Maintaining your bike.

[Duke girl]

I am interested in finding out how many bike owners do their own maintenance on their bike/bikes and how many take their bikes to their local bike mechanic?.
Like changing oil, air filters, tyres, chains etc.
Also if you maintain your bike yourself, how and where did you get your knowledge from?.

[vifferman]

I am interested in finding out how many bike owners do their own maintenance on their bike/bikes and how many take their bikes to their local bike mechanic?.
Like changing oil, air filters, tyres, chains etc.
Also if you maintain your bike yourself, how and where did you get your knowledge from?.
Where's your poll? :Pokey:
Even though motorcycling's not a democracy, you have to have a poll. This is KB after all....

I do much of my own maintenance, partly to save money, and partly because I don't have a great deal of trust for the average mechanic, as he/she is usually under pressure to get the work done quickly, so may not take care with fairing fasteners, not scratching things, etc. They may also (and this might surprise you) not have speicalist knowledge about how to do things, such as a throttle body synchronisation on a VFR.
I've had some bad experiences with workshops: scratched rims, overtorqued fairing fasteners (they're relatively expensive, and don't respond well to having pneumatic tools used on them to save time!), work charged for but not done, wrong parts fitted, instructions not followed, etc.

There are some things I don't do, like changing tyres. I can change a tyre and have done in the past, but can't be bothered, as I don't currently have any proper tyre changing tools, can't be bothered having to dispose of the old tyres, and so would rather pay someone else to do it.
Same with chains'n'sprockets: I don't have a chain breaking/rivetting tool, so the bikes I've owned which had rivetted links (only the current one, and one other), I've got a workshop to do it. Then they can dispose of the chain and sporckets, get their hands greasy, etc.
I do change my own fluids, parts, etc.

How did I learn? By getting the information from workshop manuals, other people, and forums, then getting in and giving it a go. I am pretty handy, which is a disadvantage in some ways, because sometimes if I can't do a job myself, or can't be bothered doing it, then I don't pay someone else to do it, but just leave it. Like currently my heated grips don't work, because my brain's not functioning properly and it seems like too much trouble to chase up the fault.
Like my bike hasn't had the valve clearances checked in over 4 years because it's a time-consuming job and I'm lacking motivation to get started on it. (Luckily VFR's valve clearances are very rarely out of spec).
Like the VFR's overdue for a throttle body synchronisation because while it's an easy job, it's somewhat time-consuming and my vacuum gauges aren't accurate enough to do it.
Like my fuel filter probably needs changing, but it means that I can only do it when the fuel tank's nearly empty AND it's a weekend when I have time to do it AND I have the parts available.

Here's stuff YOU can do, that's easy, cheap, and you shouldn't pay someone else to do; all you need is some basic tools (in most cases those that came with your bike will be sufficient):
Oil and filter changes.
Change sparkplugs.
Clean and/or change the air filter.
Chain adjustment and cleaning.
Change blown bulbs.
Adjust and oil/grease moving parts such as levers.
Idle mixture and speed adjustment (if you have a carburetted bike).
Replacing parts such as the battery, fairing panels, footpegs, any screws or nuts'n'bolts that need replacing, brake pads, brake/clutch fluid.

At most you may need to buy a couple of screwdrivers, a socket set (or just the sockets you need), a few combination spanners, an oil drain pan, and some lubricants and cleaners. Specialist tools (such as torque wrenches, vacuum gauges, odd-sized sockets you rarely use, multimeters, etc.) you can often borrow. Advice is freely given, but sometimes worthless or wrong, so weigh it up or ask more questions if unsure.

[Pwalo]

I'm pretty well with the Vifferman on this one. Anything that doesn't involve opening the engine, or replacing tyres or chains I do myself. I really prefer to have my m/cycle mechanic (who I trust and has worked on my bikes for the last ten years or so) to do valve adjustments, as he seems to have a fully equipped workshop rather than a carport to work in.

Modern owners manuals are surprisingly helpful, and with a relatively modest selection of decent tools you can handle most routine maintenance.

Mind you it's probably helpful to have been riding for 35 odd years. You'll only get confidence by doing the simple jobs like adjusting the chain, and working up. Paitience is the big thing.

[vifferman]

I'm pretty well with the Vifferman on this one. Anything that doesn't involve opening the engine, or replacing tyres or chains I do myself.
Actually... I have done several jobs more complicated than that.
On the VFR750 I had, I pulled the carbs apart and shimmed the needles, took the muffler off and modified the baffles, completely rewired the charging system loom when the R/R died, did a few other things like that.

On the VTR1000, I replaced the throttle position sensor (after I broke it), shimmed the carb needles, replaced the camchain tensioners with manual APE ones, overhauled the brake calipers, fitted braided brake lines, converted the airfilter to a Unifilter by cutting out the element and replacing it with Uni foam, and fitted a new (non-standard) R/R.

On the current bike, I did the Unifilter mode; fitted a FactoryPro Evo Star shifter kit, which meant taking out part of the gearlever mechanism to fit the new bits; took off the clutch cover and repaired a crack in it; fitted a few electrical/electronic bits into the wiring (electronic speedo corrector, gargre door opener, additional dual horns, rewired the heated grips, fitted an accessory fusebox); fitted a new rear shock and fork springs; took the swingarm off to fit new footpeg brackets (they bolt on under the swingarm bolt); replaced the standard front indicators with flushmount ones.

Future work includes taking off fairings, the tank, airbox and some other stuff to check the valve clearances; replacing the fuel filter (it lives inside the fuel tank); pulling the gearbox apart to replace some bits; modifying the clutch; stripping all bodywork off to get it repainted; stripping and polishing the wheels; replacing the front damper units. I may need to replace the waterpump some time soon(ish) too, as it's a part that doesn't last forever.

[Taz]

I do all my own work and some for friends. Self taught mechanic.

[Pwalo]

Actually... I have done several jobs more complicated than that.
On the VFR750 I had, I pulled the carbs apart and shimmed the needles, took the muffler off and modified the baffles, completely rewired the charging system loom when the R/R died, did a few other things like that.

On the VTR1000, I replaced the throttle position sensor (after I broke it), shimmed the carb needles, replaced the camchain tensioners with manual APE ones, overhauled the brake calipers, fitted braided brake lines, converted the airfilter to a Unifilter by cutting out the element and replacing it with Uni foam, and fitted a new (non-standard) R/R.

On the current bike, I did the Unifilter mode; fitted a FactoryPro Evo Star shifter kit, which meant taking out part of the gearlever mechanism to fit the new bits; took off the clutch cover and repaired a crack in it; fitted a few electrical/electronic bits into the wiring (electronic speedo corrector, gargre door opener, additional dual horns, rewired the heated grips, fitted an accessory fusebox); fitted a new rear shock and fork springs; took the swingarm off to fit new footpeg brackets (they bolt on under the swingarm bolt); replaced the standard front indicators with flushmount ones.

Future work includes taking off fairings, the tank, airbox and some other stuff to check the valve clearances; replacing the fuel filter (it lives inside the fuel tank); pulling the gearbox apart to replace some bits; modifying the clutch; stripping all bodywork off to get it repainted; stripping and polishing the wheels; replacing the front damper units. I may need to replace the waterpump some time soon(ish) too, as it's a part that doesn't last forever.

If it's inside the cases I still prefer to get a trained professional to do it. I reckon that I've done enough such stuff over time to let someone else (who I know will do a good job) do it. I can afford it, and I don't have a proper garage or workshop.

Besides the maintenance schedule on a modern bike isn't exactly a burden.

Still love cleaning, lubing and fiddling with my baby (oh, and the bike as well).

[keithbuckby]

I do all my own, mainly for financial reasons, just finished changing the head gasket, managed to break 2 studs as they were being torqued down, so thats what I am doing this weekend, lots of fun.

[The Pastor]

i do most of it bymyself, probably want the mech to do the valves, if i ever do them :P maybe at 100 000k

[Hiflyer]

anyone know the service intervals for a hyosung gt250r? other than "never" and other pointless posts haha, help would be appreciated, i had a service done at 1000, 6000 and 12500 and now 18500 just tryna do every 6000kms, i change the oil myself every 4000kms cos im anal.


but yea anyone have teh official schedule?

[Taz]

anyone know the service intervals for a hyosung gt20r? other than "never" and other pointless posts haha, help would be appreciated, i had a service done at 1000, 6000 and 12500 and now 18500 just tryna do every 6000kms, i change the oil myself every 4000kms cos im anal.


but yea anyone have teh official schedule?

GT20R is that their pit bike? Pointless post I know but shouldn't you start your own thread or read your owners manual or search google?? :)

[Hiflyer]

GT20R is that their pit bike? Pointless post I know but shouldn't you start your own thread or read your owners manual or search google?? :)

. . . . . . . shhh haha

soz m8 but i was much to lazy to use google or a search engine,

i just wanna fit in with the KB crowd :woohoo::woohoo:


thats why i didnt use google

[EJT]

anyone know the service intervals for a hyosung gt250r? other than "never" and other pointless posts haha, help would be appreciated, i had a service done at 1000, 6000 and 12500 and now 18500 just tryna do every 6000kms, i change the oil myself every 4000kms cos im anal.


but yea anyone have teh official schedule?

Pretty sure it is less than 6000k but can't remember when I did mine.

[AllanB]

The shop does the specified servicing until the factory warranty expires.

Then I'll do the oil, filters, plugs etc. They will do valve timing (but that's every 24,000 kms!).

Tyres - I remove the wheels and take them to the tyre shop - I do this as it gives me a good chance to have a big clean up on the bike when the wheels are off.

I would have to say I would not like to be paying myself by the hour when I work on my bike - I take my time, and most jobs take twice as long as I thought they would :innocent:

[Hiflyer]

Pretty sure it is less than 6000k but can't remember when I did mine.

shit. . . . well mine runs fine every 6k km's. . . will look for my manual asap then

[Patch]

shit. . . . well mine runs fine every 6k km's. . . will look for my manual asap then
unless you have your oil tested - your assuming your oil is fine, a manufacturer's recommendation is simply that - a recommendation.


Read this for Oil Specs (http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/faq.php?faq=haas_articles) if you understand it completely, then one is probably well qualified to have an opinion on said matter

The Oil companies do have an 0800 technical service centre for such purposes, if one is unsure.

[CookMySock]

I do all my own work and some for friends. Self taught mechanic.Ditto. I'm starting to worry about what I break though - it gets expensive.

Basics like oil and filters - you just need to be shown these things. It's real easy once you have seen it done.

Taking the tank off - not hard, but have to be shown.

Removing and replacing fairings - a little more complex, but not rocket science.

Removing a wheel to take to town to get a tyre fixed - more advanced, easy to make a mistake and drop the bike, or put something back wrong and damage the brakes.

You can learn it all if you want - just find someone local who is willing to show you, and doesn't hurry you.


Steve

[TimeOut]

anyone know the service intervals for a hyosung gt250r? other than "never" and other pointless posts haha, help would be appreciated, i had a service done at 1000, 6000 and 12500 and now 18500 just tryna do every 6000kms, i change the oil myself every 4000kms cos im anal.


but yea anyone have teh official schedule?

I thought the 250 was 4000kms service intervals

I do most of my maintainance, even while under warrantee except the first service and anything inside the motor (just had the tappets checked today, all within limits) take the wheels in for tyre changes.

As Vifferman said you can take your time and do it right.

[awayatc]

what's a garage...?

If you haven't got female charm, you need:

1 Workshop manual
2 workshop manual
3 workshop manual
4 internet

Oh and did I mention you need a workshop manual?
AND you need at least one more mode of transport........
(coz getting the job done/getting parts etc takes time...)

Probably easier to con some gullible into "giving you a hand".....

[rosie631]

what's a garage...?

If you haven't got female charm, you need:

1 Workshop manual
2 workshop manual
3 workshop manual
4 internet

Oh and did I mention you need a workshop manual?
AND you need at least one more mode of transport........
(coz getting the job done/getting parts etc takes time...)

Probably easier to con some gullible into "giving you a hand".....

Did you mean lil ol me kind sir? Lol

[Gremlin]

yeup, lets see...

- I fill mine with gas
- I ride it
- I check the tyre pressures
- I even top up the oil when it gets used

Then it goes to the shop for everything else :lol:

To me, every time I think about the possibilities of working on the bike, the word suicide pops into my head. Best I leave it to the shop. :2thumbsup

[elevenhundred]

For me part of the enjoyment of owning a bike is being able to work on it.
I do everything I have the tools for.
As a job appears I'll buy the tools to do it, I'm not a qualified mechanic but I spent a year fixing bikes in a workshop.
My bike will only go to the shop for warrants and tyres, oh and in future for dyno time also.

[roadracingoldfart]

I am interested in finding out how many bike owners do their own maintenance on their bike/bikes and how many take their bikes to their local bike mechanic?.
Like changing oil, air filters, tyres, chains etc.
Also if you maintain your bike yourself, how and where did you get your knowledge from?.


I dont get a chance to work on my own bike , i have too many crash jobs in the garage Aye Scracha

I do almost all my own work on the racebike but i spend all my day working on cars so bikes are a way to relax from the droll days.

I get others to do my tyres for me as i dont like doing them and they can do it when I want lol.

I didnt get any knowlege from my Dad as when i met him 3 years ago i found he has trouble finding the fuel cap so he buys a new car every few years to save getting a repair job out of warranty lol. I guess i just had to learn for cost cutting reasons, now i am a workshop foreman - :bash: :wacko:

Its been a funny old day ......


Paul.

[scracha]

During my 5 or so years as a poor student, I wasted hours working on motorcycles in the street and often* ended up causing more damage than the money I'd saved.

During my debt ridden first few jobs (student loans y' see) I saved lots of money by buying nice reliable japanese middleweight 4 strokes, warming them up properly and basically just not servicing them.

Based on these formative years, I've came to realise that the whole "change your oil every 3000km" and "check valves every 6000 miles" thing is just a big con by the motorcycle servicing industry. I had a couple of yamaha's that had been around the clock, owned them both for over 3 years and they were lucky to get an oil change once a year. Nothing went wrong with them

I'm proper useless at anything practical and it's not through want of trying. Put a spanner in my hand and I'm most likely to strip threads. I adjust my chain and the only other job I insist on doing myself is brake pads and stripping and cleaning my calipers as on 2 occasions I've spent a fortune at motorcycle garages and had seals blow or brake pad retaining pins fall out for lack of a bloody split pin.

Stick to what you enjoy. If you get good at it you can then pay people who enjoy working on motorcycles. Hopefully they're as good at fixing your bike as you are at doing the job you enjoy. That way everthing gets done properly and everyone is doing something they enjoy.

For me, part of the enjoyment of owning a bike is not having to work on it.

*nearly always
127913

[rosie631]

I'm trying to do as much work on my bike as I can. Not easy to start with but it seems to get a bit easier with each little job you do.
You need someone who knows what they're doing to show you to start with. Definitely need workshop manual specific to your bike. And need a fair amount of tools. I have been managing by borrowing at the moment, but as soon as I've paid for my drive belt job, I will be investing in some good quality tools. Things like changing oil and filter are pretty simple. You could easily do that. Most things just a matter of taking your time and working methodically. And having someone who doesn't mind giving help and advice.

[Ixion]

I do most things on bikes. Not tyres, cos I hate them. Anything else. Not so much on cars. Could if I need to , but cars always seem to involve grovelling under the bloody things with a sharp metal bit 1 mm from your nose and then getting a torrent of hot oil in your face. Now, if I had a hoist .... , course I'd have to raise the grage roof a bit ......

My father was a motor mechanic, all his mates were in the trade or related. Until I was in my 20s I just assumed that everybody did their own work.

(EDIT: I hate hydraulics, too. And exhausts. And bloody carburettors. And cam chains. And spark plugs. And welch plugs. and radiators and cooling systems. Especially cooling systems. But they ain't so easy as tyres to farm out.)

[Max Preload]

I can't see the point in owning a bike unless you do most of the work to maintain it yourself - that's half the fun.

[Motu]

I get a professional mechanic to do all the repairs on my bikes - I'd trust him with my life.....and my wife.

[LBD]

I started tinkering at a very young age, pulling things apart at about 10. Technical studies at school, and then mechanical trades study. So I guess I have always had a mechanical bent. Did all my own maintenance for many years, now I rely on others to maintain my bike, mainly because of time constraints to do it all my self...

Given the chance and time I would be back doing it myself....for me,its all part of the bike owning experience, and relaxing if its unpressured and all goes well.

[browny]

im the same asLBD really, mechanically minded. also a car mechanic and i add car because because they arent alike when you pull them down.so everything i know about my bike is self taught& out of manuels etc.needless to say i do all my own maintenance,from full rebuilds to trye changes. i might add tho,there jobs that only specialists can do ie. pressing crank pins ,crank assembly in other words.

[no_8wire]

Having fully rebuilt car engines for a hobby, as well as gearboxes etc, I am going to assume that maintenance on a bike isnt going to be to much trouble.
But manuals are lifesavers, esp if you can get the factory workshop ones. :niceone:

Carbs I would leave to the shop as all I know is injection :no: