Are You a Dirt Track Auto Racer Who Loves Motorcycles?

Are any of you dirt track auto racing fans motorcycle lovers?  If you are, you know that just like your favorite dirt track car or dirt bike, motorcycles take quite a bit of maintenance to keep them up and running in the most efficient way possible.  It's very important to take care of these vehicles because it is even more costly to allow them to break down completely.

Preventative maintenance is the first step in avoiding costly repairs.  It's not hard and you don't even need to write any of the steps down once you go through the process a few times.

1.  A very simple step is to keep your bike clean.  Just take a microfiber cloth or other soft cloth and wipe off the dust on a regular basis.  If your bike is really dirty, give it a bike bath.  Wipe it down with water or use a mild cleaning solution made specifically for vehicles.  If you keep your bike clean, it will perform better.  Polish it once or twice a month to give it a little bit more love. 

2.  Like a fine dirt track modified car, you need to check your oil levels.  Make sure your bike is parked.  Check the levels and watch for a change in oil color and fluidity.  Take a look around your motorcycle to make sure you have no leaks.

3.  Check your brakes and clutch regularly and change the linings before they are too worn, especially if you have been on a long ride or trip.

4.  Take care of your battery.  Make sure you check your battery terminals and the water levels in the battery.

5.  Make sure your headlights and tail lights are working well.

6.  Check your tire pressure and tire tread.  Remember that when it's hot, the pressure may be off so take that into consideration.

7.  Turn on your bike and let the engine idle.  Listen to it purr.  If it's not purring or sounding like your used to, turn it off after a few minutes and do another double check.  This short time period will send oil throughout the cylinders and pistons so they can work by a well oiled machine. 

8.  Repair or replace any motorcycle parts that are broken, immediately.

9.  Continue on a regular maintenance plan for the best results regardless of whether you drive a dirt track car, a dirt bike, or a motorcycle.