When it comes to maintaining a bike as a beginner, you ought to know that there are multiple oils and lubricants that go into your machine for optimum performance. These oil-based lubricants are essential for your bike to offer optimal performance. And from time to time, these
fluids and engine lubricants need top-up and replacement.
Here’s our detailed guide explaining each fluid, its type and the replacement interval.
Engine Oil
This is one of the most crucial lubricant oils for any ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) to operate. It serves three crucial purposes: -
– First is to provide lubrication to all the moving parts (crankshaft, bearings and connecting rods)
– The second purpose of the engine oil is to provide cooling by transferring heat to the exterior of the engine where there is adequate air circulation.
– And finally, the primary purpose of engine oil is to keep the engine clean from the inside, as one of the crucial properties of engine oil is to hold and avert the accumulation of debris on internal parts of the engine. There are solvents in the engine oil that disintegrate any deposit.
The two major types of engine oils include: -
Mineral oil – They are sourced from refining crude oil; the process includes removing of unwanted contaminants and hydrocarbons. This type of oil flows slower than its synthetic counterpart as it is designed for less performance-intensive operations (bikes below 150 cc). Since the manufacturing process is simpler, they are popular and affordable.
Synthetic oil –
This type of engine oil is fully produced in labs, specifically for performance-oriented engines that require a low viscosity index. Since they offer high lubrication ability, better heat management and last longer, they have a higher price tag.
Engine Oil Change – Every 4000km-6000km/ 6 months.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is one of the very crucial oil based lubricants which ensures the braking system works consistently and reliably.
There are three different types brake fluids available in the market - DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5. While, DOT4 and DOT3 are glycol-based, DOT5 is silicon-based. For a consistent and reliable braking performance, the fluid must maintain the required viscosity.
Modern safety features such as ABS and Traction Control use micro-valves with system working in rapid actuation. Such sophisticated systems require a clean fluid flowing throughout the system.
During maintenance, there is a term known as “Brake Bleeding”. The process involves flushing the existing brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brake calipers/drum. There are multiple methods of brake bleeding.
• Vacuum bleeding – This process involves the use of a vacuum pump that pulls the oil until it runs clear of bubbles.
• Pump & Hold – It is a simple yet effective method to bleed brake fluid by opening one bleed screw which allows the air to escape. It is closed before the brake lever is released.
• Pressure – An exterior pump is deployed on the master cylinder that creates pressure; the bleeder valve is also opened simultaneously.
Brake Fluid Change – Replacement every 2 years / top-up if the level drops to below minimum.
Fork Oil
Fork oil is one of the most underrated fluids that ensure optimal ride and handling for any vehicle. Fork oil, just like other engine lubricants, must be changed as specified by the manufacturer.
During replacement, the fork oil should be filled to the specific level as recommended by the OEM. That’s because excessive fork oil will make the suspension stiffer and less than the optimal level will make the suspension setup spongy.
Fork Oil Change – Replacement/ top-up once every 18,000km or 2 years.
Apart from these fluids and oil replacement, there is oil greasing through lubricants involved as well on various parts, such as ball joints on the gear lever, center and side stand, chain lube/clean, and swing arm bearing. Make sure to use genuine OEM/branded fluids, like those recommended by TVS Motor, as counterfeit products can hamper the optimal performance and life of your vehicle.
Also Read:
Choosing the Best Engine Oil for Motorcycles: Dos & Don'ts for a Smooth Ride
Disc Brakes 101: Everything You Need To Know
Emergency Braking On Motorcycles: Some Life Saving Tips
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