Our workshop is cranking up the volume when it comes to motorbike maintenance as more riders get ready to take to the road again.
The workload is less in the winter, with many riders storing their bikes, but now riders are eager to get their bikes serviced, maintained and given a fresh MOT test ready for warmer weather.
That means waiting times for workshop appointments are growing.
Gary Greenslade, a senior technician and MOT tester who also works on our service reception, said customers should currently allow at least a couple of weeks to get a convenient appointment.
“If you allow two or three weeks there’s currently a good chance of getting you in on the day or time you want. But it will get busier from now on, especially now we have five brands.”
Waiting times get longer closer to the riding season which, for many people, starts around Easter.
March is also a busy month for sales with the launch of the new registration plate. That means a lot of new motorbikes will soon be booked into the workshop for their first service.
“Some bikes come back after just 300 miles for the first service so after March the workshop gets very busy,” said Gary.
If you don’t want to ride your motorbike to the workshop for maintenance you can arrange collection and return with us for a reasonable charge.
If you are preparing to ride your motorbike again after winter storage here are some checks which should also be carried out regularly during the riding season.
- You should have given your bike a good clean before storing it but some more TLC is a good way to spot any problems.
- Check tyre pressures and tread depth, look for cuts and bulges.
- Check levels – engine oil, brake fluid and coolant.
- All lights must work, including the one for the rear number plate.
- Ensure the chain is lubricated, correctly tensioned and not worn out.
- Make sure all controls and horn work.
- Check for leaks – engine oil, petrol, brake fluid and front forks.
- Test brakes to make sure they stop safely and are not binding.
- Check for loose parts, nuts, bolts and screws.
Contact our workshop for servicing, maintenance, new tyres and MOT tests on 01473 257401, email workshop@orwell.co.uk, click the servicing or MOT enquiry links at orwell.co.uk/workshop or visit our Ranelagh Road showroom in Ipswich.
