Advertisement
If you have a new account but are having problems posting or verifying your account, please email us on hello@boards.ie for help. Thanks :)
Hello all! Please ensure that you are posting a new thread or question in the appropriate forum. The Feedback forum is overwhelmed with questions that are having to be moved elsewhere. If you need help to verify your account contact hello@boards.ie
Hi all! We have been experiencing an issue on site where threads have been missing the latest postings. The platform host Vanilla are working on this issue. A workaround that has been used by some is to navigate back from 1 to 10+ pages to re-sync the thread and this will then show the latest posts. Thanks, Mike.
Hi there,
There is an issue with role permissions that is being worked on at the moment.
If you are having trouble with access or permissions on regional forums please post here to get access: https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058365403/you-do-not-have-permission-for-that#latest

Learning to maintain your bike

  • 15-06-2014 10:45pm
    #1
    the cats pajamas
    Registered Users Posts: 255 ✭✭


    It was only over the last two years I have taken an interest in mataining my own bike. (and it is becoming a very rewarding part of biking)
    I am curious what jobs and in which order do you think a biker should learn to do for himself.

    i think chain lube and clean is obviously first, maybe chain adjustment next.
    I also have done break pads and fluids and more recently an oil and filter change.
    I would love to do fork oil or carbs.

    Is everyone just learning in the order that there bike needs things or are they picking gradually bigger jobs while paying for what is too much?

    what order did you learn in/ what order would you have liked to learn in?


    (delboys garage is great)


Comments

  • #2
    Boskowski
    Closed Accounts Posts: 5,361 ✭✭✭Boskowski


    Best thing I ever did was getting a classic (1979). You learn a lot. I mean a lot.

    Warning, I'm going to show off now. I did...

    new wiring loom from scratch from wiring diagram
    new handlebar & controls overhaul
    speedos overhaul
    alternator overhaul
    12 volt conversion
    new sprocket, new sprocket oil seal
    new gear shift
    new clutch springs
    new crank case gaskets
    new sump gasket
    new oil pipes
    new kickstart release mechanism
    carb overhaul + re-jetting
    new tyres & tubes
    front forks: new springs, oil seals and oil change
    new twin shocks
    new front wheel and rear wheel bearings
    new steering stem bearing
    ignition set with strobe light and breaker replacement
    all cables (brakes, gas, decompression)
    new brake pads
    new seat cover
    new chain
    new exhaust (both pipes)

    probably a few more things I forgot about

    maintenance: with that kind of bike you need to be able to do...

    air
    oil change & filter
    spark plug(s)
    valve clearance
    cam chain tension
    chain tension
    chain lube
    brake and clutch adjustment

    Obviously with that kind of bike the mending bit is part of the joy and it becomes a hobby. Its a great antidote to my soft hands/arse computer job. I knew nothing about bikes or engines 5 years ago.

    Edit: That's her btw: http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=73909083


  • #3
    Cienciano
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,306 ✭✭✭✭Cienciano


    Internet forums that specialise in your bike is the best resource for this imho. Find out what needs to be done at what interval, and is it do-able yourself.
    I've done a bit on my car myself and it's definitely rewarding.


  • #4
    Boskowski
    Closed Accounts Posts: 5,361 ✭✭✭Boskowski


    Haynes manuals are really good. Agreed on the internet forums thing.


  • #5
    Wossack
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,025 ✭✭✭Wossack


    +1 to knowing intervals. Worthwhile printing one off (its usually a grid/spreadsheet) and sticking on your garage wall - can scribble on it then when you last did 'x', or highlight what needs doing. No point doing the plugs every 6 months 'cause you can', if you've never done the valves in 10 years of ownership

    no harm in checking what you can off it, and turning to professionals for what you cant do. Kinda good too being able to go to them with a definite piece of work; coolant needs changing, or adjust headstock bearings etc - not, 'can you service it please'

    very rewarding alright - and you know its done. Down the line, if your enthusiasm wanes, you'll be more informed to check mechanics work too


Advertisement