Did you know that even a new motorcycle engine can quickly break down if not properly maintained? In fact, there have been cases where a new motorcycle, after only a month of use, had to be sent to the workshop for an overhaul because the engine was damaged! Maybe the motorcycle owner doesn’t know how to properly maintain a new motorcycle engine, or maybe he ignored the motorcycle manual. Don’t let the same thing happen to you. Love your motorcycle, take good care of it, and then it will last a long time! Read this article to learn more about how to properly maintain a motorcycle engine.
Why is It Important to Do An Engine Break-In/Running-In?
If you’ve just bought a motorbike, you must have heard the mechanic or shop manager say, “Don’t rush out, there’s a taboo against new motorbikes!” But what does that mean? This process is called break-in or running-in, which is a critical period where you need to take care of your new motorbike in a certain way to ensure the engine is in the best condition for the long term.
What Happens During the Break-In Period?
New motorcycles come with engine components that are still ‘raw’. The cylinder block, pistons, gears, and bearings are all not yet compatible with each other. If you continue to ride the motorcycle aggressively, the friction between these components can cause the engine to become rough and wear out quickly. The engine temperature can also rise suddenly (overheat), which can eventually damage the gaskets or worse, cause the engine to jam. When this happens, not only is it damaged, but the cost of repairing it can also be a drain on your pocket.
Apart from that, the lubricating oil also needs time to flow perfectly to every part of the engine. So, the break-in period is very important to ensure that all components work smoothly. If you do not follow this step, the risk of engine damage is higher.
The Right Way to Break-In / Running-In
Just like people who are in confinement after giving birth, new motorbikes also have a ‘bantang’ period that you need to follow. During this period, do not drive your motorbike recklessly or too fast. Usually, the break-in lasts for the first 1000km of the journey.
Here are some important guidelines for breaking in a new motorbike engine:
1. Speed Control
- For motorcycles with a capacity of less than 125cc, limit the speed to around 60-80 km/h. This is equivalent to approximately 60% of the engine capacity.
- Avoid riding above 80 km/h before reaching a distance of 1000km. Excessive speed can cause internal engine components to wear out faster.
2. Use the Right Lubricant
Use high-quality lubricating oil recommended by the motor manufacturer. It helps reduce friction between components and ensures the engine runs smoothly.
3. Stop for a Rest
When driving a motorcycle long distances, make sure you stop and rest to give the engine time to cool down. 5-10 minutes is enough to prevent the engine from overheating. An overheated engine can cause serious problems for your new motorcycle.
By following these steps, you will not only extend the life of your engine, but also save on future maintenance costs.
How to Maintain a Motor Engine for Tip-Top Performance
After the break-in period, motorcycle maintenance cannot be neglected. Here are three important tips that you can practice to ensure that your motorcycle engine is always in top condition:
1. Change Lubricating Oil Periodically
Lubricating oil is the ‘blood’ of your engine. Make sure you change your lubricating oil every 1000km or at least once a month. Lubricating oil helps protect engine components from friction that can damage them.
Use a lubricating oil that matches the specifications of your motorcycle. If you are unsure, refer to your motorcycle manual or seek advice from a trusted mechanic.
2. Warm Up the Engine Before Starting the Journey
Before you start riding, warm up the engine for 2-3 minutes. This is important to ensure that the lubricating oil flows perfectly throughout the engine before the engine operates at maximum temperature. If you have ridden a long distance, rest the engine for 1-2 minutes before turning off the motor. This step will help extend the life of the engine.
3. Don’t Over-Rev While in Neutral Gear
Avoid turning the throttle to the maximum while the engine is in neutral gear. Apart from wasting oil, this habit can cause the internal components of the engine to wear out quickly. It is better to ride the motorcycle calmly and avoid unnecessary stress on the engine.
Other Care to Consider
Apart from maintaining the engine, there are several other things you need to pay attention to:
- Tires: Make sure the tire pressure is always sufficient to prevent rapid tire wear and provide stability while riding.
- Brake System: Check the brakes regularly to ensure they are working properly.
- Inefficient brakes can be dangerous for you on the road.
- Motorcycle Chain: Make sure the motorcycle chain is always in the proper tension.
- Lubricate the chain with special chain lubricant so that it always runs smoothly.
Maintaining a new motorcycle engine is actually easy, as long as you know the right steps. Most importantly, spend the break-in period with patience. Don’t rush to hit the throttle, remember! This period is the time to ‘educate’ your engine so that it can provide the best performance in the long run.
After the break-in period, continue with maintenance routines such as changing the lubricating oil, warming up the engine before riding, and ensuring that the engine is not too stressed. This way, your motorcycle will not only last longer, but also maintain tip-top performance every time you ride. You can get these services at Super Motor Co. (click here to find out more).
Remember, your motorcycle is an investment. Take good care of it, and your motorcycle will ‘return the favor’ with solid performance!
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