Motorcycle insurance helps you pay for injuries or repairs if necessary. However, you’ll reduce the odds of getting into an accident and needing to contact your provider by performing basic maintenance tasks for your bike. Here’s some advice on how to maintain your vehicle. 

Do: 

Apply lube correctly. 

WD-40® is an excellent lubricant for the plastic parts, such as the taillights, headlights, handguards, front fenders, and fuel tanks. It also works well on metal components, like the motor, engine, and rims.

For the chain, use chain lube, which is formulated to endure the movements and friction of this part. Opt for heavy-duty lubricant, which is thicker than the light-duty variety and can provide stronger protection. 

Examine the tires. 

Every two weeks, check the tire tread. Measure this is by placing a penny into one of the grooves.

If the groove reaches the top of Lincoln’s head, have a mechanic replace the tires right away. Otherwise, the tread could come off while you’re riding, and you may not be able to file a claim with your motorcycle insurance if it’s clear that you had time to get new ones. 

Put on wax. 

To protect your motorcycle from damage due to bugs, tar, dirt, sap, and UV rays, apply a coat of wax to it after washing. Painted surfaces could chip or fade otherwise. Remember that your motorcycle insurance likely won’t cover preventable damage. 

Don’t: 

Use the wrong washing tools. 

Don’t use any soap other than one created specifically to handle a motorcycle’s paint, plastic, and metal parts. Also, wash the bike with a garden hose rather than a pressure washer, which is too powerful. However, an electric leaf blower is a perfectly safe way to dry it off, and it prevents scratches from towel fibers. 

Remove bugs the wrong way. 

Your bike will inevitably collect some dead bugs, but they’ll only damage it if you don’t remove them correctly. Don’t rub, scrub, or scrape them.

Instead, soak them under a clean wet rag for a few minutes. After that, they’ll wash off easily. 

Look at tilted oil. 

The oil in your motorcycle should be checked at least once a month. However, it won’t help if you leave the bike on the kickstand while checking, as it will tilt the oil and give you an inaccurate reading. Use a stand or chock to keep the motorcycle level while you examine or refill the oil. 

 

In addition to keeping your bike in prime condition, get high-quality, affordable motorcycle insurance from Texas Brand Insurance in Hubbard, TX. For over 35 years, their friendly and knowledgeable insurance agents have been provided a variety of individualized policies, including boat, RV, auto, and home insurance. To find out how they can create a custom plan for you, call (254) 576-1180 or check out their website.