The global pandemic has us on lockdown, and we are to stay at our homes. This is to protect ourselves and others from these diseases because this is what we can do for its prevention. However, we are only allowed to get outside the house when it is important. So our vehicles, whether it is a car or motorcycle, are sort of rotting at home. You can of course use them for basic tasks when you get out of the horse. But for that you would have to take care of them not just those but also your motorcycle luggage and gear like jacket, vest, rain gear etc. Today we are going to tell you how you can take care of your motorcycle, riding gear, and luggage bags.
Changing the fluids
Beginning with the motorcycle itself, you have to check the fluids and replace or refill them up to the mark. For engine oil you can check the dipstick and see if the oil level is right or not. While checking, the fluids make sure the bike is standing straight. For further detailed inspection you can also refer to the user’s manual. Check other fluids like coolant etc.
Mostly the motorcycle service and repair centers are operational so you can take your motorcycle to them. Before starting the bike and riding it to the mechanic check if it has enough fuel and warm up the engine first. However, it is good to postpone this task for a little longer if you won’t be going out or are in self isolation.
If you are refilling yourself just you would need to follow the instructions manual and do not overfill. Once you are done with the fluids, give the bike another look and see what needs to be done. Lube the chain and tighten it well, check the ignition and lights.
Tires and Brakes
If the tires and brakes need replacement, replace them. If you don’t know how to, it is best to take it to the mechanic. Before riding make sure of the tire pressure and if it is rolling with ease. Use a tire inflator to get the pressure up to the mark and for a test ride. If the pressure goes down quickly, go have the bike checked up. If you have a spare tire available, put that on and take the ones you took off for checkup. Do not ride if the tread is too low.
Check Filters
Oil and air filters should be checked before turning the engine on. If they need replacement, it is best to do it before riding the bike. If you cannot do it, yourself then either watch some DIY videos for help, go through the instruction manual, or get to the nearest mechanic. You would not want your motorcycle to be choking.
Wash
Get the repairs and replacements needed the first thing. Even if you did, all needed repairs and refills let some professional check the motorcycle once. Once everything is good you now have to wash the bike thoroughly. Use motorcycle washing liquid, microfiber cloth and separate clean water to rinse off the dust and debris.
Cleaning Gear and Luggage
Once the motorcycle is ready, take it for a ride. But before that, clean your gear too. Most of the textile gear can be washed so that is easy, but refer to the care instruction to ensure. Leather cannot be washed so cleaning it can take a lot of time. First clean any dust off with a smooth brush, then use a cloth to get rid of remains. Then clean it further with clean cotton cloth if it cannot be washed. Further, use lukewarm water mixed with washing liquid, dip a clean cotton cloth in it, and get cleaning.
First clean any dust off with a smooth brush, then use a cloth to get rid of remains. Then clean it further with clean cotton cloth dipped in leather cleaning fluid. Only use trusted and quality brands, do light strokes in one direction, and avoid oil based fluids. If you are using one use a little amount of fluid. Some go for other leather apparel. Do not hang dry, keep the gear in shadow and put it on some table or chair to get dry.
The same goes for the motorcycle bags. All the textile bags can be washed, it is leather where you have to take time. Metal luggage is also easy to clean.
Before cleaning empty the bag, remove all dust, lint, and anything else inside thoroughly and repeat it once again. Clean the exterior with clean cotton cloth. For cleaning leather, use the same process as leather apparel. To clean the metal-luggage use a microfiber cloth and washing-liquid water solution. This is a good time to clean and take care of your motorcycle, luggage bags, and apparel.