Motorcycles have a large following, whether you’re an owner or a simple enthusiast. With parts ranging from motorcycle gaskets and spark plugs all the way up to motorcycle apparel for men and women, it’s no real surprise. However, motorcycles have a few common problems that make it harder to keep them running. Below are the 3 most common issues you might face while riding your bike and how you can prevent them.
When it comes to keeping a tire in good shape, balance is an important consideration. If your tires are not balanced correctly, or your bike is leaning to one side when you ride, it can shorten a tire’s life. One way this could be happening is by taking off-road routes. Approximately 40% of motorcycle riders choose to take back roads and other routes instead of the main roads. These roads, with their lack of smooth concrete, can cause one side of your bike to take a heavier load than the other. It is recommended to check your tires after every 500 to 1000 miles you use them to make sure they are balanced properly.
Motorcycle tires are also susceptible to pressure damage. In fact, experts agree that if you check your tires after a few hours of riding, you can see if they’re working too hard. This is shown by a pressure gain of at least 10%. This is when you know that you’re working your tires too hard. If this pressure is not checked and corrected periodically, then your tires can start to overheat.
The temperature of your bike is another important thing to keep in mind. Not just the weather, but the temperature that rises when you work the bike too hard. It is estimated that a street bike you ride too aggressively can get up 350 degrees Fahrenheit. On the same bike, the brake pads and discs may exceed 600 degrees if the rider is not careful. And that’s not all. These extreme temperatures can cause irreparable damage to different parts of the bike, including the motorcycle gaskets and seals. It will save you a lot of money in replacing parts if you can keep your bike from overheating in the first place.
Motorcyclists are known for their pride in their bikes. By keeping these 3 common issues in mind, they can keep their bike in good shape, save themselves some money, and most importantly, keep riding longer.
