4 Essential Motorcycle Maintenance Fluids

Motorcycles are like children or pets: you have to provide them fluids to keep them alive. In other words, motorcycles need "nutritional" additives and fluids to survive.

Practically every component or part of a motorcycle requires some kind of liquid to keep it lubricated and cool. So you've got the motorcycle and a home for it in your garage, but do you have the right  maintenance fluids to keep your bike healthy? Aside from the obvious motor oil, there are other fluids you should always stock up in your shop that are essential to your motorcycle's routine maintenance schedule.

Fork or Suspension Oil

Suspension oil changes aren't something your motorcycle will need all the time, but it will need them eventually. Temperature variations and the pounding that comes with the bumps in the road can wear the fluid down. Somewhere between 10,000-20,000 miles, you'll need to flush the fork oil. 

Watch the video above to see how to change the fork seals and fluid on a Suzuki motorcycle.

Hydraulic Brake and Clutch Fluid

On many modern motorcycles, the brake fluid running through the braking system and the clutch is the same (check with the manufacturer). Over time, this fluid breaks down because of temperature changes and the fact that it's hygroscopic, which means it attracts water. Every machine is different, but the basics of changing the fluids are often the same.

Watch the video above to see how to bleed the brakes on a Honda motorcycle.

Motorcycle Engine Coolant

Engine coolant or antifreeze for your motorcycle is always good to have around. The manufacturer of your bike will give you a specific recommendation about the type of coolant to use, and how often you should flush the cooling system. 

Watch the video above to learn how to flush the coolant in a Kawasaki motorcycle.

Transmission Oil or Gear Oil

When you choose gear oil for your motorcycle, the type of drive train and engine you have on your bike are important. The manufacturer of your motorcycle will give you exact specifications about the type of transmission or gearbox fluid you need and how often you should change it.

Watch the video above to see a gear oil change on a Honda motorcycle.

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