Recommended "priority" maintenance on a used bike.

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#1 Unread post by **yoda731** » Tue Apr 25, 2006 10:23 am

Hey, folks. My new MC license is burning a hole in my wallet. I put 40+ miles on the bike yesterday all around Orlando, and had to make myself stop when it got dark. I'm getting ready to head out for some more fun tonight.

With that in mind, my bike is 25+ years old. It seems to run well and be in good shape. I have done the simple routine maintenance on it-- new battery, oil & air filters, spark plugs, changed the coolant, changed the final drive oil, adjusted the brake and clutch levers and the rear brake.

But it occurred to me that I have no idea when any of the other maintenance items were last done. And since I'm going to be putting my life on those two wheels, what else should I look at ASAP?

For example, if the bearings haven't been repacked in a while, is there a chance that one of the wheels could seize up and have me kissing the pavement?

Thanks for any info that helps keep me in one (large) piece.
JC

CNF2002 · #2 Unread post by **CNF2002** » Tue Apr 25, 2006 10:32 am

Take it to a mechanic and have them do a once over.

Other than that, I believe if its not broke, dont fix it.

ZooTech · #3 Unread post by **ZooTech** » Tue Apr 25, 2006 10:49 am

Have you changed the brake fluid in the front brake? I would recommend a complete flush-and-fill with Valvoline synthetic brake fluid.

Also, if you're concerned about the bearings, put your bike up on the center stand and remove the rear wheel. Have a look at the axle (check for pitting and scoring) and inspect the wheel bearings. When you're done, slip a jack under the front of the engine and do the same for the front wheel. Pick up a tube of Honda Moly 60 paste from your local bike dealership and give everything a good coating before reassembly. That'll do wonders for your worries.

flynrider · Tue Apr 25, 2006 11:00 am

Tires. If they haven't been replaced in the last 5 years or so, they could be no good, even if they still show plenty of tread. The rubber compounds used in tires will dry out over time, making them much more slippery than they were designed to be. To check for dried out rubber, carefully inspect the sidewalls while the bike is sitting on the tires. Look for tiny spiderweb-like cracks in the rubber on the sidewalls. If you find cracks, replace the tires. Not only will they be more slippery, but they'll also be more prone to blow out.