If you own a Harley Davidson, then it’s more than likely your pride and joy. Harley’s are not a cheap investment either, so you probably have quite a large sum of money tied up in your luxury bike.
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As a result, taking great care of your Harley should always be a main priority, and you need to spend a little time looking after your bike if you want it to perform to the best of its abilities for years to come. Fortunately, this guide contains everything that you need to know to preserve and protect your Harley Davidson for the foreseeable future, and it couldn’t be easier to get started today.
Store your Harley in a dry, protected location
First and foremost, it’s vital that you can take the opportunity to store your Harley in a dry, protected location where it cannot be damaged by the weather or any other outdoor influences. Leaving your luxury bike outside in the blistering heat during the height of the summer is going to cause aesthetic fading as well as probably overheating should you try to drive your Harley, while allowing your bike to get engulfed by rain or snow can cause severe rust and corrosion.
Equally, leaving your Harley exposed outside means anyone who passes by your home will see your luxury bike, increasing the risk of theft or damage considerably. The best way to store your Harley is inside a garage, shed or carport/canopy, as this will provide your bike with sufficient protection against the elements and any criminal activity. Additionally, investing in a new graphics kit can further personalize your Harley while adding an extra layer of protection against scratches and wear from outdoor exposure.
If you opt for a closed storage facility then be sure to lock the doors or gates for extra security, and if you choose a carport that’s open on one or more sides, think about chaining your luxury bike to ensure its safe from the danger of theft.
Photo by Harley-Davidson on Unsplash
Don’t forget to change/refill your engine oil
It’s absolutely vital that you don’t forget to change your engine oil, as it’s one of the most effective yet simplest favors that you can do for your Harley. Engine oil needs to be changed and refilled regularly to perform all of its necessary tasks in the most efficient manner, so you must not skip over this step if you want your bike to thrive.
The age of your Harley will influence how often you need to change your engine oil, but you can check inside your Harley Davidson Touring repair manuals to find more information about your specific bike type and its engine oil needs. It’s important to note that your Harley will likely get through more oil during the summer compared with winter, so bear this in mind to keep your bike in the best condition.
Avoid using any old or low quality engine oil when you are changing or refilling your engine, as this will likely force your Harley into using more gas and it may even reduce your engine’s lifespan over time. If you don’t know how to change or refill your engine oil then do not fret, as you can easily find a trusted mechanic to complete this task for a very reasonable price.
Photo by Harley-Davidson on Unsplash
Always take the time to clean your Harley
Last but not least, always take the time to clean your Harley Davidson if you want your luxury bike to serve you well for years to come. Riding your bike down dirt roads with the wind through your hair is a liberating experience, but all of that dirt and dust is going to stick to your Harley and over time regular riding can encourage a buildup of gunk and grime.
This can block filters and generally make your luxury bike look a little less enviable, so it’s always a good idea to take the time to clean your Harley whenever you get the opportunity. Washing your bike can also give you the chance to check for damage or any broken parts that might need your attention, so although it’s not the funnest of tasks, it needs to be done. Never clean your Harley out in the open on a sunny day, as this will more than likely leave watermarks across your bike that can be hard to get off.
Don’t be afraid to take your Harley for a short ride around on a few solid, well maintained roads to dry out any water in the crevices – just avoid those pesky dirt roads that will ruin all of your hard work!
Top image: By Daniel Thürler on Unsplash
I am a 50-something Torontonian who loves everything about my city. It’s been my home, my playground, for my entire life. I went to school here. I met my wife here. I own real estate here. I love writing about the transformation of my city on the world stage, which hasn’t been anything short of dramatic. That continues on, as I write this. I write on the real estate scene. I write on travel and fashion. I like following the world of luxury watches.
But I love writing about cars – check that, luxury cars, a level of superior, engineering sophistication, high performance and style, that transports you not just from one destination to another but also out of whatever you are going through on a particular day, whatever mood you are in, all to another head space. It’s complete and total exhilaration, head to toe.
Check out my stories, and email me direct at mkeast@regardingluxury.com
