Riding conditions on the Indian roads vary with the season. Whether it is high heat during summer, engine troubles in the winter or potholes in the rainy season, your bike goes through multiple issues depending upon weather conditions.
This is why, to keep your Yamaha bike stable throughout the year, you should have a routine based on the weather, not on the kilometres. The five checks that ensure the machine is responsive during hot, wet and cold months are listed below.
Heat Control Starts with Oil and Airflow
During peak summer, the engines are overworked. Metal expands more at higher temperatures, and its heat-holding capacity increases. Moreover, the oil filters also get clogged.
Use the grade of oil recommended in your manual and replace the oil every 3,000 to 4,000 km. In addition, clean the air filter every three weeks, especially when the air is dusty. A blocked filter causes the engine to work harder, reduces throttle response, and burns more fuel.
Tyres Demand an Air Check and Surface Grip
Tyre pressure may reach an unsafe level during heatwaves. During colder weather, it goes below the baseline. It is always important to check the pressure when the tyre is cold.
Do this once every seven days. Tyre grip should also be checked, especially in rainy weather. Ensure that the tread depth is able to contact the surface. If your bike is slipping or skidding during turns and on wet roads, it is high time to replace your tyres. Ignoring this can lead to road accidents and poor performance.
Inspect Chains and Brakes During Rains
Water brings debris that gets deposited on the chain. Not just that, this mixture of dust and water clings to the sprocket teeth, hindering performance. Wipe the chain after each ride under wet conditions. Let it dry and then apply a good-quality lubricant.
In the case of brakes, ensure the tightness of the cables and the wear of the brake pads. The wet roads require more acute stopping, so any decrease in response should be corrected before the next ride.
Battery Performance Drops During Humid Months
Humidity affects battery terminals. Rust forms faster and impairs the flow of electric current. If the horn is weak or the electric start is slow, check the contact points. Clean them with a dry cloth and re-fit the terminal caps.
One should not splash water around the switches and the fuse box. It is advisable to park the bike in covered lots so that it does not get wet at night or in the morning when it is pouring.
Sun Exposure Affects Seat Fabric and Panel Finish
Direct sunlight causes damage to fabrics, leading to wear and tear and colour fading. If you park your bike in the open, make sure to cover it. Moreover, apply wax on the body panels every 45 to 60 days.
Clean the seat edges with a soft brush to remove any dust. A quick wipe-down at night is even better than a monthly service visit for long-term wear.
Final thoughts
The way you treat your Yamaha bike in changing weather reflects in its performance. A few minutes per week can help to avoid premature wear and unforeseen failures.
There is no issue that comes without warning. So, keep an eye on your bike and fix the smaller issues before they become major repair work. Remember, small habits will help you keep your bike in top-notch condition for years to come.
