Things to Check Regularly
Tip: There are dozens of parts on a motorcycle that could be checked on a regular basis and there is nothing wrong with check all those parts. But try to slim the list down to the most important items so you still have time to ride.Here is a basic list Battery, Oil, Tires, Brakes, Chain and sprocket (Shaft Drive, Belt Drive) and Fuel.

 Tires.
Tip: Keep a low pressure tire gauge (0psi - 80psi) in your bike tool bag. Remember to check your tire pressure everytime you fill up for gas.
Keep your tires correctly inflated.  The most common motorcycle breakdown is for tire damage.Replace your tires sooner rather than later. If tread depth is 1-2mm it is time to replace your tires.

  Brakes
Tip: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and becomes less effective. Replace brake fluid every one to two years and your brakes will preform the best they can.
Motorcycles can have up to two brake fluid reservoirs, one for the front, usually found on the handlebars and one for the back. Both should be checked regularly.Topping up should only be done from a new, sealed bottle as brake fluid tends to absorb moisture over time.
Beware - brake fluid, if spilt on paintwork eats right through to the bare metal.
Also check the thickness of the brake pads. If you allow them to go right down to the metal your brake disc will be damaged resulting in an unnecessary and expensive replacement.

Chain and sprockets, Shaft Drives, Belts
Tip: Lube your chain after each ride when the chain is warm so the oil can easily soak in and get into all the tight spots of the chain.
Chains: Lubricate them often with a commercial chain spray everytime you fill up for gas. (or at the end of each ride). Spray liberally on the side of the chain that comes into contact with the sprockets. Ensure that you spray both left and the right hand side of the chain.
Bike chains are never taut but must be able to sag between 3/4" to 1 1/4" at the mid-point between the two sprockets. The sag is used when the bike suspension moves up and down over uneven surfaces.
Shaft Drives: Even though shaft drives on motorcycles require little maintenance we would suggest replacing the shaft drive oil every time you change the oil on your motorcycle. This will lead to a very long life for the shaft drive.
Belt Drives: As with shaft drives, belts do not require a lot of maintenance. Everytime you change the oil on your motorcycle check the belt tension and adjust if necessary. Make sure your belt is always clean.

 Fuel
Tip: Check your fuel filter on a regular basis and replace every 2 years.
Fuel is quite an often overlooked as a form of preventative maintenance on a motorcycle. Check the fuel filter (if you have one) to make sure it is not clogged and looks clean and clear.
Check the fuel lines for weather damage and cracking, replace immediately if any is found.
Generally untreated gas is only good for about 6 months. After this time the gas starts to break down. Dispose of untreated gas older than 6 months rather than risk running it. Treated gas can last up to 2 years.Remember when parking your motorcycle for any length of time to turn the petcock (fuel tap) to the off position. This prevents any fuel potentially leaking out and flooding the carbs or the engine.

 Oil
Tip: Check your oil level when it is cold before you go on a ride. If it is not at its high or max level top it up before going out.
Regular oil and filter changes will keep your motorcycle healthy.
Oil level. Make sure you regularly check and keep your oil level at its HIGH or MAX level. It is best to check your oil level on the bikes centre stand or when it is in a level position. An under filled oil level can be disastrous while too much oil over the limit may flood your air cleaner with oil. Here are some pointers regarding oil which are true for most motorcycles
- The bike should be level as possible.
- The oil should best inspected cold and is therefore best done before you go out on a ride.
- Becareful to not allow foreign matter and dirt to fall in during the inspection process.
- With threaded dipsticks do not screw the dipstick in when taking a reading, just allow it to rest on the lowest thread.
- High temperatures, time, speed, heavy traffic, short trips and dust quickly destroy the quality of your oil. If you do ride in these conditions change your oil more frequently.
- I suggest changing your oil every 2-4000km or 3-6 months, whichever comes first.
- It is recommended you change your oil filter everyother oil change if you are using a good quality oil filter.
- Always use a good oil filter.

 Battery
Tip: Check the fluid levels on each chamber. If any chamber is low, carefully top it up. Use only distilled or deionized water, NOT tap water.
 A battery only requires a little monthly maintenance to perform perfectly. Keep the battery charged to 100%, recharging when the lights dim, the starter sounds weak, or the battery hasn't been used in more than two weeks. Other than that, follow this simple check list every month:
- Check the electrolyte level
- Top up only with distilled or deionized water, wear gloves and protective glasses. Top up in a well ventilated area, Beware of fumes.
- Keep the top free of grime
- Check cables, clamps, and case for obvious damage or loose connections
- Clean terminals and connectors as necessary
- Make sure the exhaust tube is free of kinks and clogs
- Replace caps firmly
- Finish up by testing the battery with either a hydrometer or voltmeter. ,br>