Repair
Motorcycle troubleshooting and repair guides
For commuter motorcycles, scooters and electric bikes: 287 problems, 274 repairs and 172 parts.
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Common problems
- Engine turns over but will not startDo not ride
- Battery goes flat after the bike is parkedRide with care
- Brake lever or pedal feels spongyDo not ride
- Chain is noisy, clattering or slappingRide with care
- Air-cooled engine overheatsStop now
- Sudden loss of power while ridingDo not ride
- Flat tyre on a wheel with an inner tubeDo not ride
- Battery will not chargeDo not ride
- White smoke or steam from the exhaustRide with care
- Brakes squealRide with care
Systems
Starting21 problemsIdle and running18 problemsPower and fuel use9 problemsFuel system17 problemsIgnition11 problemsEngine noise and internals12 problemsSmoke and exhaust12 problemsOil and leaks12 problemsCooling6 problemsClutch8 problemsGearbox and gear change9 problemsChain and sprockets10 problemsScooter automatic drive (CVT)7 problemsBrakes19 problemsSteering7 problemsSuspension13 problemsWheels and tyres17 problemsBattery and charging11 problemsLights, horn and instruments17 problemsWiring, fuses and switches8 problemsControls and cables7 problemsFrame, stands and bodywork8 problemsElectric drive15 problemsElectric battery and charging13 problems
Before you work on a bike
- Work on a stable, level surface with the engine off and cool, unless a step says otherwise.
- Keep fuel away from sparks and flames. Battery acid, brake fluid and coolant harm skin, eyes and paint.
- Brakes, steering, tyres and electric high-voltage systems are safety-critical. If you are unsure, use a workshop.
- Values marked K-Light 125 are for that reference bike. Use your own bike's manual for its values.
