To ensure your bike is in proper running condition and to extend the life of its engine and parts calls for regular care and maintenance. It’s indispensable to have your bike regularly serviced at authorized service centers. Here are some valuable tips that will keep your machine sparkling and smooth order all the time.

• The most important part of a bike is its engine. For a proper running engine the engine oil should be optimum. Use a good quality engine oil to extend the life of the engine and in case there is leakage get it seen to.
• Air pressure in the tyres is more than just a smooth ride. They ensure you get a better road grip and a longer life to your tyres. Also check the tyres for bulges and cuts.
• Another important part is the battery. Ensure that your bike battery is in good condition with periodical checks. In some cases the distilled water might need refilling.
• For instant start up keep the spark plug clean and spark points free of dust with regular cleaning.
• Your bikes brakes could save you in critical conditions. Check the condition of breaks. If the break pads are worn out which happens after frequent use make an immediate replacement? Also ensure the breaks are aligned properly and do not rub against the tyres.
• Crank bolts should be tight and the chain well greased. These ensure that you do not have a road mishap due to their sudden malfunction.
• Wash and clean your bike regularly. This is despite servicing at service centers. Ensure that the ignition points and silencer are covered before pouring water.
• It’s likely that after riding some of your bike parts have worn out. Replace them in time. Also check for loose fitted parts and get them adjusted.

These might seem like trivial things but if they are left unattended they could cost you very dear both in money and your life.

Weird as it might sound but the right time of the day, month and year might actually be an advantage when you are buying a bike. How? Read on and be sure these tips will help you get your machine for a great bargain.

Prices falls

You have in mind a bike model but instead of going right out and paying a hefty sum just when the new bike has been launched, a patient wait could get you a good bargain on the same machine. If you are prepared to wait the price of bikes drop as time passes.

New launches

The most significant drop in cost is visible when the motor company come out with their new model. This is the time you get the pick of deals because even the showrooms are in a hurry to clear out the old stock to welcome the new lot. Salesmen are given incentives and instruction to get the most deals in a day. That’s when you can approach a showroom and get your bike for less.

Season

Depending on which country you live in the off season for bikes demand can be a good pointer to look out for. When the sale of bikes is at a slump them there are more chances you will get a good bargain. On the contrary you might also be able to strike a good bargain when the sale of bikes is high. This happens when shops compete with each other and slash their prices to get the most sales. Customers also get benefits like free accessories and extra servicing for buying the bike during the festive season. During bumper discounts and sales are good times to buy a bike.

Time

Time of the day is also significant and experts predict that a salesman is more likely to accept your bargain and give you a discount in the evening or just before he pulls down the shutters. That’s because it’s likely he has not met his sales target for the day and would like to go home on a high after making a sale.

Great machines have gone for dead cheap prices when you buy at the right time so make the purchase smartly for the best deals in bikes.

A new bike has just been launched and you’re out to get it but hang on. Just because you saw that stylish bike being advertise in magazines does not guarantee that the bike’s your machine. Put it though this test and ensure it’s the right bike for you.

Features

One of the first categories to test is for the right features. Is the seating comfortable? What about the tyres? Do they allow secure grip and are they wide? The shockers are another feature to watch out for? Bikes with good shock absorbers allow you to have a relatively less bouncy and more comfortable ride.

Style

Like any machine bikes with the X-factor do matter if you’re out with your girl or to impress one but it’s also a telling factor when it comes to your own style. Like a tattoo on your arm, your bike is what you are. It reflects your personality. Sleek and stylish or bold and bulky; sporty or massive; the bike you ride is what you are.

Mileage

If you plan to ride your bike all around town then do consider the mileage factor. You do not want to be always looking out for the next filling station! Some bikes are designed for regular use while others have compromised on this mileage factor by putting in a style quotient. But there are also bikes that have a balance of both. It’s up to you which one is your priority.

Duration

This factor comes into play because if you are the type who cannot wait to get the newest model, remember every few months you will be changing your machine. In that case get a bike that gives you a good resale value so you can get a part of your price for your next bike.

Maintenance

It’s a benefit to buy locally at your nearest showroom. This gives you a good exchange offer and you can avail of the free maintenance and servicing without having to drive to the other end of the city.

Classic bikes are always a biker’s pride. Those old beauties are great but you might not always get the spares. Choosing a bike that is out of circulation means you will be hunting for spare parts. You might also find it hard to replace. If you want a bike just to keep as a showpiece then these oldies are worth their age.