Keeping your bike in prime condition is essential for any Harley enthusiast. Whether you’re tackling a cross-country tour, hitting the asphalt on a Sunday cruise or just riding around town, maximising your Harley Davidson’s longevity and performance requires proper maintenance and upkeep.
From protecting against rust to performing regular oil changes, simple measures can make all the difference in preserving your beloved ride. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how to best care for your Harley Davidson motorcycle so that it will keep running strong day after day.
5 Care Tips For Your Harley Davidson Motorcycle
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Check the Battery
When checking the battery for your Harley Davidson motorcycle, you should inspect both the physical condition of the battery and its electrical connections. Make sure that the terminals are clean, tight and free from corrosion.
To test if a battery is still in good working condition, use a voltmeter to measure the voltage output. This should be between 12.5-12.8 volts when the engine is off and should be between 13.5-14.2 volts when the engine is running. If the battery voltage is low, it may need to be replaced or recharged before further use. Also check for any signs of damage such as bulging, leaking, or cracks in the casing which could indicate that the battery needs to be replaced.
Taking good care of your motorcycle’s battery is essential for a safe and reliable ride. Regular battery checks should be conducted to make sure the engine is performing at its best. Regularly inspecting the battery’s terminals and connections will help detect any issues early on and prevent problems from arising in the future.
Inspecting, testing and replacing your Harley Davidson’s battery will help ensure that it is always in top condition. With periodic maintenance and care, your motorcycle battery can last for many years.
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Change the Oil
When it comes to maintaining your Harley Davidson motorcycle, one of the most important components is the oil.
Keeping your engine properly lubricated is essential for keeping it running smoothly and efficiently. Without it, parts can become overheated and worn prematurely, leading to costly repairs or worse—an engine breakdown.
Changing the oil in your Harley Davidson motorcycle regularly is the best way to keep it running like new. First, make sure you have all of the necessary supplies and tools on hand including an oil drain pan, a ratchet wrench and socket set, an oil filter wrench, fresh Harley-Davidson oil (the type and amount will depend on your motorcycle’s model), and a new oil filter. Next, make sure to warm up the engine before draining the old oil by running it for several minutes. Then, use the ratchet wrench and socket set to loosen the drain plug on the bottom of the motor, then turn it out until the oil starts dripping out. Place the drain pan beneath the bike to catch all of the old oil as it drains out, then replace the drain plug.
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Inspect the Belts and Chains
When inspecting your Harley Davidson motorcycle’s belts and chains, look for any signs of wear or damage.
Check the tension on the belts and chains by pushing down firmly on them and checking to see if they move too easily; if there is too much slack, it may indicate a need for adjustment or replacement.
You should also check the alignment of all belts and chains, as misalignment could cause them to wear out prematurely. Look for any signs of fraying or cracking on the rubber surfaces of the belts, as well as any rust or corrosion on the metal components. Make sure to also check for any missing or loose nuts or bolts that secure the belts and chains in place, and take note of any loud noises or rattling coming from the belts and chains, as this could indicate an issue that needs to be resolved.
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Clean and Lubricate
When it comes to maintaining your Harley Davidson motorcycle, one of the most important steps is regularly cleaning and lubricating various components. Cleaning helps prevent corrosion, while lubrication helps ensure that parts move freely and don’t become overly worn or damaged.
To clean and lubricate your motorcycle, you should start by inspecting all of the parts to identify any that are damaged or excessively dirty. If you find any issues, they should be addressed or replaced before proceeding with cleaning and lubrication.
Once your inspection is complete, use a clean cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris from all surfaces. Next, apply a light coating of machine oil on all metal components like the engine, transmission and drivetrain. For the chain and sprockets, use a specialised lubricant specifically designed for motorcycles. Once all of the parts are coated in oil or lubricant, use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess material.
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Store Safely
Motorcycle owners are responsible for taking steps to keep their bikes safe. If you own a Harley Davidson motorcycle, there are several things you can do to ensure its safety and security. Choosing the right storage location is key, and here are some tips on how to store your Harley Davidson motorcycle safely.
First, make sure that the storage location you choose has sufficient space to accommodate your motorcycle. It should also be free of debris that could damage its parts or cause an accident. The area should be well-lit and have a lockable gate or door so that it can’t be accessed by the general public.
Covering your bike will also help to protect it from dirt, dust, and debris, and it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality lock to secure your Harley Davidson motorcycle when it is not in use.
Looking After Your Motorcycle
It’s important to remember that taking care of your Harley Davidson not only makes it look good and run better, but also extends its life.
Regular maintenance of the engine, cables, brakes, suspension, exhaust, air filter and fluid levels are essential for a smooth ride every time you go out on the road. Setting up a regular maintenance schedule for yourself can save you from frustrations down the road.
