Motorcycle riding is a passion shared by many across Canada and, especially, in British Columbia. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting your journey, it's easy to encounter a variety of myths and misconceptions about motorcycle maintenance and riding practices. Sorting fact from fiction can be challenging, but understanding the truth is essential for safe and enjoyable riding.
In this post, we'll debunk ten common motorcycle myths and offer some practical advice to help keep your bike in top condition and ensure a smooth, worry-free ride, whether you're commuting to work in the Lower Mainland or exploring the scenic routes of the interior.
Myth #1: You must warm up your bike before riding.
Fact: Modern motorcycles typically require very little warm-up time, often less than a minute. Older or modified bikes may benefit from a slightly longer warm-up period, but riders should consult the owner's manual for warm-up guidelines specific to their motorcycle model. Prolonged idling wastes fuel and can also contribute to unnecessary engine wear, so keep that in mind the next time you’re prepping for a ride!
Myth #2: Premium fuel is always better.
Fact: The best fuel for a motorcycle is the fuel grade specified in the owner's manual. Most motorcycles, especially entry-level bikes, do not benefit from premium fuel and using a higher grade will not enhance performance but will hurt your wallet! However; high-performance, vintage, or modified bikes may require higher-octane fuel, so it's important to check the owner's manual or consult a trusted mechanic. Adhering to the recommended fuel grade ensures optimal operation.
Myth #3: Frequent oil changes are always better.
Fact: Following the oil change intervals recommended in the owner’s manual is actually the best practice! Excessive oil changes offer minimal additional benefits but increase expenses. To keep your motorcycle running smoothly, use the type of oil recommended in the owner's manual and stick to the manufacturers’ maintenance schedule. It is, however, important to check the oil level regularly throughout the riding season and if you often ride in stop-and-go traffic around areas like Surrey or Vancouver, you may need to check your oil more frequently. If you find yourself needing to top up the oil frequently, consult your mechanic, as this could indicate a potential issue.
Myth #4: As long as there’s no visible damage, tires are good to go.
Fact: It's important to examine tread depth and inspect tires for cracks, bulges, or punctures. Tires should be replaced when the tread depth reaches the minimum legal limit (typically 1/32 of an inch) or if any damage is present. Additionally, most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are six years old or older, regardless of their apparent condition, as the rubber compounds can deteriorate over time, affecting grip and safety. Especially before navigating the winding roads of the Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler, it's a good idea to inspect your tires closely for wear.
Myth #5: You only need to clean and lubricate your chain once a year.
Fact: Think more in terms of distance travelled rather than time passing, and aim to clean and lubricate your motorcycle chain every 500 - 1,000 kilometers, or even more frequently if you're riding in wet or dusty conditions. Many riders choose to clean and lubricate their own chains, while others prefer to have a mechanic perform this service, but either way it prevents deterioration and enhances performance. If you're planning a long road trip, it's a good idea to clean and lubricate your chain at least once during the trip, especially if you're covering several thousand kilometers. If you notice any slack in your chain, it's important to have it adjusted according to your motorcycle's owner's manual.
Myth #6: Brakes don't need to be checked frequently.
Fact: A visual brake inspection should be done before every ride, looking for damage to the brake components or broken cables. Once you get started, do a brake check before you’ve gone too far to make sure your braking power is what it should be. Brake performance is an essential part of riding, especially if you frequent hilly areas like New Westminster and North Vancouver.
In addition to the brakes themselves, keep in mind to check the brake fluid as it does absorb moisture over time, which can reduce braking performance and lead to corrosion in the braking system. It's important to have your brake fluid checked regularly and replaced according to your motorcycle's owner's manual - typically every two years. Depending on the motorcycle you’re riding, there will be different brake components to check and may include brake pads or brake shoes.
Myth #7: If your motorcycle starts, the battery is fine.
Fact: While a motorcycle starting is a good sign, it doesn't necessarily mean the battery is in optimal condition. A battery can have enough charge to start the engine but still be nearing the end of its lifespan or have a reduced capacity. The typical lifespan of a motorcycle battery is around 3 to 5 years, but this can vary depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and climate.
It's a good idea to have your battery checked at the start of the riding season and during regular maintenance visits with a qualified mechanic. When taking your motorcycle out of storage for the start of the riding season, it's generally recommended to charge the battery fully before use. If the battery is old or has been stored for an extended period without maintenance, it may need to be replaced. A weak battery can lead to starting issues, electrical problems, and potentially leave you stranded.
In British Columbia, it's important to recycle your used motorcycle batteries properly. Many retailers and service centres offer battery recycling programs.
Myth #8: Washing your motorcycle is purely cosmetic.
Fact: While a clean motorcycle certainly looks good, regular washing offers benefits beyond just aesthetics. Washing your bike helps prevent corrosion by removing dirt, grime, and road salt, which can damage the paint, metal components, and electrical connections. Cleaning also allows you to inspect your motorcycle more closely, making it easier to spot potential issues like oil leaks, loose bolts, or worn components. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the road and contribute to the long-term reliability and safety of your motorcycle.
Myth #9: Getting a motorcycle licence is easier than getting a car licence.
Fact: While the process for obtaining a motorcycle licence may seem simpler at first glance, it still involves several steps and requirements, and it's not necessarily easier than getting a car licence. Like getting a licence to drive a car in British Columbia, you will go through two different stages with various restrictions before obtaining a full licence. You will also need to pass a knowledge test, a road test, and a vision test.
There is an added step of a skills assessment on a motorcycle, which evaluates your ability to handle the motorcycle in a controlled environment. This skills test is specific to motorcycle licensing and assesses your maneuvering abilities, balance, and coordination. Successfully completing the knowledge and skills assessments allows for earlier independent riding compared to a car licence, but you will still have restrictions, such as not carrying passengers and limits on when you can ride.
Myth #10: Motorcycles are only for summer.
Fact: Motorcycles are certainly enjoyable to ride in the summer, but they can be ridden in other seasons as well, depending on the climate and the rider's comfort level. With proper gear and preparation, motorcycles can be a viable mode of transportation even in cold or wet conditions.
Many modern motorcycles have features that enhance comfort and safety in various weather conditions, such as heated grips, windshields, and advanced traction control systems. As long as you know when and how to adjust your riding style and be mindful of potential hazards, such as slippery roads and reduced visibility, riding throughout the seasons can be great!
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Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, dispelling these myths will help you stay safe, keep your motorcycle running smoothly, and make the most of every ride. Gear up, hit the road, and enjoy the freedom and excitement of motorcycling, knowing you're equipped with the knowledge to ride confidently and responsibly.