Summer is here, and that means it's finally time to break out the dirt bike and hit the trails! But before you twist the throttle and kick up some dust, it’s essential to give your bike some post-winter TLC. A few simple maintenance steps can save you time, money, and major headaches down the road.
Here’s your go-to checklist for getting your dirt bike summer-ready after its winter nap:
1. Do a Full Visual Inspection
Start with a once-over. Look for any signs of corrosion, cracked hoses, rodent damage, or leaks. Winter storage—especially in fluctuating temps—can be rough on rubber seals, gaskets, and plastics. Don’t overlook anything that seems “off.”
2. Change the Oil and Filter
Even if you changed the oil before storing it, moisture and condensation can build up inside the engine over the winter. Give your bike a fresh start with a full oil change and new filter. It’s cheap insurance for your engine's longevity.
3. Charge or Replace the Battery
Cold weather can be brutal on batteries. If your bike has electric start, make sure the battery is fully charged and holding voltage. If it won’t hold a charge or you notice corrosion around the terminals, it’s time for a replacement.
4. Check Tires and Tire Pressure
Tires can lose pressure sitting idle in cold conditions. Check for flat spots, dry rot, or cracking. Inflate to the proper PSI and inspect the rims for dings or corrosion. Summer riding demands maximum grip and safety.
5. Flush Old Fuel and Clean the Carb/Fuel Injector
If you didn't use a fuel stabilizer before storage, that old gas has likely gone stale. Drain it and refill with fresh, high-octane fuel. Carbureted bikes may need a cleaning or at least a shot of carb cleaner. Fuel-injected models should also get a once-over to ensure smooth starting.
6. Clean and Lube the Chain
Chains can collect rust and debris just sitting still. Clean it with a brush and chain cleaner, then apply a high-quality chain lube. Also check your sprockets for wear—if they’re sharp or hooked, replace them before they shred your new chain.
7. Test Brakes and Fluids
Your brakes are your best friend—don’t neglect them. Check the brake fluid levels, inspect pads for wear, and ensure lines aren’t cracked or leaking. Bleed the brakes if needed for optimal performance and safety.
8. Wash, Wax, and Protect
Give your dirt bike a good bath. Cleaning off dust, grime, or leftover mud helps you spot potential issues and keeps your ride looking sharp. Apply a plastic protectant or bike wax to guard against sun and dirt.
9. Tighten Bolts and Inspect Bearings
Go over the bike with a torque wrench and tighten any loose bolts. Inspect wheel, steering, and swingarm bearings for play or grinding. A smooth, safe ride starts with solid connections.
10. Test Ride and Adjust
Once you’ve gone through the checklist, fire it up and take it for a quick ride around the block or in a safe, open area. Listen for anything unusual and make small adjustments as needed before hitting the trails full send.
Need Help? We’ve Got You.
At Revolution Powersports Repair Inc., we offer full-service dirt bike inspections, tune-ups, and repair work to get your machine running like new. Whether you ride casually on the weekends or you're prepping for competition, our certified techs can help you gear up for a killer season.