Get the Bike Fit for Summer – Tips from Bendix

While the thought of year-round riding may appeal to many bikers, the reality is that in many parts of Australia and New Zealand, seasonal weather conditions can be a challenge that only the most committed riders manage to overcome.

A more common scenario is that the motorcycle gets stored in the garage for a few months each year, with owners opting to shy away from the worst of the rainy and cold conditions. In hot climates, timings may be the opposite, with winter providing the best riding opportunities.

Either way, with the bike out of action for a while, it’s important to ensure that all is in good working order from a mechanical perspective, before once more hitting a favourite ribbon of tarmac or getting back into the daily commute. As the weeks have passed, there’s the chance that the condition of the bike has degraded through lack of use.

When the time comes to resume riding, some owners choose to take their ride to the local workshop for a check-up, but there are plenty who will perform initial checks themselves and then call on their mechanic if more help is needed. Below are some general checks to help make a safer seasonal transition.

Fuel

Regular petrol has a shelf life of around three to six months, with high octane fuel lasting a little longer. When left sitting, petrol deteriorates becoming less effective as a fuel and can also release gums and varnishes into the fuel system. It’s therefore advisable to drain the tank and top up with fresh petrol before the first trip.

Brakes

Brake fluid is another important consumable that shouldn’t be overlooked as it provides the necessary transfer force to ensure every time the brake lever is pressed, the force travels all the way to the calipers to safely bring the bike to a safe stop. A secondary purpose is to lubricate all the moving parts within the braking system, helping to protect against corrosion while removing contaminants. It also helps dissipate heat within the system, leading to reliable and predictable braking. Given brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air), it’s recommended that fluid is changed every 12-18 months not topped up, as water in the system minimises braking performance.

Being hygroscopic, brake fluid attracts moisture which minimises braking performance. It's therefore recommended that brake fluid is replaced every 12-18 months, not topped up.

Most modern brake reservoirs have an inspection window to view the upper and lower limit of the brake fluid. Also check the outside of the brake fluid reservoir for leaks or misting. Whether you’re running OEM rubber brake lines or aftermarket steel lines, wipe them clean then check the entire length from the reservoir to the caliper; look for bends, creases, nicks, leaks or chaffing due to the line rubbing on another component.

The outside of the brake fluid reservoir should be checked for leaks, along with brake lines. Keep an eye out for bends, creases, nicks, leaks or chaffing.

Also check pad wear. Some bikes have an inspection cover on the top of the caliper, if not, some maneuvering may be needed to find the best view of the pads. Either way, shine the torch into the caliper to see how much friction material remains – there should be around 1.5 to 2mm as a bare minimum. Rotors should also be checked by running fingers across the disc from the centre outward. If the surface has ridges or a lip on the inner or outer edge of the disc, the brake performance is compromised.

Some bikes allow for pad wear to be checked through an inspection cover, if not, manoeuvre the wheel to allow the best view into the caliper.

Brake calipers are normally quite robust but take a look to make sure there’s no residue or leaks around the brake line banjo bolt. All securing bolts should also be tight.

Rotors can be checked by running fingers across the disc from the centre outward.

Battery

If the bike is left sitting for too long, the battery will gradually discharge, especially on more modern bikes with immobilisers and alarms that constantly draw power. A good solution is a drip or trickle charger, which will maintain battery health when not in use. Otherwise, recharge the battery with a conventional charger.

Oils

A quick check of the engine oil level should also be on any list, as well as the transmission fluid for motorcycle models that use it. These fluids are essential to properly lubricate and protect mechanical components; regular oil and fluid changes also help to remove contaminants.

Chain and sprockets

If unused for some time, it’s advisable to clean and regrease the chain to ensure drive is smooth and quiet. Even if stored securely in a garage or shed, it’s likely that the chain may have picked up grime and dust. While inspecting the chain, cast your eyes over the sprockets for any signs of wear at the teeth which may not previously been picked up.

Tyres

Before hitting the road, check tyre pressure are at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Chances are that air has escaped and if the bike has not been placed on stands, they might have a slight flat spot. Of course, check for adequate tread depth and cracking in the tyres, especially on older bikes that are used less often. Cracking in the tyres will require new rubber.

Tyre pressures should also be checked before hitting the road, while also taking note of tread depth and the emergence of any cracks in the rubber.

Lights and indicators

Often overlooked but very important is the correct functioning of the headlamp, indicators and brake lights, to keep the bike roadworthy and the rider safer.

If it has been a longer time since the owner has ridden, they could consider combining the bike maintenance with some rider maintenance by participating in refresher courses such as those offered by training provider. Also check riding gear is up to scratch before hitting the road.

To learn more about Bendix’s range of motorcycle brake pads as well as tips and ‘how-to’ guides, visit www.bendixmoto.com.au