Hot Weather Motorcycle Maintenance
Summer is a great time to ride a motorcycle, but all of that heat can be hard on a vehicle. Luckily, a few special precautions are all it takes to avoid unnecessary damage. If you want to keep your motorcycle running well throughout the summer months, follow these tips from Miller’s Motorsports.
Monitor Your Fluids
There are various fluids inside your motorcycle that help it function properly. As things get hotter, these fluids have to work harder to do the same job. Make sure that you are using a high-quality coolant recommended by your manufacturer, and top it off often. Also keep in mind that your brake fluid, engine oil, fuel, and other liquids will be used up more quickly in the summer due to evaporation. Make sure that you are regularly topping off these fluids as well.
Monitor Heat-Sensitive Parts
If you leave your motorcycle out in the hot sun for too long, you may return to find that the rubber and plastic parts have partially melted. Even less extreme damage can result in leaks, mechanical issues, and blowouts. When possible, always park your motorcycle somewhere shaded. You also need to be careful when going on longer rides, as these can strain the vehicle and cause overheating. Inspect your motorcycle often, and call a service department if you notice anything that looks brittle, cracked, or melted.
Monitor Your Tire Pressure
Keep in mind that the manufacturer recommendations for PSI are set with normal temperatures in mind. Heat causes expansion, which can strain your tires. During the summer you will need to check your PSI more frequently in order to protect your tires.
Utilize Wax Or Polish
If you are concerned about the sun damaging your motorcycle’s exterior, you can protect it using a polish or wax. Some products are even formulated with this purpose in mind, so search around and find what works best for you.
We here at Miller’s Motorsports wish you a summer full of enjoyable motorcycle rides. For more information or to view our selection of motorcycle models, visit us in Lemont Furnace or Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. We are proud to serve communities like Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Youngstown, Ohio. We hope to see you soon!