Harley-Davidson Maintenance and Service Checklist
Investing in a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is a major decision, and maintaining it properly is key to ensuring its longevity and performance. Addressing minor issues early can prevent major problems down the line. Regular home maintenance and professional servicing are essential for keeping your bike in top condition.
Service Frequency
To keep your Harley-Davidson motorcycle running smoothly, it should be serviced by a professional at regular intervals. We recommend your first service at 1,000 miles, followed by every 5,000 miles. If you notice any issues between these intervals, contact our Service Department at New Orleans Harley-Davidson.
Oil Changes
Regular oil and filter changes are crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly and preventing wear. If you use mineral-based oil, it should be changed every 2,000 miles or twice a year, whichever comes first. For synthetic oil, change it every 5,000 miles. Always replace the filter when you change the oil.
Brake Inspection
Your brake system needs regular inspection to ensure the brake pads are not excessively worn and the fluid reservoirs are properly filled. A professional will check all components of your motorcycle's brake system, including the discs and fluid lines, and may perform a road test to identify any squeaking or grinding issues.
Tire Pressure and Condition
Regular tire checks are essential for safety and performance. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure before every ride or at least every few rides, and inflate your tires to the recommended psi levels in your owner's manual. Inspect each tire for worn treads, uneven wear, embedded objects, and sidewall cracks. A professional inspection will also include checking the tightness of wheel spokes (if applicable) and assessing the overall condition of each tire.
By following these maintenance guidelines and scheduling regular service appointments, you can ensure that your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle remains in optimal condition, providing you with a safe and enjoyable riding experience for years to come.
The Multi-Point Inspection
Every time you bring your bike in for service, depending on the service interval, our master technicians will perform a thorough multi-point inspection to ensure your Harley is running at its best. This comprehensive inspection includes:
- Fluid levels check and top-off
- Brake system inspection
- Tire tread and pressure check
- Battery condition and connections check
- Drive belt and chain inspection
- Lights and signals functionality check
- Exhaust system inspection
- Suspension and steering check
- Clutch operation check
- Throttle and cable inspection
- Horn operation check
- Engine and transmission fluid leak check
- Oil filter inspection
- Fuel system inspection
- Cooling system check
- Frame and body inspection
- Air filter check
- Controls and levers check
- Wiring and electrical connections inspection
- Radiator and coolant hose inspection
- Foot pegs and controls check
- Kickstand inspection
- Primary chain case inspection
- Fuel line inspection
- Speedometer and odometer check
- Final drive inspection
- Overall safety check
This comprehensive inspection ensures that your motorcycle is safe, reliable, and ready for the road. Our goal is to catch any potential issues early and keep your bike performing at its best.