Maintenance Tips for Your Pre-Owned Motorcycle

Purchasing a pre-owned motorbike is a strategic move. If you're lucky, you get a good working bike at a great price. However, pre-owned motorbikes often have more significant maintenance issues because of the previous owner's long hours of use.

All hope isn't lost. Proactive maintenance may extend your bike's life, decreasing the number of times you'll need to see a mechanic.

The following guide will help you learn how to maintain your newly bought pre-owned bike. However, if you're living in Pennsylvania and using a pre-owned Harley, consider taking it to Harley Davidson dealers in PA. Expect to get top-notch services for you and your motorbike from them.

- Fuel Usage

When your used motorbike's fuel filter gets clogged, it affects the way you ride. So once its engine becomes difficult to start up, or you hear odd sounds when you're riding, consider replacing its fuel filter.

Also, ensure to use the right fuel. You can use higher octane fuel if you don't ride your bike regularly. However, when you leave ethanol-heavy fuels in your pre-owned motorcycle, it may leave you with a corrosive sludge.

- Check the Brakes

The brake helps protect you against collision by reining in your speed when you're about to hit something or someone or barreling down a hill. However, they need to work well to help you stay safe. Seeing that the previous owner has used the bike for a while, you might want to verify that the brake isn't worn down.

Check the brake fluid level and top it when necessary. Also, examine the brake pads and ensure they aren't too worn down. If they are, replace them. If you discover any odd or grinding noises, then bring in your bike to any Harley Davidson dealer in PA, such as Hot Metal Harley-Davidson, for a maintenance check.

- Batteries

The pre-owned motorcycle's battery might not be in the best shape, as the previous owner might have used it for a long time. So if your used bike fails to start, check the battery. On the other hand, it might be a minor issue you can solve by recharging the battery.

However, if the battery keeps dying, then it has a problem. After recharging or replacing the battery, if it keeps draining, check your alternator. It's usually best to remove the leads or connect your battery to a trickle charge to prevent draining.

- The Oil Level

Check the oil by inserting a dipstick and wiping it clean. Do this practice twice and observe the result. Ensure the oil's consistency and the color is perfect. If not, replace it. If you discover powder or metallic shavings floating around, then there's a problem. It might be that some engine parts are grinding together. Consider calling your mechanic to handle it. However, top off the oil to the desired level if everything looks fine.

- The Tires

Used motorcycle tires are often worn, so ensure you examine them regularly. First, check that the tires have enough thread to keep traction while riding. Then make sure it has enough pressure by reading it with your pressure gauge.

Little pressure will make the tires struggle with the forces pushing them when moving, and too much pressure will prevent the tires from having adequate contact with the road.

Where to Service Your Harley

Harley Davidson bikes have numerous dealers that offer maintenance services for their users. So if you're living in Pennsylvania, simply search online for Harley Davidson dealers in PA and choose one. With the right kind of maintenance, your pre-owned bike will become as good as new.