Suzuki Motorcycle Maintenance Schedule

Suzuki motorcycles are some of the most reliable bikes available on the market, with several models available to accommodate different riders and budgets. Built to last, these bikes can tackle harsh weather conditions, rough roads, and long distances. However, Suzuki motorcycles require maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This article outlines Suzuki motorcycle maintenance tasks, including pre-ride inspections, periodic maintenance intervals, and tips on cleaning, lubrication, storage, and operation.

According to consumer reports, Suzuki motorcycles have the second lowest rate of failure among all motorcycle brands. The combination of fewer breakdowns and fewer mechanical issues contributes to their low rate of failure. It also helps that it takes minimal effort and time to keep Suzuki models running in peak condition. However, this does not mean you can put off recommended service intervals.

Suzuki encourages riders to perform thorough inspections every day regardless of whether they ride their bikes frequently or not. Pre-ride safety checks ensure a safer riding experience and also reduce your motorcycle repair costs by helping you identify the issue and perform maintenance before the damage can become too big. Pre-ride safety checks are simple enough that you can do them yourself. If you are uncertain about how to perform different maintenance tasks, it is best to take your motorcycle to the authorized dealers for inspections or contact them for guidance.

The motorcycle components that require daily pre-ride safety checks include:

• Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure that the tire pressure is within prescribed pressure values.
• After taking the reading, jot it down, and tally it with the recommended pressure values provided in the manual.
• Also ensure that the depth of tire tread is not below 1.5 mm.
• Look carefully for cracks, bulges, cuts, holes, other signs of premature tire wear.
• Get your worn out tires replaced the earliest possible.

• With the help of an indicator stick or dipstick, Check whether the engine has adequate oil levels. You can also peek through the observation glass for this task. The oil level should be between the maximum and minimum lines. Add oil to fill up the reservoir if needed and excess oil must be drained.
• If your Suzuki motorcycle features a liquid-cooled engine, then check the coolant level. Add coolant if necessary. 
• Make sure the fuel tank has enough fuel to last the length of your ride.

• Check that the throttle and clutch levers operate smoothly. Pull the levers, hold, and release them to check that they return to their original positions without resistance.
• Check the throttle free play to ensure the throttle smoothly returns to idle.

• Check that the horn can produce sound at a high enough volume. It must be audible even in noisy traffic.

• Check the brake pads for wear and tear. Replace worn-out brake pads.
• Check how responsive the front brake lever and rear brake pedal are.
• Make sure there is enough brake fluid in the reservoir and no leaks. Refill the brake fluid if necessary.

• Check the entire chassis for damage, corrosion, and loose or missing fasteners.
• Tighten the bolts, nuts, and fasteners to the appropriate torque. Check using a torque measuring tool.

• Make sure the chain tension is within the recommended range. Adjust chain tension if required.
• Lubricate the chain properly with drive chain lubricant.

• Check the front forks and rear suspension for any signs of damage. Check the fork oil levels and see if there are any leaks.

• Check that the headlight, tail light, brake lights, turn signals, license plate light, and other electronics are working properly.

• Check the fuse box for blown fuses and replace them if necessary. Always keep spare fuses in your garage.

• Adjust the rearview mirrors to ensure a clear view of everything behind your vehicle.

The periodic maintenance chart below lists every maintenance task that needs to be performed at a certain mileage. These tasks include inspections, lubrications, replacements, and other checks. If your motorcycle has to travel during harsh weather or on rough road conditions, then you may have to conduct maintenance more frequently. Riders with aggressive riding styles should contact authorized dealers to determine how often their Suzuki motorcycles should be serviced. Improper maintenance or failure to perform maintenance at recommended intervals may increase the risk of damage or an accident.

Cleaning your Suzuki motorcycle is part of maintenance even if it is not mentioned in the owner’s manual.

• Remove dirt and grime with cool water. Use a soft brush or sponge to remove hardened mud.
• Once all visible dirt is removed, wash the motorcycle with mild soapy water.
• While it is recommended to wash your motorcycle every week or month, wash your motorcycle immediately if you ride on road salt or near the coast. Salt can cause corrosion due to its oxidative properties. Always use cold water to clean salt. Warm water accelerates oxidation and rust formation.
• When washing your motorcycle, avoid splashing water directly on the brake master cylinder, throttle cable boots, fuel injection system, throttle body, fuel tank cap, spark plugs, and ignition switch.
• Once you are done washing your motorcycle, wipe off any excess moisture and let the vehicle dry in a shady area. 
• If the headlight lens is fogged up after washing, switch on the headlight and let the heat from the bulb cause the moisture to evaporate.

• Do not use strong alkaline and acidic cleaners to wash your bike. Both alkaline and acid are corrosive and can damage the metal, rubber, and plastic parts. They can also cause the paint color to fade.
• Clean the aftermarket Suzuki luggage bags according to the brand’s
• Do not clean fuel injection sensors and throttle bodies with part cleaners and other chemicals. 
• Never clean your Suzuki motorcycle using a high-pressure hose. Powerful blasts of water can cause severe damage to metal and plastic parts, accelerate premature failure or wear and tear, and can increase the rate of corrosion.
• Never use low-grit sandpapers, abrasive sponges, steel wool, metal brushes, scraper blades, rotary tools with abrasive attachments, scouring pads, or emery cloths to clean Suzuki motorcycle parts. They can cause minor to deep scratches on motorcycle parts, ruining their look and finish.

• Thoroughly inspect your Suzuki motorcycle for chipped paint, blisters, and cracked or bubbled paint. It is best to hire a professional to perform  touch-up paint and apply a clear coat. You can also apply touch-up paint on areas that are not as visible as the fuel tank or side covers.
• Apply wax or polish after washing your bike to preserve the paint finish. Because Suzuki motorcycle parts may feature glossy or matte finishes, It is best to consult the owner’s manual to choose the best wax or polish formulated for the right finish.
• Solid waxes are not suited for a matte finish since they can stick to parts and do not come off easily.
• Clean parts with a a matte finish gently. Excessive rubbing can ruin the matte finish look.

Lubrication ensures moving parts function optimally and extend their longevity. Always lubricate your motorcycle’s moving parts after:

• Washing
• Riding in rain
• Before storing
• Operating after long periods of inactivity
• After long-distance rides

To lubricate Suzuki motorcycle parts, you would need drive chain lubricant and grease.

• Do not apply lubricant on electrical switches.
• Do not mix different types of lubricants.
• Do not lubricate maintenance-free parts. For example, if your bike has a belt drive instead of a chain drive, do not lubricate it.
• Do not apply lubricant on brake pads, calipers, and brake rotors.
• Do not apply lubricants other than the ones mentioned in the owner’s manual.
• Do not apply new lubricant without draining the old one. Mixing old and new lubricants can reduce their effectiveness and cause premature wear.

If you plan not to use your Suzuki motorcycle for an extended period, you must take steps to ensure proper storage. Your Suzuki motorcycle must be serviced using the proper tools and equipment before being stored. It is recommended that you get your bike serviced at the authorized Suzuki dealership. However, if you have adequate skills and would prefer to get your motorcycle ready for storage yourself, follow these guidelines:

• Rest your motorcycle on the side stand and lock the handlebars by turning them all the way to the left, and then take out the ignition key.
• Clean the motorcycle with water and neutral detergent. Dry the vehicle after washing.
• Fill the fuel tank with gasoline mixed with gasoline stabilizer. For the correct ratios for both fluids, check the recommendations by the stabilizer manufacturer.
• Next, run the motorcycle engine for a few minutes so the stabilized gasoline enters the fuel injection system.
• Remove the spark plugs and pour 15 ml or one tablespoon of motor oil in each spark plug hole. Do not exceed this amount. Before reinstalling the spark plugs, turn over/crank the engine several times to equally distribute the motor oil around the cylinder.
• Drain the current engine oil and refill fresh oil in the crankcase up to the edge of the hole.
• Cover the air filter intake and muffler outlet with rags to prevent moisture build-up. 
• Remove the battery.
• Clean the battery with a damp cloth or mild soapy solution. Remove rust from the wiring harness and terminals.
• Store the battery in a cool and dry place after cleaning. Protect the battery from frigid conditions or it will freeze. 
• Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure.
• Spray rubber and vinyl parts with a rubber protective spray.
• Spray unpainted metal parts with anti-corrosion spray.
• Apply polish or wax on painted parts.
• Recharge the battery every month.
• Cover the motorcycle properly with a tarp.

Before riding a Suzuki motorcycle that has been in storage for some time, make sure to do the following steps: 

• Clean the motorcycle. Wash it with a mild soapy solution or clean water. Wiping the motorcycle with a damp cloth should also do the job.
• Remove the rags from the air cleaner and muffler outlet.
• Drain the old engine oil and install a new oil filter. Next, add fresh engine oil in the reservoir. Make sure the oil level is between the maximum and minimum lines.
• Take out the spark plugs. Turn the engine several times and then reinstall the spark plugs.
• Reinstall the battery. Consult the battery section in the owner’s manual for correct installation instructions.
• Properly lubricate all the pivot points and moving parts.
• Perform a visual inspection and other pre-ride safety checks mentioned above.
• Start the motorcycle following the instructions in the manual.
• Go on a short test ride in an open, empty space. Make sure the motorcycle is running smoothly. If not, visit an authorized dealership immediately.

Authorized Suzuki dealerships have teams of certified technicians who undergo training to learn the skills necessary to provide the best standard maintenance. Authorized dealerships have the right tools and equipment to detect potential mechanical issues. The purpose of these dealerships is to perform preventive maintenance to increase your motorcycle’s lifespan and improve its performance. They are also the right places to acquire spare OEM parts.

The average maintenance cost of Suzuki motorcycles depends on the model you own, the bike’s age, condition, mileage, and required maintenance tasks. Oil changes usually cost between $30-$60. Tire replacements can cost between $300-$650 for a single pair. Chain lubrication and adjustment may cost between $20-$40. Brake pad and battery replacements can cost between $50-$150. Spark plugs can cost between $10-$30.

The overall cost of a maintenance check also depends on the current mileage. Depending on your location, maintenance can cost between $300-$500. Extensive repairs may cost a thousand dollars or more.

Suzuki motorcycles are versatile, reliable, and attractive rides for many motorcycle enthusiasts. Requiring low maintenance, Suzuki motorcycles offer peace of mind, especially on long-distance rides. However, to ensure optimal safety and performance, it is advised not to wait for signs of a breakdown or mechanical failure before scheduling a maintenance check. Follow the maintenance, adjustment, and inspection guidelines in the owner’s manual to ensure a proper maintenance check of your bike. It is worth mentioning that Suzuki provides a model-specific owner’s manual with each motorcycle purchase. If you bought a second-hand Suzuki motorcycle and the seller did not provide you with the owner’s manual, you can purchase one online or from local Suzuki dealerships for model-specific instructions and recommendations.