There are a lot of good things about owning a bike in Australia. The weather is almost always perfect for you to take it out for a spin whenever you want, there are a lot of big open roads where you can really let loose and feel the wind through your hair (or at least on your helmet), and there are plenty of bike shops as well. But, there are also a few problems that can come from the way the climate interacts with the bike and its components as well.
The heat for example doesn’t have a good effect on machinery in general (not just bikes), but the wind and dirt on the other hand are another matter entirely. These two can cause a problem in any vehicle or machine, but unlike a car, a bike has all of its moving parts in the open and at the mercy of the elements, which make it more susceptible to damage and corrosion. Luckily, as I said, there are plenty of shops for motorbike parts Australia residents can get replacement parts from, but only as a last resort.
If the damage is significant enough for you to have second thoughts about your safety while driving, then by all means immediately visit one of the many shops that specialize in motorbike parts Australia has to offer and put your mind at ease. I am in no way advocating for you to keep using defective or worn out parts, but rather the importance of looking after your bike so that they don’t get that way at least for quite a while.
First of all, the things you will be changing the most frequently are the engine oil and the oil filter, and while it is recommended to do both on a monthly basis, you may be able to get away with only changing the filter after every other oil change. Frequently check for any leaks and always keep a close eye on the fluid levels. Make sure that the hydraulic systems are at the proper pressure, that the brake discs work properly and aren’t worn out and inspect the chain and belt tension. You will also need to run some tests on the electrical systems and the cables to make sure they are all functioning as they should be. For extra measure, check for any loose bolts or components, especially in the the steering stem, axle and handlebars.
It’s important to note that while these may be common inspection points and maintenance tips that are the easiest to do, not everyone‘s level of skill is the same and if you are unsure of yourself, you should take it to a mechanic and have them do it for you, as they will have to do the more advanced diagnostics anyway. Also keep in mind that not every bike is the same, nor is everyone’s style of driving, so recommended maintenance times aside, if something doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to take it to a garage.
