Do You Really Need to Service a Motorcycle That You Rarely Ride?

Even a motorcycle that hasn’t been used for a long time can develop problems if not properly maintained. Find out why servicing is still important even if your motorcycle is rarely used.

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For some people, motorcycles are used every day to get to work or run errands. However, there are also those who only use them on weekends, for leisure activities, or as a second motorcycle. Because they are rarely ridden, some owners think they don’t need to send their motorcycles in for service as long as they can still be started.

Actually, that assumption is not accurate. Even though a motorcycle doesn’t get ridden much, some important components will still experience changes over time. Engine oil can lose quality, batteries can lose charge, tires lose air pressure, and rubber components can also start to harden or crack.

So, do motorcycles that are rarely used still need to be serviced? The answer is yes. Here are some reasons why regular servicing is still important.

1. Engine Oil Will Lose Quality

Some people think that engine oil only needs to be changed when the motorcycle has reached a certain mileage. While mileage plays an important role, time also needs to be taken into account.

Engine oil that is left for too long will start to lose its ability to protect engine components from friction and heat. In addition, moisture accumulated in the engine can also affect the quality of the oil if the motorcycle is left parked for long periods of time.

For this reason, many manufacturers recommend changing engine oil at certain intervals even if the motorcycle is not used much.

2. The Battery May Be Weak or Run Out of Charge

Motorcycle batteries will slowly lose charge even when the motorcycle is not being used. If the motorcycle is left for too long without being started, you may encounter problems when you want to use it again.

Some of the early signs of a weak battery are difficulty starting the engine, dimmed lights or a slower starter sound. In some cases, the battery may need to be recharged or replaced if it has not been used for too long.

Starting the motorcycle occasionally and taking it for short rides can help maintain the battery’s condition.

3. Tires Lose Air Pressure

Even if the motorcycle is just parked at home, the tire pressure will still decrease little by little. If left for too long, the tires will be under-inflated and it will affect the handling of the motorcycle when it is used again.

Apart from that, tires that bear load in the same position for a long period of time can also experience deformation, especially if the air pressure is too low.

Before riding, make sure the tire pressure is checked and is at the level recommended by the manufacturer.

4. Chains and Metal Components Can Rust

Chains, disc brakes and several other metal components can start to rust if a motorcycle is left for too long, especially if it is stored in a damp area.

A dry or rusty chain not only reduces the smoothness of the ride, but can also accelerate wear on the chain and sprockets.

Cleaning and lubricating the chain regularly is one of the simple steps that can help ensure that your motorcycle is always in good condition even if it is rarely used.

5. Periodic Servicing Helps Detect Problems Earlier

Even though your motorcycle can still be started and ridden, that doesn’t mean everything is in perfect condition. Sometimes small problems like oil leaks, worn out brake pads or a weak battery go unnoticed until they become more serious.

By performing regular servicing, technicians can thoroughly inspect the condition of the motorcycle and identify any problems before they cause greater damage.

This approach not only helps reduce the risk of damage later on, but can also save on repair costs in the long run.

How Often A Motorcycle Need To Be Serviced If It Is Rarely Used?

There is no specific answer that fits all motorcycles as it depends on the model and manufacturer’s recommendations. However, as a general guide, you should still follow the maintenance schedule stated in the manual, even if the motorcycle has not reached high mileage.

If your motorcycle hasn’t been serviced for several months, or you’re not sure when it was last serviced, it’s better to check first before using it regularly.

Conclusion

Motorcycles that are rarely used still require the same care and maintenance as those used every day. Neglecting servicing just because of low mileage can lead to problems such as weak batteries, poor engine oil quality, under-inflated tires and components that start to wear out without you noticing.

If your motorcycle has not been serviced for a long time or is only used occasionally, iMotorbike Express Service is here to help. Our technicians can carry out a thorough inspection and perform the necessary maintenance to ensure your motorcycle is always in top condition and ready to ride at any time. Visit the iMotorbike Express Service website to make an appointment and have your motorcycle serviced with us.