There’s a quiet satisfaction in caring for a classic motorcycle.
The time spent polishing chrome, adjusting cables and simply being around your machine is part of what makes owning a classic so special – it’s not just about the ride – it’s about the ritual
At Solo Classics, we believe maintenance isn’t a chore – it’s a form of love.
In our latest blog we have compiled a no-nonsense guide to help you keep your classic motorcycle ticking over like it just rolled out of the showroom.
Start with the Space
The first step? Create the right environment.
Your motorcycle deserves a clean, dry and well-lit space to live in.
And if that means being parked in the front room, then so be it!
There’s no shame in giving your pride and joy the best seat in the house.
Just remember: a happy motorcyclist is often conducive to a happy marriage.
A well organised, comfortable workspace means you’ll be far more motivated to do a bit of “fettling” – the gentle art of tweaking, tuning and tidying.
And let’s face it, fettling is half the fun!
Get Your Tools in Order
You don’t need a Formula 1-grade workshop but you do need a solid tool chest with the basics: spanners, sockets, screwdrivers and so on – all neatly compartmentalised.
The golden rule? Put your tools back where they came from!
There’s nothing more infuriating than spending an hour wandering in circles, patting your pockets and muttering to yourself, “where the [insert colourful language of your choice] did I leave that lump hammer?”
Keep It Running – Always
It’s no good having a lineup of gorgeous bikes if none of them will run.
At Solo Classics, our motto is simple: keep them “on the button.”
That means they start easily, run sweetly and are always ready for a ride – even if it’s only around the block.
The biggest culprit when it comes to classic motorcycle woes? Modern fuel.
Today’s petrol – especially E5 and E10 – is a menace to older machines.
It attracts moisture, eats through seals, gums up carburettors and can turn a beautifully running engine into a spluttering mess.
So if you take just one thing from this blog, let it be this:
Never leave fuel in the tank, fuel lines or carbs for more than a couple of weeks.
Drain it. Run it dry. Store it smart.
You’ll thank yourself every time the bike fires up without a hitch.
Check Before You Ride
Before every ride – or even just on a quiet Sunday afternoon – do a quick pre-ride inspection. It doesn’t take long and it makes a world of difference:
- Oil: Check the level and condition. Keep it fresh
- Water/Coolant (bike-dependant): Make sure it’s topped up and clean
- Tyre pressures: Under inflated tyres affect handling and safety
- Brakes: Don’t just look – give them a squeeze and feel for responsiveness
- Chain: Clean it, lube it and check the tension
- Cleanliness: Not just for show – a clean bike helps you spot issues before they become problems
It’s amazing how these small checks can make your motorcycle feel like a million dollars.
Even a quick clean and polish can make it feel like new – and it’s a brilliant way to stay connected with your machine.
In a Nutshell
Looking after a classic motorcycle isn’t about being obsessive – it’s about consistency.
Stay on top of the basics, treat fuel with the caution it deserves and keep your workspace inviting and efficient. More often than not, the rest takes care of itself.
So whether you’re wrenching in the kitchen or tweaking cables in a tiny back shed, know this: you’re part of a proud tradition – one where passion, patience and a bit of elbow grease go a very long way.
And whatever you do …don’t leave fuel in the bike!