Maintenance Schedule for Motorcycle Wear Parts
Release Date:
2019-09-23
Wear parts are components with a relatively short service life; if they are not replaced in a timely manner, they can not only damage the motorcycle but also compromise riding safety. So, how often should these wear parts be replaced?
Different brands have varying warranty periods for wear-and-tear parts, ranging from a minimum of three months to one year, or from 3,000 kilometers to 20,000 kilometers. Because it can be difficult to determine the cause of damage to these components, their warranty periods are typically much shorter than the vehicle’s overall warranty; for example, it is often hard to ascertain whether damage to glass, light bulbs, wiper blades, or brake pads was caused by improper use by the owner.
1. Brake pads
Replacement interval: approximately 30,000 kilometers!
The quality of brake pads directly affects the safety of everyone in the vehicle and must never be overlooked. For motorcycles with disc brakes, the front brake pads should be inspected and replaced every 15,000 kilometers, while the rear brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 kilometers. If you tend to apply the brakes aggressively during riding, the brake pads will wear out more quickly; in such cases, it’s advisable to replace the front pads after about 10,000 kilometers. It’s also recommended to inspect the brake pads every 5,000 kilometers. New brake pads typically have a thickness of around 1 centimeter; when visual inspection reveals that their remaining thickness has dwindled to about one-third of the original—roughly 0.3 centimeters—be prepared to replace them immediately. In addition, brake rotors are more wear-resistant than brake pads; therefore, they should be replaced every two to three sets of brake pads.
2. Battery
Replacement interval: 30,000 km or 2–3 years!
Although a motorcycle’s operation does result in some battery discharge, it also charges the battery at the same time. Once the engine is turned off, however, the battery stops charging and begins to discharge instead, accelerating the evaporation and loss of electrolyte. Leaving the battery as the sole power source for the audio system for an extended period after the engine is off also places additional strain on it. Typically, a new vehicle’s original battery can last more than three years; if yours has already been in use for nearly two years, it’s worth paying close attention.
3. Spark Plug
Replacement interval: 10,000–20,000 kilometers!
Spark plugs can cause difficulty starting the engine when it’s cold, jerking or hesitation during driving, idle shake, reduced acceleration and lack of power, as well as increased fuel consumption. Nickel–copper spark plugs typically last 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers, while platinum- or iridium-based spark plugs can last 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If a vehicle owner purchases new spark plugs, they can either clean and maintain them themselves or replace them with new ones.
4. Tires
Replacement interval: 30,000–40,000 kilometers!
Tires are the most wear-prone component of any vehicle, and the part that contacts the road surface is particularly prone to accidents. This risk is especially high when driving on highways or mountain roads, posing significant safety hazards. Typically, tires should be replaced every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers; however, if the tread has reached the wear indicator, they should be replaced sooner. When driving under normal conditions, try to stay on smooth, even surfaces to prolong tire life.
5. Drive Belt and Chainring Chain
Replace the belt every 50,000 km or 4 years; replace the crankset and chain every 2 years or 20,000 km!
Because the drive belt employs continuously variable transmission, it experiences relatively lower impact forces, thereby extending its replacement interval; in contrast, the crankset and chain, being used on geared bicycles, endure greater impact and wear, necessitating more frequent replacements.
6. Engine oil, gear oil
When it’s time for a change, the interval depends on whether the oil is mineral-based or synthetic: mineral oil should be changed every 3,000 km, while fully synthetic oil can last up to 5,000 km. As for the gasoline filter, externally mounted filters typically need replacing every 10,000–20,000 km, whereas integrated fuel-pump-and-filter units are recommended to be replaced every 60,000 km.
Gear oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers.
7. Air Filter
Replacement cycle: one year!
The frequency of air filter replacement primarily depends on the external environment. Under normal conditions, the air filter should be serviced every 10,000 kilometers or about once a year. However, if you frequently drive in areas with severe smog, it’s best to replace the filter every six months or every 70,000 kilometers.
8. Brake Fluid
Replacement interval: 50,000 km or 2 years!
Expired brake fluid can emulsify and degrade, ultimately leading to reduced braking performance or even complete brake failure. It is a misconception to assume that if the brake fluid has not turned dark and the brakes do not feel spongy, there is no need to replace it. The quality and performance of brake fluid should be regularly inspected in accordance with climate, environmental conditions, seasonal changes, and operating conditions. As a general rule, brake fluid should be replaced every two years or after 50,000 kilometers of use; when replacing, be sure to determine whether the fluid is DOT 4 or DOT 3.
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