What is the best practice to maintain a bike?

Question

I have an Avenger 180cc bike, I want to maintain the bike without much help from the service center, external help etc.

What would be the best practice methods?

Answer 1

1. In India, if you're bike has an exposed chain, it will collect grime. Lube your chain at regular intervals to keep it in top health.
2. Also, I think the 180cc Avenger is still carburetor based, and the carb needs to be cleaned at regular intervals along with the filter element in the air filter box.
3. Your owners manual will show the location of the oil sump, and instructions on how to drain and fill oil. Oil changes every 2500 kms or as per manufacturer's specified intervals will be necessary.
4. Indian bikes have dry cables, which are not bled with oil ever. Lubing cable end's where they meet the yokes on your handlebar are useful to keep the cables life longer.
5. Your front forks are exposed. The fork pipes have oil seals that keep the fork oil from spilling out. However our road conditions are pretty severe on these seals, and they are known to leak every now and then. Tell tale signs are oil smears on the fork pipes, and/or wobbly handling at the front. Oil seal replacement requires tools that your toolbox might not have, and are best done at a service center, or external garage.

Answer 2

First, and foremost break it in properly. There is a reason they recommended, and it might make life easier later on. Follow you service manual, and make a habit of keeping tires at proper pressure. If you ride harder than the norm, then you want to adjust the service to a more frequent mode. Remember, the harder you ride the dirtier all your fluids will likely get.