Oil .
It ’ s what stops your engine from busting . Engines have moving parts made of metal and as we all know , moving parts work best with lubrication ! So this will be in the manual and if not then you should be able to get the grade from online and or call a main dealer for the bike . If you ’ re not happy with oils then don ’ t mess around and just get what is recommended for the bike . Don ’ t read forums on the subject and think sunflower oil will be just fine as Bobby56 seems to have been using it for years ! Bobby56 will probably own a garage and will be waiting for a line of bikes puffing smoke and smelling like a rancid chip shop to turn up .
Check the window – it should be low down on the engine , a clear circle window with max and min indicators . This should be done when the engine is warm after waiting a few minutes and the bike will need to be flat and upright to get the level . Do not panic if the bike is on the side stand and you look like you have no oil ! New oil tends to be a honey colour and will turn black and become thin over time . Good oil will improve the engines performance and keep it running for longer – it ’ s that simple and not worth messing around with . Keep your girl well lubricated and she will thank you for it .
Final Checks ...
Has your rubber cement gone off in your kit ? Is the tool kit still there ? Did you remember to tighten up that screen bolt ?
This is just a guide and is not exhaustive if you have any safety concerns then book your bike in for a safety check and service at your local bike shop . Yup , that ’ s us covering our legal arse ! “ Ted didn ’ t say that I had to check my fuel and I ran out on the motorway and had to walk to the services ” you know they ’ re out there !
Catch Ted in the next issue of MEM !