Motorcycle repair guides
Know what's wrong, what it should cost, and what to ask before you hand over the keys.
Latest
- FAQsCan I bring my own parts to a motorcycle shop?Can I bring my own parts to a motorcycle shop? Learn why many shops say no, how warranty and labor work, and how to ask so you get a yes without surprises.6 min read
- FAQsCan you patch a motorcycle tire? What shops adviseCan you patch a motorcycle tire? Why many shops and tire makers say replace it, how plugs, patches and tubes differ, and what to do after a puncture.6 min read
- FAQsDoes an aftermarket exhaust void a motorcycle warranty?Does an aftermarket exhaust void a motorcycle warranty? What federal warranty law says, how dealers actually handle it, and how to protect your coverage.5 min read
- FAQsDo motorcycles need a state inspection? How it worksDo motorcycles need state inspection? Rules vary by state. See what inspections usually check, how to prepare, and where to confirm your own state's rules.5 min read
- Parts guidesDOT 4 vs DOT 5.1 brake fluid for motorcycles: what to useDOT 4 vs DOT 5.1 brake fluid on a motorcycle: boiling points, mixing rules, why DOT 5 silicone is different, and how to follow your reservoir cap and manual.6 min read
Problems & damage
All 21 problems & damage guidesDiagnosing symptoms, breakdowns and crash damage.
- Motorcycle brakes squeaking: causes and when it's unsafeMotorcycle brakes squeaking? Find out which squeaks are harmless and which mean worn pads or damaged rotors, how to fix each, and when to stop riding.6 min read
- Motorcycle engine knocking noise: causes and what to doMotorcycle engine knocking noise? Tell pinging from rod knock, piston slap, valve tick and cam chain rattle, and learn when to stop riding and repair costs.7 min read
- Motorcycle water damage: what to do after a floodMotorcycle water damage after a flood or submersion: what to do first, why you shouldn't start it, how to dry and inspect it, repair costs and insurance.7 min read
Parts guides
All 17 parts guides guidesWhat to buy, what it does, and what fits your bike.
- DOT 4 vs DOT 5.1 brake fluid for motorcycles: what to useDOT 4 vs DOT 5.1 brake fluid on a motorcycle: boiling points, mixing rules, why DOT 5 silicone is different, and how to follow your reservoir cap and manual.6 min read
- Motorcycle sprocket sizes explained: how to choose tooth countsMotorcycle sprocket sizes explained: how tooth counts change gearing, what -1/+2 swaps do, chain size matching, materials, and when sprockets need replacing.6 min read
- Foam vs paper vs cotton motorcycle air filter: which to useFoam vs paper vs cotton motorcycle air filter: how each filters, how often it needs service, what it costs and which type suits street, touring or dirt riding.6 min read
Maintenance
All 17 maintenance guidesService intervals and the jobs that keep a bike reliable.
- How to bleed motorcycle brakes: step-by-step guideHow to bleed motorcycle brakes at home: tools, fluid, numbered steps for manual, vacuum and reverse bleeding, what to do about ABS, and when to see a pro.7 min read
- How to change motorcycle coolant: a step-by-step guideHow to change motorcycle coolant yourself: tools, the right coolant, numbered drain and refill steps, bleeding air, disposal, and when to see a mechanic.6 min read
- How to change motorcycle oil: step-by-step DIY guideHow to change motorcycle oil and filter at home: tools, parts, numbered steps, torque and capacity warnings, disposal, common mistakes and when to use a pro.7 min read
Costs & pricing
All 16 costs & pricing guidesWhat repairs cost and how shops price them.
- Motorcycle battery replacement cost: parts, labor and tipsMotorcycle battery replacement cost in 2026: typical prices for lead-acid, AGM and lithium, shop labor, what raises the bill and how to get a written quote.5 min read
- Motorcycle brake pad replacement cost: what to expectMotorcycle brake pad replacement cost in 2026: typical parts and labor prices by bike type, what raises the bill, and how to get a fair written estimate.6 min read
- Motorcycle carburetor cleaning cost: prices and what to expectMotorcycle carburetor cleaning cost in 2026: typical prices by carb count, what a rebuild or sync adds, and how to get a fair written estimate before work.6 min read
Straight answers to the questions riders ask mechanics.
- Can I bring my own parts to a motorcycle shop?Can I bring my own parts to a motorcycle shop? Learn why many shops say no, how warranty and labor work, and how to ask so you get a yes without surprises.6 min read
- Can you patch a motorcycle tire? What shops adviseCan you patch a motorcycle tire? Why many shops and tire makers say replace it, how plugs, patches and tubes differ, and what to do after a puncture.6 min read
- Does an aftermarket exhaust void a motorcycle warranty?Does an aftermarket exhaust void a motorcycle warranty? What federal warranty law says, how dealers actually handle it, and how to protect your coverage.5 min read