What Not to Do to Your Motorcycle

Many motorcyclists enjoy working on their bikes, but some tinkerers may be doing more harm than good. Unless you’ve had mechanical training, you may be making simple mistakes that can cause some serious damage. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
person riding motorcycle

Incorrect tire inflation: The owner’s manual that came with your motorcycle will list the correct air pressure that your tires should be inflated to in order to function smoothly. Under-inflation can cause overheating, wear and instability. Over-inflation can cause imbalance and can reduce the life of the tires. To inflate the tires correctly, use a tire gauge to test the pressure regularly and adjust as needed.
Over-tightening bolts: While the most common result of over-tightening your bike’s bolts is stripped screws, it can cause more serious problems if done persistently. To avoid these issues, use a torque wrench and the torque settings listed in the owner’s manual when tightening bolts.
Neglecting a wash: Road grime builds up and hardens on your motorcycle, which can cause corrosion, blockages and other damages. Road salt in the winter is especially harmful to your bike’s metal components. Regularly wash your bike to remove all the gunk that builds up during rides. An hour of your time every month or so can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs.
Permanent modifications: Eventually you’ll want to sell or trade-in your motorcycle and when that time comes, you’re likely to get a higher offer for a bike with factory parts and paint. If you wish to install accessories onto your bike, be sure that they’re completely detachable. Then you can sell them separately when selling your bike.

And you should never forget about coverage. Call Primero Insurance Agency for more information on motorcycle insurance.

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