Get peak performance with maintenance tips for a 2-stroke dirt bike

Summer is here, and you are raring to go on your dirt bike, but your bike has just come out of winter hibernation in stale shape. Not ideal! Whether you are cleaning or replacing worn-out parts, these maintenance tips for a 2-stroke dirt bike will get your bike into top shape and keep it that way during the playful, warm months. Before you do anything, we suggest you fish out the service manual, which is super handy for the refresher that is about to begin.

Maintenance checklist for your 2-stroke dirt bike during the summer

Oil

Rule no.1 of bike maintenance is to empty the crankcase of used engine oil if the bike is resting for a while. If you hadn’t done that, start emptying immediately. Used engine oil can cause corrosion. However, storing the bike with no oil in it forms condensation that leads to rusting. Before letting your bike sit in for the long haul, fill up the engine with fresh oil. Fresh oil does not have as many acidic or corroding properties as used oil.

If your dirt bike has been sitting idle for months with fresh oil in the tank, change the oil before using it again. This way, you are avoiding broken-down oil and keeping the transmission fuel fresh. Do not forget to regularly change folk oil to extend the life of fork bushings and seals. Aggressive clutch use on 2-stroke dirt bikes causes clutch material to float around in transmission and clutch components, causing premature wear. So, drain and refill fresh oil routinely.

Filters

A dirty air filter obstructs the airflow, damaging the engine by letting in dirt particles into the combustion chamber. These particles are harmful to pistons and other engine parts. When a blocked air filter gathers moisture, it is detrimental to air filtration. Clean your air filter and inspect it for filter oil coverage and dirt and debris. Sand and silt get in the filter when riding on dirt tracks.

Brakes

Brakes on a 2-stroke engine should be in optimum condition; after all, you are attempting devilish speeds on these bikes. Make sure to check front brake and rear brake fluid levels and while you are at it, check for brake pad wear and tear. Replace them if necessary. Brake fluid absorbs moisture, damaging hydraulic components and causing brake fade and loss. Manufacturers recommend DOT-4 brake fluid for dirt bikes.

Spark plug

Looking after your spark plug is vital for engine maintenance. Oil gets mixed into the gasoline on 2-stroke dirt bikes leading to spark plug fouling sooner than 4-stroke dirt bikes. When you detect fouling, either use a stock heat range plug or switch to a plug one range hotter. Never replace your plug too far outside the recommended heat range.

Piston rings

2-strokes engines used for racing needs piston change after 15 - 20 hours of riding. Less aggressively run bikes can go for 50 hours before piston needs changing.

Tyres

If knobs on your tyres are broken or rounded off, it's time to replace them with new ones. Adjust the tyre pressures to their safe margins before riding.

Inspect around radiators, coolant pipes, and the water pump gasket. Ensure there are no leaks.

What you need to maintain your 2-stroke dirt bike

Dirt bike maintenance requires the right equipment and safety wear. You will need;

• Safety gloves
• Safety glasses
• Spoke Wrenches
• T-Handles
• Tyre Gauges
• Plug Wrenches and spanners
• Stem Nut & Axle Nut Wrenches
• Chain Tools
• Wire Pliers
• Torque Wrenches
• Tyre Inflator

You should have an extra spark plug, fuel filter/pipe, lubricants, cleaning agents, brake fluid, and air filter.

Why you should purchase maintenance gear from Mini Bikes Off Road?

To ensure the highest safety standards, we only sell genuine maintenance gear and spare parts. We have an extensive range of maintenance products. You get free delivery on all orders over £100.

Buy the latest dirt bikes from Mini Bikes Off Road and discover the best electric and petrol bike options for Motocross and weekend trail riding.