So I bought a used motorcycle★ Where do you start?
Let’s say it’s in above-average condition with about 10,000 kilometers on it.
Everything is worn evenly and appropriately for the mileage.
It’s tough to decide, right? There’s so much to think about… I’d love to swap the exhaust, or replace the master cylinder…
But first, the most important thing is being able to ride it comfortably.
Point 1: Group nearby work together for better labor rates★
If you want to grease the stem bearings, swap out the fork oil at the same time★
If the stem bearings need an OH, do the forks too★ You can manage everything together!
If you’re pulling the tank, you might as well do the air cleaner, spark plugs, and synchronization if you can—even better!
Point 2: Don’t skimp on tires♪
Tires these days are really expensive! I wish they’d become more affordable.
Cheap out on tires and crash, and you’re easily looking at 50,000 to 100,000 yen in damage. Plus if you get hurt, it’s a real problem.
In summer the road temperature is high so it’s not as bad, but when it’s cold, one mistake and you’re down!
Learn before you get hurt!
Point 3: Don’t skimp on engine oil either♪
A common situation is when the mileage hasn’t gone up much but time has passed★ The color still looks clean, so you think it’s fine♪
But… don’t cut corners here either! Yes! I don’t think expensive oil is always better, but expensive oil has
a reason for its price. The difference between 200-yen soy sauce and 1,500-yen soy sauce is way more than just the price tag.
When the mileage is low, you won’t see the difference… but when you’ve ridden 30,000, 50,000, or 80,000 kilometers, that difference will definitely show.
Point 4: Braking power over acceleration■
You can get speed by opening the throttle, but stopping isn’t so easy. That’s where tires come in★
With cheap tires, even the best brakes will slip and you’ll go sliding.
And cheap pads are exactly what you pay for—nothing more.
I want you to know how much fun and peace of mind come from brakes you can trust.
Point 5: Comfortable positioning♪
Levers that hang too low, pegs that sit too high, throttle with too much play—all terrible.
Brake lever positioned so you can grab it easily and quickly! Rear brake pedal positioned so you can hit it instantly when you need to!
A throttle where you can’t feel the opening becomes on-off, making your riding rough. Just reduce the play and add some lube
and your bike will feel faster.
Well, I could go on forever, so I’ll stop here… you’ve got to balance it with your budget anyway!
If I were doing this myself, I’d start with…
Engine oil and filter change, tire change (definitely new valve stems too!), brake pad change (sintered
metal) and fluid flush, air cleaner and spark plugs, lever and pedal position adjustment.
After that comes chain, sprockets, and damper work, then fork, stem, linkage—moving into the heavier maintenance.
When you can ride, you should ride. When you can’t, that’s maintenance time!
Pokidam
