to replace the whole chain.



-- Clean dirt from the chain with a clean towel or rag prior to deciding to apply lubricant. Be sure to thoroughly lubricate all sprocket teeth and links.



-- Lubricate the chain well. Remember that some solvents shouldn't be used with rubber in case your chain has rubber parts to it. Use a proper solvent and wipe off any excess lubricant having a clean rag.



-- Set chain tension properly by moving your rear wheel and axle forward or backward. Each party of the axle should be aligned properly when you tighten things up or even the chain and sprockets might wear out quickly. Tighten the axle nuts and replace the cotter pin with a new one if needed.

Motorcycle repair tips

Fluid Levels

Brake, clutch and coolant levels needs to be checked as necessary. Make sure you replace missing brake fluid with a brand new container of the same coverage used last time. Let your bike idle for a few minutes before you take off in order that all fluids circulate properly.



Tires and Suspension

Inspect everything thoroughly prior to taking your first ride. If you kept your bike stored upright on a kickstand, make sure your tires aren't cracked, marked, or flat. Furthermore, check to make sure tire wear and air levels are great.

Motorcycle repair tips