While you might be dreaming of soaring down the coast road with the wind in your hair, buying a motorbike is a commitment that needs a bit more than an occasional spit and polish to make the chrome sparkle.

Luckily, maintaning your new motorbike will probably be a labour of love. And, because keeping your motorbike or scooter in tip-top shape can save you money, it’s a win-win.  

Here’s our seven-point guide for a safe and efficient ride – before you ride:

• Check oil and water levels;
• Wipe away any dust and dirt from your bike with a soft cloth;
• Test both brakes, clutch and check the gear shift before you ride;
• Check the battery terminals and see if the headlamp, brake lights and tail light are all in working order;
• Check the tyre pressure and check the tyres for any irregularities;
• Switch on the engine and let it idle to allow the oil to line the pistons and cylinders;
• Check the settings of the rear view mirror.

Just because you’re not riding your motorbike everyday, doesn’t mean your work is done. Here are some maintenance tips to keep your ride in tip-top shape:

• Drain the fuel and condition the system so that you are ready to fill up with fresh fuel upon your next ride;
• Give the bike a thorough clean and degreasing, including the brakes and suspension systems;
• Lubricate the joints and pivot points and apply a corrosion treatment;
• Wash and rinse bike parts regularly followed by thorough drying and polishing with a soft cloth;
• Use a wax to coat and polish the duco;
• Store the bike on a stand that elevates it off the ground to alleviate pressure on the tyres;
• Cover the bike with a breathable protective cover.

No matter how well you care for it, there are bound to be times when your bike will need extra attention and parts will need replacing. For example, spark plugs will need to be replaced every 24 months, or every 30,000 kms to maintain optimal fuel economy and engine performance. 

It’s a good idea to arm yourself with a good repair manual to give you all the information you need to recognise issues when they appear, as well as improve the performance, economy and appearance of your bike. Ask your manufacturer, or see what’s available on the internet for more information. 

Even if you decide to have your bike’s maintenance and repair work done by a professional, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the workings of your bike. Not only will it help you with minor repairs, but having some well-rounded knowledge will also put you in a great position to ask for a good deal when your bike does need a service. 

You can find motorcycle parts and repairs experts in the Yellow Pages. Click here to find one near you.