Motorcycle service – All things you need to know explained

motorcycle service tips you need to know
6 December 2023

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Long story short – This post is all about things and tips you need to know before giving your motorcycle for service. Here, we explain the motorcycle service tips in the simplest manner possible.

Why is regular motorcycle service needed?

A motorcycle consists of several moving parts, and when there are moving parts, there is friction, so wear and tear. The result is motorcycle breakdown, shortage of mileage and performance, etc. The remedy is regular service and checkups of expert personnel from authorised showrooms. However, the customer must be made aware of all that needs to be looked upon and checked after and before the service. From this unawareness, issues start to form with service personnel in showrooms.

Never-ending issues with authorized service personnel

The main objective of this article is to provide motorcycle service tips to avoid conflict and confront situations with authorised service showrooms, which is a common thing now. Every motorcycle owner must have encountered a bad experience with the authorised motorcycle service centre.

The number of motorcycles that need to be serviced is very high, and service personnel is very few in most showrooms. So the quantity of motorcycles that need service is very high per personnel. As a result, the quality is low. This article discusses the essential things that need to be taken care of during motorcycle service. So, let’s delve deep into each of the points.

Motorcycle service tips that you need to know

Motorcycle service tips & things you need to know

Get service from authorised stations for the first 2-3 years.

Always get service from authorised stations regularly for 2-3 years without missing the last dates for each free and paid service. Otherwise, you might miss the warranty for parts. Talk about the same with service personnel for clarity.

Get extra careful about free service.

Nothing is free in this competitive world, so keep that in mind and check what is done in free service, which you need to pay, and overall check for the same yourself at home or after service.

After 2-3 years, opt for non-authorised garages.

If cost is a concern, then you can opt for non-authorised garages. But get proper feedback about the garage before giving the motorcycle for repair. The cost will be less compared to the authorised service centre.

Check your vehicle for scratches and dents before giving the motorcycle.

Specify to the vehicle inspector and make him note it on the job card. Many service stations refuse their blunders at the time of delivery if you observe any scratches or dents.

Always write down motorcycle issues on paper.

This is very important as you do not want to miss any points you might miss when you keep them in mind. Also, there might be a rush in service centres, and service personnel will rush to get things done. Also, ensure they are noted in the job card by service personnel.

Remove the toolkit from your vehicle.

It is advisable to remove it before handing over the bike if you can’t, count the number of tools before and after service to avoid theft scenarios and mistakes.

Remove all bike documents and expensive stuff from the motorcycle.

The motorcycle showroom will not take responsibility for the loss or theft if anything is missed. So please remove your vehicle’s seat covers, documents, extra light fittings, helmets, etc..

Always ride with the vehicle inspector before and after the service if possible.

Suppose there are dynamic problems in your vehicle. Try to explain and convince about the issue while riding with the vehicle inspector.

Make sure the engine oil is replaced with a brand-new one.

You can check the same from the showroom or your home, but this one is mandatory as there are several occurrences of cheating in the same.

Do not blindly believe parts replacement suggestions.

Authorised service showrooms are all about business and want maximum bill amount from each customer. So keep that in mind and make sure part replacement is necessary or not. Check the maintenance manual for parts replacement time and repair.

learn simple DIY (Do It Yourself) things.

Always try to learn simple DIY service things that can be easily done on yourself and get a basic idea about parts, working of motorcycle, etc. Some examples of DIY things are chain lubing, chain cleaning, greasing cables, nuts, changing engine oil etc.

Always ask for offers or packages.

Most of the time, showrooms provide offers or packages, so opt for the same but study in depth for any trap or pitfalls in the offers.

FAQ about motorcycle service

Can I service my bike myself?

Yes, you can service your bike yourself, but it is essential to have some basic mechanical skills and knowledge. If you are uncomfortable working on your bike, taking it to a professional mechanic or authorised dealer is always best.

How often motorcycle service?

The frequency of motorcycle service depends on the motorcycle type and the bike’s make and model. There is no fixed kilometre range service duration for all motorcycles, which varies significantly between different models.

What does a motorcycle service include?

Some of the most common tasks in motorcycle service are:

  1. Oil and filter change
  2. Tyre inspection and pressure check
  3. Brake inspection
  4. Chain inspection and lubrication
  5. Spark plug inspection and replacement
  6. Throttle and clutch cable inspection and adjustment
  7. Lighting inspection

What does a free motorcycle service include?

Some of the most common tasks in free motorcycle service are:

  1. Oil level check and top-off
  2. Tyre pressure check and adjustment
  3. Brake pad inspection and adjustment
  4. Chain lubrication and tension adjustment
  5. Headlight and taillight inspection
  6. Basic fluid level checks (coolant, brake fluid, clutch fluid)

What does a paid motorcycle service include?

Some of the most common tasks in paid motorcycle service are:

  1. Thorough oil change and filter replacement
  2. Detailed tire inspection for wear, cracks, and proper pressure
  3. In-depth brake inspection, including pad thickness, brake fluid level, and hose integrity
  4. Comprehensive chain inspection, including wear, lubrication, and tension adjustment
  5. Spark plug inspection and replacement if necessary
  6. Throttle and clutch cable inspection and adjustment
  7. Lighting inspection, including all signals, turn signals, and brake lights
  8. Battery inspection and charging if necessary
  9. Suspension inspection and adjustment if necessary
  10. Steering inspection and adjustment if necessary

In addition to these tasks, a motorcycle service may include other checks and inspections, such as the battery and suspension. The mechanic may also clean and lubricate various motorcycle parts, such as the frame and wheels.

Can I service my bike at any dealership?

No, dealerships are only authorised to service their motorcycle models. For example, a Honda dealership cannot service a Yamaha motorcycle. But in non-authorised shops, they will service all models of motorcycles.

Which is the best motorcycle service, authorised or non-authorised?

Authorised service centres are the preferred choice if you prioritise quality assurance, warranty coverage, and genuine parts. However, if budget is a primary concern and you are comfortable with potentially using aftermarket parts, non-authorised service can be a more affordable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we are shortlisting what we need to take care of before taking the motorcycle for free or paid service.

  1. Get service from authorised stations for the first 2-3 years.
  2. Get extra careful about free service.
  3. After 2-3 years, opt for non-authorised garages.
  4. Check your vehicle for scratches and dents before giving the motorcycle.
  5. Always write down motorcycle issues on paper.
  6. Remove the toolkit from your vehicle.
  7. Remove all bike documents and expensive stuff from the motorcycle.
  8. Always ride with the vehicle inspector before and after the service if possible.
  9. Make sure the engine oil is replaced with a brand-new one.
  10. Do not blindly believe parts replacement suggestions.
  11. Learn simple DIY (Do It Yourself) things.
  12. Always ask for offers or packages.

If you have any other doubts or queries, email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com. We are always eager to help and assist you. Also, here are several social media platforms of Bikeleague India to raise your suspicions.