Riding a motorcycle on the highway is a thrilling experience for the adventure-loving individuals. One of the most convenient rides, motorbikes are an ideal transport to dodge traffic jams.
Even though motorbikes don’t cost much but it is ideal to purchase second-hand bikes.
Several bikes owners only purchase the vehicle to have fun.
The only place left for the vehicle is their garage after they get tired of it. They are left there for years to rust to rot. These bikes only need a few tweaks before they are ready for roads again.
About $25 to $75 are required to bring these bikes to their original condition. With the right tools and knowledge, you will be able to fix the motorbike in a few hours. Here are some tips regarding motorcycle restoration.
1. Do Some Research
Before purchasing a bike, do some extensive research. Find out whether the components of the bike you are purchasing are available in market or not.
There is no use for motorbike, whose parts have gone extinct in the market. Also, see the prices of the parts as you don’t want to go over-budget due to the costly spark plug.
Furthermore, check the and calculate how much money you have to spend on it. You do not want to buy a vehicle which does not leave your garage even after spending a hefty amount on it.
Avoid vehicles with seized engines. Check the shift of the gears and compression. We recommend that you buy semi-classic for motorbike restoration.
2. Make a List
The process of restoration can be a bit mind-boggling. Even an expert mechanic can get about confused about where to start first. Before dismantling the old motorcycle, note down the things you need to do for restoring motorcycle.
Take pictures of parts so you know where to place them when you assemble the bike. Make a to keep track of all the repairing that needs to be done.
Notice which parts have to be replaced. Usually, second-hand bikes only need screws tightened but sometimes there are parts which need to be changed. Purchase those first before starting the restoration process. Do not forget to clean the parts after you have to remove them.
3. Check the Condition of the Battery
Restore motorcycles by focusing on the battery first. Checking the condition of the battery does not require any expertise in the field of mechanics. As the old bikes have been sitting idly for years, there is a chance that the battery has died out.
First, check the service manual to know about batteries voltage. Take the battery out first and put it on charging. Mostly, batteries take 10 hours to charge but it is better to leave it overnight.
If the battery charges 75 percent during this time, then throw it away and buy a new one. Also, inspect its fluid level of the battery.
4. Have a Look at the Fuel Delivery System
Before examining the fuel system, drain out the tank and dispose of the fuel properly. Then inspect for rust in the tank. To remove rust, put washers or pennies inside the tank.
Fill 2/3 of the tank with soapy water and close the lid. Shake the tank a few times and drain it afterward. Wash the tank with fresh water. It is ideal that you use pressure water or garden hose to clean it. Now just dry it off.
Look for any leaks in the fuel line. Replace it if you find any faults. Ensure that the new lines are secured tightly. Also, have look at the fuel filter. If the gas doesn’t flow through it, then it requires some cleaning. Use carb cleaner for this process.
If fuel is still facing hinderance in flowing through it, then buy a new one.
5. Checking the Carburetor for Motorcycle Restoration
Dealing with a carburetor is as simple as ABC. Even an amateur can handle this part. Remove Carburettor gently so rubber intake boot doesn’t get damaged. Remove bowl, float and needle valve and clean them thoroughly. Put them together in reverse order.
If carburetor still doesn’t work properly, then rebuild it. To know whether it needs any rebuilding, inspect the condition of jets and gaskets.
Purchase a carburetor rebuild kit which will include all the jets and caskets you need to make it as good as new. Go for reliable dealers as you don’t want any faulty parts to become part of your motorcycle.
Before going on the ride, fire up the motorbike to check whether the carburetor is an ideal condition to deal with the journey or not.
6. Don’t Forget the Spark Plugs
For firing up the engines, spark plugs are required in perfect condition. Worn or sooty plugs should be taken away from the bike as immediately as possible.
To check the condition of the plug, crank up the engine. If plugs are in working perfectly, you will see them making a blue spark. If there is no spark, check the electric system for the faulty component.
Another way to check the condition of the spark plug by using a pressure gauge to examine the compression. You can also place your finger or thumb on the empty plug hole. Ask your friend to start up the engine.
Pressure around your finger will indicate the quality of the plug. To clean the spark plug, buy a wire brush, high-quality carb cleaner, and compressed air.
7. New Color?
Maybe consider a new color for your bike. Find out more about paint colors.
Build Your Own Motorbike
We have provided you with a guide to how to restore your motorbike. Instead of spending thousands of dollars to buy a new bike, spend a few bucks on a second-hand one.
The motorcycle restoration process can be done by anyone. You don’t require to visit any mechanic.
Before buying the motorbike, examine its condition. Don’t forget about the . Ask the advice of your friend before purchasing it. Start the engine, examine its plug and inspect the carburetor.
You don’t need to spend your savings on a bike which can never be restored.
