Do you consider yourself to be a garage tinkerer? Many motorcycle owners enjoy doing basic mechanic work themselves, but these actions can create more problems than they solve if you’re not trained properly. Below are some of the most common mistakes that motorcycle owners make and how you can avoid falling into the same trap.
- Make permanent modifications: If you really want those chrome accessories, make sure that they’re removable and that you’ve kept the original parts in a safe place. When you decide to sell, you’re likely to get a higher offer on a bike with factory parts and paint. And you can always sell your extra removable parts separately as well.
- Skip washes: The delicate inner workings of motorcycles are exposed to lots of road grime, which can cause corrosion and other damages (a problem that is worse in the winter after driving over road salt). Regular washes help keep your bike running smoothly and looking its best.
- Over-tighten the bolts: Tightening bolts too much can not only strip the threads but can also cause more serious problems over time. Instead, use a torque wrench and the torque settings in the owner’s manual to tighten the bolts properly each time you tinker with your motorcycle.
- Improperly inflate the tires: The air pressure noted in the owner’s manual is vital for proper function. If your tires are under-inflated or over-inflated, you could experience a host of problems, including overheating, wear, instability while cornering, reduced balance, and more. Check the air pressure each month and inflate the tires as needed.
And always get the coverage you need. Call Keystone Insurance at (801) 852-5555 for more information on motorcycle insurance.