A two-wheeler is your daily companion, your freedom machine and sometimes your weekend escape. Whether you drive a gearless scooter or a powerful motorcycle, taking good care of your vehicle can add years to its life and keep it running like new.
In this blog, we will explore practical and easy-to-follow tips to increase your bike’s lifespan. From riding habits to seasonal care, we will also touch upon how having the right bike insurance plays a crucial role in protecting your vehicle from unexpected troubles.
Riding habits that prolong two-wheeler life
Here are some tips for you bikers and motorcyclists to help you maintain your vehicle and maximise riding pleasure:
- Following the speed limit:For achieving better mileage, use the correct gear while riding and ride within the speed limits suggested by the manufacturer. The clutch should be used only for changing the gear. Less usage of the clutch increases fuel efficiency.
- Tyre type:One of the most crucial elements for ensuring safety while riding is the use of proper ty Ensure that you use only the type and size of tyres recommended by the two-wheeler manufacturer.
- Tuned engines:Engines that are regularly tuned are more efficient, i.e., they produce higher power for lower fuel consumption.
- Do not overload: Avoid putting too much weight on the bike or overloading it beyond the recommended weight because it puts pressure on the bike suspension and negatively affects performance.
Cleaning and storage tips for better durability
Regular cleaning and proper storage prevent corrosion and keep your bike looking and running like new. Clean your two-wheeler with soap water and a soft cloth, preferably a sponge, to avoid scratching the body. Always cover the ignition switch and silencer prior to cleaning so that water does not enter these parts. Give your two-wheeler a shiny look by cleaning it methodically and regularly.
Here are some tips to clean some specific components of the bike during routine cleaning and maintenance-
- Spark plugs:These are of paramount importance for combustion. They need to be cleaned every 750 km in two-stroke engines and every 1500 km in four-stroke engines.
- Engine oil:Check the engine oil levels in your two-wheeler and change it regularly to enhance engine performance. Unchanged oil leads to sluggish engine performance, thereby increasing fuel consumption. Tips on maintenance
- Air Filter: Clean the air filter for improved performance and mileage. Cleaning agents containing silicon or chlorine affect the brake performance. Avoid applying such agents on brake discs and brake shoes. Also, note that dousing these parts with water can reduce the braking efficiency. In case your two-wheeler has disc brakes, check the level of braking fluid in your vehicle once a week.
- Brake Pads: Also, keep a lookout for worn-out brake pads, as replacing these in time can save your brake discs from permanent damage. Watch out for any snarled or kinked cables in your two-wheeler. Likewise, missing nuts and bolts or a strong odour of fuel should not be ignored. Get the vehicle inspected immediately to fix such issues.
- Tyre maintenance:Get your mechanic to inspect any bulge or crack in the ty While driving at high speed, if you unexpectedly encounter a bump or hit a pothole, it might be a good idea to pull over and check the tires for signs of physical damage.
- Carburettor and Valves:Cleaning the carburettor and valves after every 1500 km is essential for a smoother engine.
- Parking:Exposure to sunlight dulls the body paint. As long as possible, park your vehicle under a shade.
Remember, damage from neglect is not always covered under comprehensive bike insurance, so it pays to maintain your ride properly.
Common mistakes that reduce your two-wheeler’s life
Even experienced riders make small mistakes that can lead to big problems over time. Here are some to avoid:
- Skipping regular servicing: Delayed maintenance can result in engine wear and performance loss.
- Using poor quality engine oil: Low-grade oil fails to protect engine components properly.
- Ignoring unusual sounds or vibrations: These could be early signs of mechanical issues.
- Employing the clutch as a footstool: It wears down the clutch plates unnecessarily.
- Running on low fuel regularly: This can overheat the fuel pump and cause long-term damage.
Avoiding these mistakes does not just improve performance, it also ensures that your bike insurance policy remains valid, as insurers may deny claims for damage caused by neglect.
Seasonal maintenance tips
Different seasons affect your two-wheeler differently. Here’s how to keep your bike ready year-round:
Monsoon care:
- Apply anti-rust spray on metal parts
- Check and replace worn-out tyres and brakes
- Ensure your headlight, tail light and indicators are working properly
Winter care:
- Warm up your engine before riding
- Check battery performance—cold can reduce its charge
- Clean and lubricate the chain to prevent stiffening
Summer care:
- Keep an eye on coolant levels if applicable
- Park in the shade to avoid fuel evaporation
- Check tyre pressure as heat can cause it to rise
Also, review your two-wheeler insurance policy before peak seasons, and consider add-ons that offer extended protection beyond standard third-party bike insurance.
Conclusion
Your two-wheeler can serve you well for many years if you take care of it the right way. Good riding habits, regular cleaning, seasonal maintenance and avoiding common mistakes are key to keeping your bike road-ready and reliable. Pair that with a solid bike insurance policy, and you’ve got peace of mind every time you ride.
FAQs
1. How often should I service my two-wheeler?
Ideally, every 3,000- 5,000 km or once every 3 to 6 months. Always follow your manufacturer’s service schedule for the best results.
2. Is third-party bike insurance enough to protect my vehicle?
Third-party insurance is mandatory by law and it provides liability protection against the injuries caused to others or damage to their properties by your bike. However, for your and your vehicle’s safety comprehensive bike insurance is better. It provides coverage for any harm caused to the owner and the vehicle.
3. What is the best way to store a bike for long periods?
The best way to store the bike is after cleaning it, inflating the tyres, removing the battery and covering it, before parking it in a dry and shaded area.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.