A Road Rider's guide to Motorcycle Logbook Servicing Melbourne
Motorcycle servicing - when do you need it and what does it involve?
A motorcycle requires regular servicing to ensure safety, performance, and reliability. Unlike cars, motorcycles are more sensitive to mechanical wear, so even minor issues—like low tyre pressure or a loose chain—can significantly affect handling and rider safety. Regular servicing helps detect and fix problems early and extends the life of the bike’s engine and components. It also ensures critical systems like brakes, suspension, and electrics are functioning properly, which is especially important given the rider's exposure and limited protection. Additionally, keeping up with servicing helps maintain warranty coverage and resale value.
It is a bit tricky to write a generic blog about servicing as every brand and model runs a different schedule, however as a general guide you can consider the following....
Break In Service
Frequency: Usually once the bike has done its first 1,000kms.
A motorcycle break-in service is performed to ensure the bike is running correctly and safely after initial use. It includes a full safety check, inspection of all fluids, and replacement of the engine oil and filter if required. A 30-point chassis check is carried out, covering lubrication, chain tension, tyre condition, and other key adjustments. The suspension is inspected, and the electrical charging system and battery are tested. We can also plug into your diagnostics and clear codes if required. This service is completed with a test ride to confirm everything is functioning properly.
General Service
Frequency: Check your manual as each brand runs a different schedule, however as a rule of thumb this should be at least once a year, or every 5,000-6,000kms.
This service includes checking and topping up fluids, replacing the oil and filter, and cleaning or replacing the air filter as needed. Throttle bodies may be synced, and idle settings adjusted. A 30-point chassis inspection is carried out as per the break in service, along with an inspection of suspension. The electrical system, including the battery, lights, and indicators, is tested, and diagnostics are run to clear any fault codes and reset the service indicator. The service concludes with a test ride to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
Yamaha owners - please note Yamaha has a 20,000k service which includes the above along with brake fluid and coolant replacement and spark plug replacement.
Major Service
Frequency: This really does vary per manufacturer, so it is important to consult your owners manual as it is hard to note a rule of thumb. Usually it is a period over the 20,000km mark - some models can be as early as 20,000k or 24,000k some 30,000k, or sometimes 40-50,000k.
A major service includes all the checks and tasks of a general service plus all fluid replacements (inc brake/ clutch fluid & coolant), oil and filter replacement, air filter cleaning or replacement, throttle and chassis adjustments, suspension checks, and diagnostics. In addition, it involves performing a valve clearance check. On some Ducati models, belt inspections or replacements are also done at this service. Any gear box or final drive fluids will also be replaced if the bike is equipped with these. A major service is important to ensure long-term reliability and performance of your motorcycle.
If you are unsure if your bike is up to scratch, it is important to consider that your bike should be serviced annually. There are things that deteriorate like fluids, chains go dry, tires flat, oil goes bad - even if it is just sitting and not being ridden.
Contact us at Platinum Motorcycles Melbourne for price and availability to give your motorbike some of the TLC it needs.