Riding motorcycles has always been popular here in Australia and a large part of that involves off-road riding, which can be very messy. Riding on rough terrain also takes it out of the bike and therefore, servicing and maintenance is a critical aspect of off-road riding, which keeps the machine in good working order.
- Keeping things clean – If you thought a road bike gets dirty, wait until you have been out on an Enduro bike for a few hours; everything gets caked in mud and it is very important to give the bike a power wash after every outing. This is the only way to completely remove all the mud, dirt and grime that the machine collects and if that is not done, the caked-on mud will be even harder to remove. Stand the bike on a concrete area and blast it from every angle, leaving it to dry before parking it in the garage.
- Lubrication – Much like any other vehicle, your dirt bike requires lubrication in specific locations (chain, chassis, gearbox). The primary drive chain needs special attention; spray-on chain lube is great because it sticks to the chain rollers, where it is most needed. You need to be meticulous about this, checking after every ride (post-power wash) and keep that chain oiled.
- Chain Tension – Check the owner’s manual for optimum play and adjust when necessary.
- Shocks/Suspension – If you own a Rieju MR Ranger 200, the shock is a KYB with adjustable pre-load, compression and rebound. This allows you to select the best setting for the terrain, while all seals should be inspected after every ride. If you notice anything unusual re the smoothness of the ride, this should be investigated before the next adventure.
- Brakes – Obviously essential, disc brakes front and rear offer the best performance and the pads need regular inspection; always replace before they wear down to the rivets – and keep an eye on the hydraulic fluid reservoir, which needs topping up is below the minimum line.
- Tyres – These are the items that make contact with the ground and you should make it a habit to thoroughly inspect the tyres before each ride. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations re correct PSI inflation (see owner’s manual).
- Engine – If you run a 2-stroke engine, there’s no engine oil to worry about, while a 4-stroke requires oil changes according to mileage intervals. The oil and air filter need changing at the same time. Check spark plug gaps and reset if necessary (spark plug feeler gauges) and make sure the HT lead is firmly connected.
Like most things, a dirt bike responds well to some tender loving care and you’ll probably end up spending most of your free time on your pride and joy off-road bike.