HOW TO'S

A clean air filter keeps your engine breathing and can add horsepower. 1. Remove the seat and locate the airbox — most bikes have a quick-release clamp or wing bolts. 2. Pull the filter out carefully so debris doesn't fall into the intake boot. 3. Wash it in warm soapy water (or filter cleaner), then rinse and let it dry completely — no compressed air, it tears the foam. 4. Apply filter oil evenly, then squeeze out the excess (don't wring it). 5. Grease the sealing edge and reinstall, making sure it's fully seated. Do this every 5–10 hours depending on conditions, and always after a dusty or muddy ride.

A neglected chain wears out sprockets fast. Ten minutes after every ride keeps it healthy. 1. With the bike on a stand, spin the wheel and inspect for tight spots, rust, or stiff links. 2. Clean the chain with a rag and kerosene or chain cleaner — never a wire brush on O-ring chains. 3. Let it dry, then lube the inside of the chain while slowly rotating the wheel so the lube works into the rollers. 4. Wipe off the excess. 5. Check tension: you want roughly 25–35mm of slack at the tightest point (check your manual). Lube a warm chain right after a ride — it soaks in better.

Fresh oil is the cheapest insurance for your engine. On a four-stroke, aim for every 10–15 hours. 1. Warm the engine slightly so the oil flows, then drain it into a tray. 2. Replace the drain bolt washer and torque to spec — usually around 20–25 Nm. 3. Remove the oil filter, let it drain, and install the new one with a light coat of clean oil on the seal. 4. Refill with the correct amount and grade (check your manual). 5. Run the engine briefly, check for leaks, then check the level again on level ground. Never overfill — extra oil can blow seals and rob power.

Right tyre pressure is free speed — it transforms how the bike turns and grips. 1. Check pressures cold, with an accurate gauge (not the servo one). 2. Motocross: start around 12–14 psi rear, 12–13 front. Hardpack: 1–2 psi more. Sand: 1–2 psi less. 3. Inspect the tread for tearing, and check the rim lock is tight. 4. Look for a bent rim or cracked spokes while you're there. Pressure changes with soil type more than most suspension adjustments — log what works at each track.