Dirt bikes are an exciting way to have fun and explore the great outdoors, but they also require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. From checking the air filter to lubricating the chain and changing the oil, there are several routine tasks that every dirt bike owner should be aware of.
In this article, the dirt bike experts at Motomentum provide a list of essential maintenance tips that will help you keep your dirt bike in exceptional condition no matter where your off-road adventures take you. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, these tips will help you get the most out of your bike and ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Clean Your Dirt Bike After Rides
Cleaning your dirt bike regularly not only keeps it looking great but also helps extend its lifespan and maintain its performance. Dirt and debris can cause corrosion and damage to the bike’s components, leading to dangerous damage and expensive repairs. Cleaning your bike after every ride helps remove these contaminants before they can accumulate and cause damage.
In addition to preventing the accumulation of dirt and debris, cleaning your dirt bike also provides an opportunity to inspect your bike and identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. Check out our extensive selection of premium cleaning products online.
Inspect and Adjust Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is often overlooked as long as the tire is not flat. However, even minor differences in tire pressure have the potential to risk rider safety. As such, routinely inspecting and adjusting tire pressure accordingly is paramount to ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
Incorrect tire pressure can cause a variety of problems, including poor handling, decreased traction, and increased risk of pinch flats. Furthermore, maintaining proper tire pressure is essential in preserving and maximizing tire life. Regularly checking tire pressure with a pressure gauge is a simple and effective way to maintain the overall health of your dirt bike and ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Clean and Lubricate Your Chain
Cleaning and lubricating a dirt bike chain is essential because it helps to extend the life of the chain, reduce friction and wear on the sprockets, and improve overall performance. Routine cleaning and lubrication also help maintain the proper tension of the chain, reducing the risk of a snapped chain while riding.
Neglecting to maintain the chain can result in diminished performance and a shorter lifespan, which is why routine cleaning and lubrication is an essential part of routine dirt bike maintenance.
Inspect and Clean the Air Filter
A clean air filter is critical for a properly functioning dirt bike engine. The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, which can cause damage and reduce performance. Furthermore, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow, which reduces engine power and causes the engine to run lean. Routinely cleaning your air filter will protect your engine from harmful dirt and debris and make sure it runs with the ideal mixture of air and gas.
You will eventually need to replace your air filter. If you notice a tear or that it’s not coming clean with air pressure, it’s probably time for a replacement. Having an extra air filter on hand will ensure you’re never caught waiting around for one to arrive. Order an extra air filter from Motomentum today for speedy shipping.
Routine Oil Changes
Oil changes are arguably the most important routine maintenance step a dirt bike owner can perform. Oil changes are vital because they help to keep the engine lubricated and running smoothly.
Dirt bike engines generate a ton of heat and friction, and oil helps prevent damage to the engine components. Over time oil becomes thick and contaminated with dirt and other debris, which reduces its effectiveness.
Neglecting to change the oil can lead to reduced performance, increased wear, and engine damage, making regular oil changes an essential part of routine dirt bike maintenance. On average, you should aim to change your dirt bike’s oil every fifteen hours. Motomentum carries a wide selection of complete oil change kits, filter, and oil.
Spark Plug Maintenance
While you don’t typically need to change your spark plugs as often as you need to perform air filter and oil change maintenance, you still need to stay on top of it. It is recommended that spark plugs be changed every 40-50 hours. Considering how vital spark plugs are to the overall functioning of a dirt bike, this maintenance step should not be overlooked.
Spark plug maintenance is so important because spark plugs are what deliver the spark that causes the engine to run. Dirty, old, and worn-out plugs will reduce performance or prevent the engine from running altogether. Motomentum carries all the tools and spark plug products you need to make sure your bike stays running as it should.
Inspect Your Controls and Cables
Your bike relies on the clutch, throttle, and brake cables to run correctly. As such, you should routinely inspect all cables to ensure they are free of any kinks or frays. A kinked or frayed cable may cause the end function, clutch, throttle, or brake to fail in the middle of a ride which poses a serious safety risk to the rider.
A quick visual inspection before and after each ride should be more than enough to ensure no damage has occurred. If you notice something is off with your throttle, clutch, or brake cables, don’t risk your safety by trying to ride your bike. Order the cables you need and replace them beforehand.
Brake Inspections
Brakes are an essential part of a safely functioning bike. If you can’t rely on your brakes to work, you probably shouldn’t be riding the bike. Brake failures are largely preventable as long as you take the time to inspect them in between rides. Failing to do so could result in a catastrophic crash that causes life-changing injuries. Order the quality brake pads and rotors you need for the affordable price you deserve today.
