Repair / Repairs
Motorcycle maintenance and repair tutorials
Every job, grouped by who can do it. Workshop jobs explain what to check safely and what to ask the workshop for.
Rider job No special tools
- Adjust a drum brakeRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Adjust clutch lever free playRider job · 10 to 15 min
- Adjust rear spring preloadRider job · 5 to 15 min
- Adjust throttle free playRider job · 10 min
- Build a basic motorcycle tool kitRider job · 30 min to plan, then built up over time
- Buy, borrow or make a special toolRider job · 15 min of planning
- Centre the brake shoes when refitting a drum wheelRider job · 5 min
- Check air cooling (fins, airflow, mixture)Rider job · 20 to 40 min
- Check and adjust chain slackRider job · 20 to 30 min
- Check and top up coolantRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Check brake fluid level and conditionRider job · 5 min
- Check brake hoses and banjo boltsRider job · 10 min
- Check brake pad wearRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Check exhaust mounts and heat shieldsRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Check fuses and relaysRider job · 10 to 30 min
- Check swap battery contacts and latchRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Check the centre standRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Check the charger and cableRider job · 10 min
- Check the engine oil levelRider job · 5 to 10 min (estimate, includes warm-up and settling)
- Check the fuel tank ventRider job · 10 to 20 min
- Check the side standRider job · 10 to 20 min
- Check tyre pressureRider job · 5 min
- Choose and use calipers and micrometersRider job · 30 min
- Choose and use spanners and sockets without rounding fastenersRider job · 5 min per fastener
- Choose the right switch for a 12 V circuitRider job · 10 min
- Choose the right wire type and size for a circuitRider job · 15 min
- Clean and lubricate the chainRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Clean and lubricate the fuel capRider job · 10 to 20 min
- Clean and tighten battery terminalsRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Clean or replace the air filterRider job · 15 to 40 min (estimate, plus drying time for foam)
- Clear a flooded engineRider job · 10 to 30 min
- Do a range testRider job · one full charge and ride, about one day
- Find a fault step by stepRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Handle a damaged battery packRider job · 5 to 15 min to make safe; then hand over
- Identify how the front axle is held before removing the wheelRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Identify how the rear axle and brake are held before removing the wheelRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Identify the size of a drive chainRider job · 10 min
- Inspect sprocketsRider job · 10 to 20 min
- Inspect the charge port and plugRider job · 10 min
- Inspect the front forksRider job · 10 min
- Inspect tyres for wear and damageRider job · 10 min
- Jump start a motorcycle safelyRider job · 10 to 15 min
- Learn the feel of correct bolt torque on a junk partRider job · 1 h
- Lubricate control cablesRider job · 20 to 40 min
- Measure fuel consumptionRider job · 2 to 3 tanks of normal riding
- Periodic service scheduleRider job · reading 10 min; services vary (see each job)
- Plug a tubeless tyre punctureRider job · 15 to 25 min
- Pre-ride checkRider job · 2 min daily; 10 to 15 min weekly
- Read the tyre date code and tread wear markerRider job · 5 min
- Remove, check, gap and fit a spark plugRider job · 15 to 20 min
- Replace a bulbRider job · 10 to 30 min
- Road test to diagnose a faultRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Rough compression check with a thumbRider job · 5 to 10 min
- Service brake and clutch lever pivotsRider job · 15 to 30 min
- Set up a safe place to work on a motorcycleRider job · 20 min to set up
- Store an electric motorcycleRider job · 30 min to prepare; checks every month
- Test fuel for waterRider job · 10 min
- Tighten and adjust mirrorsRider job · 10 min
- Use a torque wrench correctlyRider job · 5 min
Home workshop Basic tools and some experience
- Adjust a twin leading shoe drum brakeHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Adjust carburettor idle speed and mixtureHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Adjust the choke cableHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Adjust the rear brake pedalHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Aim the headlightHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Align the front wheel, forks and handlebarHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Assess a bike that does not run before you buy or restore itHome workshop · 1 to 2 h
- Bleed a hydraulic clutchHome workshop · 30 to 45 min
- Bring a bike back into use after storageHome workshop · 2 to 4 h
- Change scooter final drive oilHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Change the engine oil and clean the strainerHome workshop · 40 to 60 min
- Check a brake discHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check a manual or automatic compression releaseHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Check a rusted silencer and choose a repairHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Check a wheel for runoutHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Check a wound rotor, slip rings and brushesHome workshop · 45 min
- Check and adjust valve clearanceHome workshop · 45 to 90 min (estimate, screw-and-locknut type)
- Check and replace a tyre valveHome workshop · 10 min to check; 30 to 60 min to replace
- Check and tighten spokesHome workshop · 20 to 60 min
- Check battery state and healthHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check chain guides, sliders and guardsHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check chassis fastenersHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Check cooling of the motor and controllerHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check engine mounting boltsHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check for a spark safelyHome workshop · 10 to 15 min
- Check for brake dragHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check hub motor bearings and playHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check power to the instrumentsHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check regenerative brakingHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check the 12 V auxiliary systemHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check the automatic spark advance unitHome workshop · 30 min
- Check the carburettor float and needle valveHome workshop · 30 to 60 min with the carburettor off
- Check the chain for wearHome workshop · 15 to 20 min
- Check the choke or starter valveHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Check the crankcase breatherHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Check the cush drive rubbersHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Check the fuel pump (fuel injection)Home workshop · 15 to 45 min for the home checks
- Check the fuel tap, lines and flowHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Check the gear lever and shift linkageHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check the rear shock absorbersHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check the speed sensorHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Check the steering head bearingsHome workshop · 10 to 20 min
- Check the swingarm pivotHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Check the throttle, brake and stand interlocksHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Check variator rollers and slidersHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Check wheel bearingsHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Choose the right spark plug heat rangeHome workshop · 30 min plus a test ride
- Clean a brake caliper and free the pistonsHome workshop · 45 to 90 min per caliper
- Clean a handlebar switchHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Clean and regrease a wheel bearingHome workshop · 30 to 45 min per bearing
- Clean and seal electrical connectorsHome workshop · 15 to 45 min
- Clean and tighten earth connectionsHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Clean fork sealsHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Clean the carburettorHome workshop · 1.5 to 3 h
- Clean the throttle bodyHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Diagnose a charging faultHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Diagnose exhaust smoke by colourHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Do a voltage drop testHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Drain old or contaminated fuelHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Find a coolant leakHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Find a short circuitHome workshop · 30 to 120 min
- Find a wiring faultHome workshop · 30 to 90 min
- Find an intake air leakHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Find and fix an exhaust leakHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Find and fix rattlesHome workshop · 20 to 60 min
- Find out where a stuck engine is lockedHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Find out why the engine will not turn overHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Find the moment the contact points openHome workshop · 30 min
- Find what is draining the batteryHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Fit LED indicators correctlyHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Free a spark arrester blocked with oily carbonHome workshop · 1 to 2 h
- Free stuck clutch plates and check the clutch release rodHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Hone a cylinder to break the glazeHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Identify piston ring types and which way up they goHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Inspect and replace the scooter drive beltHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Inspect drained oil for cluesHome workshop · 10 to 15 min (estimate, during an oil change)
- Inspect, clean and replace contact breaker pointsHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Join two wires by solderingHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Join wires with crimp connectorsHome workshop · 10 to 20 min
- Loosen a tight screw with an impact driverHome workshop · 5 to 10 min per screw
- Lubricate or replace the throttle cableHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Make a compression tester adapter from an old spark plugHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Make a rounded tyre lever for fitting the last beadHome workshop · 1 to 2 h
- Make a simple press to fit wheel bearingsHome workshop · 20 min to make, 10 min per bearing
- Make a simple spark testerHome workshop · 15 min
- Make a simple special tool from scrapHome workshop · 30 min to 2 h
- Measure suspension sagHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Read a spark plugHome workshop · 10 to 15 min, plus a short ride
- Read a wiring diagram and trace a circuitHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Read electric drive error codesHome workshop · 10 to 20 min
- Read engine fault codes (fuel injection)Home workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Read flywheel timing marks and the spark advanceHome workshop · 30 min
- Refit or replace the gear leverHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Remove a rounded, seized or broken fastenerHome workshop · 15 min to 1 h
- Remove and fit an engine oil sealHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Remove and refit an electric starter motorHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Remove and refit the front wheelHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Remove and refit the rear wheelHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Repair a puncture in an inner tubeHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Replace a 12 V batteryHome workshop · 20 to 40 min, plus first charge
- Replace brake fluid and bleed the brakesHome workshop · 30 to 60 min per circuit
- Replace disc brake padsHome workshop · 30 to 60 min per caliper
- Replace the clutch cableHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Replace the coolantHome workshop · 45 to 90 min
- Replace the drain plug sealing washerHome workshop · 30 to 45 min (estimate, done with an oil change)
- Replace the fuel filterHome workshop · 20 to 40 min for an inline filter; in-tank filters are workshop jobs
- Replace the speedometer cableHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Service a drum brakeHome workshop · 45 to 90 min per wheel
- Service footpegs and foot pedalsHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Set contact-breaker points gap and timing on an older bikeHome workshop · 1 to 2 h
- Tap a stuck cylinder loose without breaking the finsHome workshop · 30 min
- Tell an ignition misfire from a fuel misfire with a timing lightHome workshop · 30 min
- Test a battery with a hydrometer and a load checkHome workshop · 30 min
- Test a coolant thermostat in hot waterHome workshop · 30 to 45 min
- Test a lighting circuitHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Test a rectifier with an ohmmeterHome workshop · 20 min
- Test an ignition condenserHome workshop · 15 min
- Test and adjust the brake light switchesHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Test and charge a 12 V batteryHome workshop · 15 min to test; charging takes many hours
- Test engine compressionHome workshop · 30 to 45 min
- Test fuel supply with a small shot of fuelHome workshop · 10 to 15 min
- Test the charging systemHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Test the engine stop switchHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Test the fuel level senderHome workshop · 20 to 30 min for checks on the bike; 1 to 2 h if the sender is removed
- Test the hornHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Test the ignition coil and plug capHome workshop · 30 to 60 min (fuel tank may need removing)
- Test the ignition pick-upHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Test the ignition switchHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Test the indicator flasher relayHome workshop · 15 to 30 min
- Test the neutral switchHome workshop · 20 to 45 min
- Test the radiator fan and its switchHome workshop · 30 to 45 min
- Test the regulator rectifierHome workshop · 30 to 45 min
- Test the side stand, clutch and neutral switchesHome workshop · 20 to 40 min
- Test the starter circuitHome workshop · 30 to 60 min
- Test the starter relayHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Test the stator (generator coils)Home workshop · 20 to 30 min to test; replacement is workshop work
- Trace an oil leakHome workshop · 30 to 60 min plus a short ride
- Use a test light and a multimeter to trace a faultHome workshop · 20 to 30 min
- Wire an accessory safelyHome workshop · 60 to 120 min
Workshop job Check safely, then hand it to a workshop
- Add a spacer to firm a sagging fork springWorkshop job · 20 to 30 min per leg
- Adjust a manual cam chain tensionerWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min
- Adjust or replace steering head bearingsWorkshop job · 15 min assessment; adjustment or replacement time set by the workshop
- Assess bottom end and internal engine damageWorkshop job · 1 h assessment; strip 4 to 10 h
- Assess internal gearbox faultsWorkshop job · 1 h external checks; internal inspection is usually a full day with engine removal
- Assess the top end (cylinder, piston, valves)Workshop job · 3 to 6 h strip and measure
- Balance a wheelWorkshop job · assessment 10 min; balancing about 15 to 30 min per wheel
- Check a bike after water exposureWorkshop job · rider steps 15 min; workshop assessment 1 to 2 hours
- Check a combined braking system (CBS)Workshop job · 15 to 30 min assessment
- Check a semi-automatic or centrifugal clutchWorkshop job · 30 min (outside checks); 1.5 to 3 h workshop assessment
- Check a valve and seat with a solvent leak testWorkshop job · 20 to 40 min
- Check and adjust valve clearance on shim-type enginesWorkshop job · 90 to 180 min
- Check and set counterbalancer timing marksWorkshop job · 45 to 90 min
- Check ball and roller bearings removed from an engineWorkshop job · 20 to 40 min
- Check high-voltage insulationWorkshop job · 30 to 90 min
- Check motor phase connectorsWorkshop job · 20 to 40 min after isolation
- Check motor position (Hall) sensorsWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min
- Check plain bearing clearance with PlastigaugeWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min
- Check starter brushes, commutator and armature on the benchWorkshop job · 45 to 90 min
- Check the brake master cylinderWorkshop job · 15 min assessment; overhaul time set by the workshop
- Check the cam chain and tensionerWorkshop job · 30 min check, 3 to 6 h if parts are replaced
- Check the engine sensors (TPS, MAP, temperature)Workshop job · 10 min for home checks; 30 to 90 min at a workshop
- Check the fuel injectorWorkshop job · 10 min for home checks; 1 to 2 h at a workshop
- Check the ignition timingWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min assessment
- Check the kickstart mechanismWorkshop job · 15 min outside checks; 2 to 4 h internal assessment
- Check the oxygen sensorWorkshop job · 10 min for home checks; 30 to 60 min at a workshop
- Check the scooter clutch and bellWorkshop job · 20 min (look inside the case); 1 to 2 h workshop assessment
- Check the starter clutchWorkshop job · 2 to 3 h assessment
- Check the thermostatWorkshop job · 30 min assessment; 1 to 2 h replacement
- Check the two-stroke oil pump and linesWorkshop job · 30 min check; 1 to 2 h with bleeding and setting
- Check the water pump and impellerWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h
- Cut and lap a valve seatWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h per head
- Decarbonise a two-stroke exhaust and portWorkshop job · 2 to 4 h
- Diagnose a controller faultWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min first assessment
- Diagnose a motor faultWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min first assessment
- Diagnose a suspected CDI or ECU faultWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h assessment
- Diagnose an ABS warning lightWorkshop job · 15 to 30 min assessment
- Do a leak-down testWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min
- Fill and activate a new dry-charged batteryWorkshop job · 1 h plus charging time
- Fit a fork seal square without damaging itWorkshop job · 30 to 45 min per leg
- Fit piston rings and deglaze the boreWorkshop job · 90 to 150 min
- Free a seized piston with grease pressureWorkshop job · 2 to 4 h plus soaking time
- Inspect a piston and read its size marksWorkshop job · 30 to 45 min
- Inspect and replace clutch plates and springsWorkshop job · 1.5 to 3 h (assessment and plate change, engine in frame)
- Inspect the frame after a crashWorkshop job · home assessment 30 to 45 min; workshop measurement 1 to 2 h
- Inspect the gear shift drum, pawl and forksWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h
- Join a chain with a clip, press-fit or rivet linkWorkshop job · 20 to 40 min
- Make an electric motorcycle safe to work onWorkshop job · 10 to 20 min for the rider steps; workshop isolation time depends on the model
- Measure piston-to-cylinder clearance and bore wearWorkshop job · 45 to 90 min
- Open a spring-loaded fork cap safelyWorkshop job · 10 to 20 min per leg
- Plan a spoke wheel re-lace and swap spokes pair by pairWorkshop job · 3 to 6 h
- Pre-delivery inspectionWorkshop job · about 1.5 to 3 h including assembly and test ride
- Pressure and vacuum test a two-stroke crankcaseWorkshop job · 45 to 90 min
- Rebuild a brake caliperWorkshop job · 15 to 30 min assessment; rebuild time set by the workshop
- Record and set cam timing marksWorkshop job · 60 to 180 min
- Refit a kickstarter shaft, gear and return springWorkshop job · 1 to 3 h
- Remove a wheel bearing that has broken up in the hubWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min per bearing
- Remove and inspect the starter motorWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h assessment
- Remove and refit a flywheel (rotor) with a pullerWorkshop job · 30 to 60 min
- Remove and refit valves, springs and valve sealsWorkshop job · 2 to 3 h
- Remove rust from a fuel tankWorkshop job · Assessment 20 min; treatment 1 to 2 days at a workshop
- Replace a tyreWorkshop job · assessment 15 min; fitting about 30 to 60 min per wheel
- Replace an engine cover gasketWorkshop job · 1 to 3 h assessment and repair (estimate, depends on the cover)
- Replace broken spokes or relace a wheelWorkshop job · 1 to 4 h
- Replace fork oil and sealsWorkshop job · 15 min assessment; service time set by the workshop
- Replace the chain and sprocketsWorkshop job · 1 to 2.5 h
- Replace the output shaft sealWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h (estimate, chain bikes)
- Replace wheel bearingsWorkshop job · assessment 20 min; replacement about 45 to 90 min per wheel
- Reset the idle after throttle body workWorkshop job · 15 to 45 min at a workshop with the right tool
- Seat a stubborn tyre bead on the rimWorkshop job · 10 to 20 min
- Set points timing on a flywheel magnetoWorkshop job · 1 to 2 h
- Set the fork oil level with a simple gaugeWorkshop job · 20 to 30 min per leg
- Split and rejoin the engine crankcaseWorkshop job · 3 to 6 h with the engine out
- Take a gearbox apart and keep the parts in orderWorkshop job · 3 to 5 h
- True a spoked wheel by small spoke adjustmentsWorkshop job · 1 to 3 h
- Undo the fork damper bolt when the rod spinsWorkshop job · 20 to 40 min per leg