Care Tips for Your Harley Davidson Motorcycle
Proper maintenance and regular cleaning are vital to keeping your Harley-Davidson investment in good working condition. Appropriate and timely care can prolong the lifespan of your motorbike and help maintain its value. If you want to enjoy your Harley for many years, follow the care tips discussed below.
Perhaps the best starting point is your engine oil. You need to change your bike’s engine oil on schedule. Engine oil plays a critical role in the efficient running of the machine, and it must not only be changed on time but kept at the recommended levels. The timeframes for oil changing will depend on the miles ridden, oil type, and age of your machine. Although your mechanic will ensure the oil is checked when you bring the Harley for routine maintenance, check the owner’s manual for specific oil requirements.
Protect your engine from dirt and other damaging particles by regularly replacing your air filter. A clogged or dirty filter affects both fuel consumption and engine performance. The frequency of changing the filter will depend on how you often use the motorcycle. If, for example, you ride in a dusty area, it may be necessary to clean the air filter weekly. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended air filter change timeline.
Motorcycles accumulate lots of dirt, dust, and grime from the road. However, not just any household soap or automotive product will do when cleaning your Harley. Specifically, go for products designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as these have been approved and tested by Harley engineers and are not likely to damage your bike.
Tires are an integral part of your bike’s dynamics, and choosing the correct replacement tire is important. The makers of Harley-Davidson motorcycles have partnered with two premier tire brands, Michelin and Dunlop, to create co-branded Harley-Davidson tires. These products are exclusively designed, approved, and tested to deliver optimal performance on each model from Harley-Davidson. Look for the bold script “Harley-Davidson” on the tire side. The tires are only available from authorized Harley-Davidson retailers.
Take care of your battery and ensure you have a charging harness. The charge harness is equipped with light-emitting diode (LED) indicators that notify you when the battery needs tending. If you are not using the motorcycle for some lengthy period, make sure that you use an approved battery tender from Harley-Davidson. Avoid installing the battery over the winter or leaving it in the bike uncharged. If you want to avoid buying a permanent charger, consider removing the full battery and storing safely.
The effectiveness of your motorcycle’s braking system can save your life. You need precise bike stopping power with a powerful motorcycle like a Harley-Davidson. Important components of the braking system that need close monitoring include brake pads, discs, fluid, rotors, and lights. It is recommended that you check the brake pads after every 6,000 miles and if you often ride on hills or do lots of stop-and-go at traffic, check them more frequently.
When adding accessories to the bike, such as sidecars carrying a passage or load, always consider its load capacity. Confirm with your owner’s manual for the load capacity as that should never be exceeded. Experts recommend you do not use trailers with your Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
