Riding and Warranties

Purchasing a motorcycle?  If it’s used, ask if they have a service ledger, some people keep it like a baby diary.  If you're going the brand new avenue, with anything new you buy, we always think of the overhead prior, if any.  Motorcycles are something you want to make sure that each and every part and function of the bike is in top notch shape so a warranty is a good idea.  Servicing regularly is key.  Keeping up on oil changes and checking tires, lights, exhaust, clutch, brakes and the list goes on.

Always keep up with your change of email or address to ensure if there’s any recall notices, you will receive them timely.  Your life and the life of others, depends on the maintenance of your bike.

If you buy new, you’ll most likely get that warranty.  When the time to renew your service agreement or extend your warranty, don’t neglect to check numerous things before committing.  For starters, find out what exactly is covered and make sure the company mails you a complete packet.  If there’s something you are unsure of, ask.  Even challenge the service agreement as sometimes, you’ll get through to the right person that will make exceptions.

Most renewal agreements out there are retroactive from your original warranty, meaning if you still have a year left on your policy, your extended warranty will start when you’re original warranty started.

If you have the monetary capability within your budget, it’s worth its weight in gold to have coverage simply for peace of mind. The key is to make sure that you are bringing your bike to the service center that is within your warranty plan to get its work done.  Don’t just drop off the bike, ask questions!  If you feel like the starter is going, mention it.  If you feel that the clutch needs adjustments, mention it.  Don’t rely on a quick test drive, you ride the bike and most likely know your bike more than anyone else.

When you begin to calculate the cost of certain items, service or replacements of anything from your starter to brakes, clutch to shocks, and factor in the additional cost of labor.  Then think about or jot the numbers down, for something as minor as replacing a your exhaust, you already have used up a good portion of the fee you’ve paid for the warranty, which makes your contract worth the additional expense, if your policy is one that will cover those items.

As any motorcycle rider would know, you want your ride to be smooth, secure and fun.  There’s nothing like wind therapy and I recommend if for everyone.  Riders network and discuss where to take your bike for service, best place to order parts, what’s the latest parts for your model and suggestions on what will make your bike look cool or more comfortable.  The one thing you should ask yourself before you make a big change is this, “if I change this, will my warranty still cover my bike?”  Proper servicing makes for the longevity of your bike along with maintaining the value of your motorcycle in good standing, however if you put parts on that effect the way your bike rides, this in turn might be a default for your service.  While the bike looks great, you may jeopardize the warranty coverage.

Every rider is also very proud of the make and model of their bike, taking pictures and showing it off every opportunity they get. It’s like one giant fraternity of brothers and sisters, and it doesn’t stop there; it’s T-shirts or jackets to sunglasses and jewelry stamped with the brand of their bike.  If you like your bike shop, you’ll tend to wear their t-shirts and next thing you know it, the shop is growing and that’s cool.  Just check that they are an authorized dealer/shop for your bike and warranty before you make that appointment, you’ll save money in the long run by just asking a few questions.

If I’ve given you some tips, stay tuned for my next article about hurricane or storm prep and how people wheel their bikes into their homes.  Then about alarms and when to use them.