Motorcycle Maintenance Myths Busted

While today’s motorcycles are exquisitely engineered and impressively reliable vehicles, there is a basic level of maintenance required to keep a bike running and running well. 

While this is a matter of common sense, some of the particulars are not, as a number of persistent myths regarding motorcycle maintenance continue to cling to life.

If you want to keep your ride rolling, it’s best to debunk those myths and treat your bike right. In fact, let’s take down a number of those misconceptions right now:

Myth #1: All Repairs = $$$

Some riders will tend to put off or simply bypass recommended maintenance – and even look the other way when it comes to minor issues – for fear that every trip to a mechanic is going to hit them hard in the wallet.

The fact is, routine maintenance is a money saver, preventing bigger and more costly problems that will require a larger investment to correct and lower the resale value of your motorcycle. 

Myth #2: Always Leave it to Experts

You’ll save even more money if you’re able to perform basic checks and simple maintenance on your own. While motorcycles continue to get increasingly advanced, there are still a number of areas where even a DIYer with minimal training can readily execute simple maintenance and fixes.

And once you take that first step, you’ll find yourself rapidly growing your skills and confidence, allowing you to perform more complex tasks as you go.

Better yet, there are a wealth of remarkable specific tutorials and examples available online that will help you acquire and develop those talents.

Myth #3: High Octane Fuel or Bust

Some riders believe that they should always use high octane fuel and that it will result in improved performance. The reality is, unless your motorcycle is specifically designed to use high octane fuel, not only will you derive no benefits from its use, it could actually cause damage to your engine.

Save your cash and stick to your bike’s recommended fuel grade.

Myth #4: Warm That Thing Up

This one has its roots in reality, but today’s technology has largely rendered it a relic of the past. While a brief warm-up period helps the oil circulate, modern bikes are designed to go almost immediately. 

In fact, idling too long can actually cause its own issues, including oil dilution and carbon buildup.

Myth #5: Oil Quality is in the Eye of the Beholder

There is a misconception that you can tell whether or not an oil change is required simply by looking at the oil. In this line of thinking, dark and dirty means it’s time for a change while clean-looking oil is good to go.

That’s not the case. Oil degrades over time, even if it still appears clean and new. 

Looks can be deceiving. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals.

Myth #6a: OEM Parts are Always Preferred

Myth #6b: Aftermarket Parts are Always Preferred

The truth is, each has its place. If you want a guaranteed perfect fit or indistinguishable replacement, you can’t beat OEM, almost by definition.

However, if you’re actively seeking upgraded performance or, by contrast, cheaper alternatives, that’s why aftermarket options exist.

It’s about determining when and why you want to go either route. 

Myth #7: See Ya Next Summer!

Many riders think if they have their bike covered and garaged, they are all set for the winter. However, it’s not quite that easy.

If you expect your bike to pick up where it left off months earlier, you’ll need to execute a few simple maintenance tasks, including the application of a battery tender and a fuel stabilizer.