Essential do-it-yourself maintenance habits
Motorcycles are fairly low maintenance but that doesn’t mean they don’t need the occasional tender loving car (TLC) every now and then. It’s always prudent to ensure that your ride is always in good working condition, especially if it’s packed with cutting-edge features like the AirBlade150.
This stylish ride, ideal for Filipinos, boasts of its front-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) that prevents the wheels from locking up to avoid accidents. It also has a smart key to provide added protection from theft. It’s powered by a 150cc SOHC liquid-cooled PGM-Fi eSP engine for superior stop-and-go function and fuel efficiency of 47km/L.
Its other features include a slim body design, a 22.7L U-Box for storage with a power outlet and LED lamp, and a digital meter panel. It comes in Matte Galaxy Black Metallic, Candy Caribbean Blue Sea, and Candy Ross Red color variants with a suggested retail price of PhP109,000.
Honda Philippines, Inc., the No. 1 motorcycle manufacturer in the country, lists some handy care tips.
Clean the bike regularly
Keeping your motorcycle clean will not only make it look nice but will help with maintenance, too. By doing so, it makes it easier for you to notice missing or loose bolts and nuts. It is also ideal to use a microfiber cloth to clean the surface of your bike. Lastly, do not overexpose it to direct sunlight. Park your bike in the shade.
Check the tire condition regularly
It is crucial to have a thorough look at the condition of your motorcycle, particularly the air pressure of its tires. Start by checking the wheel balance and alignment. Then, make sure that the air pressure is maintained at the recommended levels. Also, check for possible cuts and scrapes that could cause undesirable things like a tire blowout. Don’t forget to inspect the tire’s tread at least once a week. If you find any significant problems, do seek the help of your mechanic.
Change the oil
Engine oils lubricate your gears and engines. If you fail to change the engine oil, it might cause damage. That is why the owner’s manual of your motorcycle usually specifies how frequently you need to top up or change it. Regularly check the engine oil level and make sure that you maintain the correct level. The right amount of clean oil ensures that your bike will run smoothly for miles to come.
Change the air filter
Air filters are arguably the easiest to change in your garage. These filters keep dirt and other debris out of your bike’s main operational components so, you need to inspect and replace them based on prescribed schedule. You may also seek your trusted auto mechanic service more frequently when riding in unusually wet or dusty areas. Meanwhile, cleaning of air filters of most Honda motorcycles, like the AirBlade150, is not necessary. If you own one, it’s no longer be a concern.
Lube the motorcycle chain
It is integral to lubricate your chains. Otherwise, the heat generated by constant operation may cause premature wear and damage. This cumulative wear on all the separate links makes the chain lose and more likely to fall off the sprockets.
Check the basics
It also pays to check some essential components on your bike every day or before using it. Here are some of these things: Check the fuel level to confirm it’s not leaking. Check all your fluid levels, such as oil, brake fluid, and coolant. Check the throttle cable free play. Check your lights and horn. Check the clutch lever free play. Ensure smooth steering movement and notice if there are no restrictions. Adjust the rear viewing span of a mirror if you think it is needed. Check brake hoses for chafing or leakage.
While these simple care tips will help keep your bike in its tiptop condition, it’s still best to visit your trusted professional mechanic based on its prescribed maintenance schedule. These tips are also applicable not just to AirBlade150 but also to other bikes.
Start developing these habits now! Remember that by taking care of your motorcycle, you are also taking care of yourself as you ensure that your every ride is safe and smooth.
Explore more from Honda and its wide array of motorcycles. For more details about Honda products and promos, visit our website at www.hondaph.com and follow us on Facebook, Honda Philippines, Inc., and Instagram, @hondaph_mc. You can also contact us through our landline number, (02)-8581-6700 to 6799, and mobile number, 0917-884-6632.