How to Get Your Dirt Bike Ready for Summer – The summer season is usually a time for various activities. Dirt bike enthusiasts relish cruising along trails during summer, whether in desert expanses, mountainous terrains, private estates, or on trails.
However, summer heat poses significant challenges. Even moderate temperatures like 80 degrees can feel scorching due to direct sunlight and the added discomfort of riding gear. While trails often offer shade from trees, temperatures can still soar. This can lead to issues for you and your bike if you are not careful. As such, it helps to know how to get your dirt bike ready for summer to prevent this.
Terrains to Consider for the Summer
Before we get into the prepping tips, it helps to know what kind of terrains you can work with for the summer. Different soil types on dirt bike tracks offer various challenges and benefits for riders. Loam, a mix of silt, sand, and clay, provides stability, good drainage, and traction, making falls less harsh. However, clay-rich tracks, like those with “blue groove” soil, lack traction and increase accident risks.
Sand tracks demand special tires and steady throttle control to prevent slipping. Chalky soil, typical in motocross and backyard tracks, needs frequent watering for rideable conditions, underlining the need for riders to adjust to different terrains. No matter the type of terrain, it is always to prepare your bike for them.
How to Get Your Dirt Bike Ready for Summer
Inspect and Clean the Bike
Preparing your dirt bike for the trails after winter involves a few essential steps to ensure it’s in top condition. Start by inspecting for any dirt or debris in the exhaust pipe and around gears, as these can lead to rusting. Cleaning your bike thoroughly is crucial for preventing corrosion and maintaining its appearance.
Use a mild detergent and water to wash the frame, forks, and wheels, paying attention to hard-to-reach spots. After rinsing and drying, apply a protective wax or polish. This cleaning process also allows you to spot any potential issues like loose bolts or rust that may need addressing. By dusting off your ride and giving it proper care, you can enjoy a smooth and safe riding experience as the weather warms up.
Clean the Air Filter
Regularly cleaning your dirt bike’s air filter is essential for maintaining engine health and longevity. The air filter plays a critical role in preventing debris such as dirt, sand, and small sticks from entering the engine and causing damage.
During your cleaning routine, ensure the air filter is free of dirt, oils, and moisture. Make it a habit to check and clean the air filter regularly, especially before hitting the trails in summer, to safeguard your engine from potential harm. This simple maintenance task can significantly prolong your dirt bike’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance during your rides.
Check/Inspect the Tires
After giving your dirt bike a thorough wash, it’s crucial to inspect your tires for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, cuts, or damage in the tread, and check for slow punctures. Replace any tires showing signs of wear or damage to ensure optimal performance and safety on the trails. Proper tire pressure is also vital for handling and fuel efficiency, so use a tire pressure gauge to measure pressure when the tires are cold and adjust as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Additionally, inspect the alignment of your tires to ensure they are secure, inline, and have adequate tread for grip. Finally, give your rims and spokes a once-over for any signs of damage that could compromise the structural integrity of your motorcycle and lead to safety hazards on the road. If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them promptly to maintain a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Check the Fluid Levels
Regularly checking fluid levels is essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your dirt bike. Inspect the levels of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and clutch fluid, and top them up or replace them as necessary following the manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s important to check fluid levels when the engine is cool to ensure accurate readings.
Additionally, as the winter cold may have affected damping fluid performance, consider adjusting the suspension setup if your bike allows for it. Don’t overlook the importance of coolant to prevent overheating during trail rides. Refer to your owner’s manual or consult with your local dirt bike dealer for guidance on selecting the appropriate coolant for your bike. Keeping these fluids in check will help ensure a smooth and trouble-free riding experience.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Regularly lubricating moving parts is vital for ensuring the smooth operation and longevity of your dirt bike. Components like the chain, cables, and pivot points should be lubricated consistently to minimize friction and avoid premature wear. Select a high-quality lubricant that is compatible with your bike’s specific parts and the conditions you ride in.
After applying lubricant, be sure to wipe off any excess to prevent the accumulation of dirt, which can lead to additional damage over time. By maintaining proper lubrication, you can keep your bike running smoothly and extend its lifespan for many enjoyable rides to come.
Remember to Cool Your Bike
While there are plenty of ways to prep your dirt bike for summer, it also helps to know how to maintain it during hot weather. Some ways to keep your bike cool include:
- Coolant Maintenance: Regularly check and replace your coolant with fresh industry-standard coolant to prevent overheating issues, especially on hot days or as your existing coolant nears its recommended usage hours.
- Know When to Hold Back: If you encounter a challenging hill or obstacle that exceeds your skill level, resist the urge to push through. Struggling halfway does not only damage your bike but also heats up the engine. Instead, backtrack and reassess your approach or find an alternate route.
- Ice Your Gas: While primarily used in Moto racing, the practice of chilling the gas tank before a race can also benefit prolonged off-road rides, keeping your fuel cooler for longer durations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to prep your bike for any season. Whether it is winter or summer, prepping your dirt bike ensures it continues running smoothly. Furthermore, by doing proper checks on your dirt bike, you can deal with any potential issues before they grow. Generally, there are many ways to care for your dirt bike for different conditions.
There are also plenty of tips for riding in various conditions and terrains such as rain and rocky roads. You’ll find there are plenty of helpful information for dealing with various weather conditions and environments with your dirt bike.
