Basic Dirt Bike Maintenance

It's easy to ignore that "little" noise your dirt bike has been making and it's easy to "forget" to check the engine, the shocks, and the tires on a regular basis. But if you keep "forgetting" to do a little preventative maintenance on your dirt bike, it will cost you in the end. When you consider how much replacing something like a transmission which can be up to $1000 and transmission oil is less than $8, basic dirt bike maintenance starts looking like a more better deal all the time.

Before you ride, give your dirt bike the once over. Check screws and bolts, have a wrench and ratchet handy to tighten what needs to be tightened on your dirt bike. Oil your linkage bearing and check your pivots and seals, your rear suspension of your dirt bike will be all the better for it.

Tires should be checked frequently on your dirt bike. If they are worn, get new ones. Worn out treads don't grab the riding surface and a crash on your dirt bike can cost you a lot more than a new set of tires. Another great tip is to keep your spokes snug and your rims will stay round longer.

If you do a lot of mud racing, your dirt bike will need more frequent maintenance, sand and salt water can create a lot of wear and tear on your engine and other moving parts. Be aware and check them often for any signs of deterioration.

Another often neglected part is your dirt bike's ignition, just because it works doesn't mean it doesn't need cleaning. Make sure the contacts are clean so you get a good spark every time you start your dirt bike. Ditto on your brake pads. Check those on your dirt bike often and you and your dirt bike will be safely riding for many years to come.