Back

How often should you service a Harley?

Jan. 4 2023 Miscellaneous By Redline Harley-Davidson

Share

How often should you service a Harley?


If you have recently bought a sportster or Softail Harley-Davidson motorcycle, you are probably wondering how often you should service it. Following a Harley-Davidson maintenance schedule will keep your bike performing optimally.


In addition, regular service will save you money by ensuring that you catch any problems as soon as they appear. Fortunately, every Harley-Davidson motorcycle has a maintenance schedule highlighted in the owner’s manual to help you keep it at peak performance.


Here are some recommendations from Redline Harley-Davidson service center technicians on when to schedule service.


Harley-Davidson Service Checklist: 1,000 Miles


Scheduled Harley-Davidson motorcycle maintenance starts when your bike odometer reaches 1,000 miles. A qualified Harley-Davidson technician will inspect your motorcycle carefully and ensure every part is working effectively. They will also take it for a test ride at top speeds and carry other services including oil change and checking air suspension pressure and fluid levels. Some important areas they will check are:


  • Engine oil, fork oil and oil filter

  • Brake pads and discs for any wear

  • Oil lines and brake systems for leaks

  • Tire pressure and tread

  • Wheel spokes tightness and for all critical fasteners including axle nuts, brake system, front fork components, handlebars, and riser

  • Brake fluid condition and levels

  • Spark plugs, shock absorbers, and steering head bearings

  • Exhaust system for cracks, leaks, and loose fasteners or heat shields.

  • Rear-drive belt, sprockets and adjust accordingly

  • Electrical equipment and switches

  • Battery connections

  • Engine idle speed

  • Clutch adjustment


Harley-Davidson Service Checklist: 2,500 Miles


Your next Harley-Davidson maintenance schedule is 2,500 miles. During this maintenance interval, technicians will focus on parts that wear out after a few more miles. Maintenance scheduled at this service interval will be:


  • Inspection of brake pads and discs for wear

  • Inspection of transmission lubricant

  • Inspecting tire pressure and tread

  • Inspecting fuel lines and brake system for leaks

  • Inspecting throttle operation and enriching controls

  • Check the operation of electrical equipment and switches

  • Inspecting air cleaner, air filter and service as necessary

  • Inspecting and lubricating throttle control cables, clutch control, hand lever, jiffy stand, and brake hand lever


Road test


Harley-Davidson motorcycle's 5,000-mile service combines 1,000 miles and 2,500 miles services. In addition, you should also schedule for service once again at 7,500 miles. However, the service checklist is like the one received at 2,500 miles.


Harley-Davidson Service Checklist: 10,000 Miles


At the 10,000-mile service interval, Redline Harley-Davidson service center will recommend the following services.


  • Inspect brake calliper pins

  • Replace spark plugs

  • Inspect the front brake lever pin

  • Change transmission lubricant

  • Inspect stabilizer links and engine mounts

  • Adjust and lubricate steering head bearings

  • Check ignition timing and vacuum hose


Maintenance Tips and Tricks


Even if you always adhere to the scheduled proper maintenance, it is advisable to regularly check your motorcycle to ensure it's in prime condition. These DIY tips will help spot any issue in between maintenance intervals.


  • Check for damaged fork seals and leaking fluid

  • Inspect battery terminals for corrosion

  • Check blown fuses and have some spares ready

  • Inspect moving parts for any signs of wear

  • Clean and coat battery terminals with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion

 

For your Sportster Harley-Davidson motorcycle mile service or spare part, contact Redline Harley-Davidson, an authorized Saskatoon dealership and keep your limited warranty in effect.