How long do motorcycles last? - Life Expectancy of a Motorcycle

by Gino Borlado

Motorcycles are a great source of entertainment and enjoyment. As one of the safest modes of transport, they are incredibly convenient. They are also one of the most popular recreational vehicles due to their versatility and style. Many men spend their entire retirement savings on a motorcycle.

The motorcycle industry has a reputation for producing inexpensive machines built to last. However, this doesn't mean that motorcycles are equally durable. One factor that influences the life expectancy of a bike is the quality of its parts, and how long it will last is determined by its age, mileage, maintenance, and repair history. This means that you need to focus on these factors if you want to prolong the life of your motorcycle. 

How many Miles Can a Motorcycle Last?

Assuming you have a motorcycle from a reputable manufacturer, it can travel between 50,000 to 100,000 miles before it shows its age and needs replacing. Some older bikes can surpass this number if you invest in them. 

If you are looking to buy a motorcycle based on reliability, consider the following data. 

In 2015, the largest Consumer Reports survey was conducted involving 12,300 motorcycles. Japanese brands were the most reliable in this survey, specifically Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda, and Kawasaki. This is followed by US brands such as Victory and Harley Davidson. Take a look at this table:

Manufacturer	Per cent of Failures
Yamaha	11%
Suzuki	12%
Honda	12%
Kawasaki	15%
Victory	17%
Harley-Davidson	26%
Triumph	29%
Ducati	33%
BMW	40%
Can-Am	42%

 

Interestingly, these results show that the most reliable brands are not necessarily the biggest brands, and having a big brand isn't a guarantee of reliability. 

How weather and terrain affect longevity

Weather conditions and terrain affect the longevity of your motorcycle. If you live in areas that experience heavy snow or ice or in hot and dry regions, be prepared for the possibility of frequent mechanical issues. Also, if you use your motorcycle for off-road riding, you will face even more obstacles that could lead to problems. 

For example, plastic, leather, and paint can be damaged due to extreme heat or high temperatures. The parts are brittle because of the cold temperatures. Salt in the air can cause rust on metal parts if you live in an area near the sea.

How many years does a motorcycle last?

On average, a motorcycle can last for 10 to 15 years. This is a rough estimate, as it depends on how you use it, where you ride it, how you maintain it, and many other factors. 

In the case of the motorcycle, durability starts with the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. These are the most critical elements of the bike. The rest of the components are made up of all of these parts. Therefore, they should be adequately cared for to ensure the best performance and extended life.

The frame should be checked for alignment and cracks. All joints and moving parts need lubrication to prevent sticking or seizing. There are many other things to look for when inspecting your motorcycle to ensure it is safe and ready for action.

If you observe proper maintenance, you can rest assured that you'll be riding safely and having fun for a long time. 

How can you make your motorcycle last longer?

Besides the motorcycle itself, the rider or owner has a huge role to play in ensuring the long life of the bike. 

How do you keep your motorcycle running for a long time? What kind of maintenance does your motorcycle require? You might be surprised by how much care your bike needs. The owner is responsible for the bike's condition, including its tires, brakes, clutch, and oil filter. It is important to remember that any damage, no matter how small, can cause a motorcycle to fail wholly and quickly. When you take a close look at your motorcycle's maintenance needs, you'll realize that there are many things you can do to prevent breakdowns, keep your bike safe, and make sure it lasts as long as possible.

The owner has to understand what they're doing if they want to keep the motorcycle functioning. 

Change Oil

This varies from motorcycle to motorcycle, but you'll typically know when it's time to change the oil from the manufacturer. Changing the oil is a relatively simple process that involves removing the oil cap, draining the old oil, replacing it with new oil, and re-installing the cap.

To ensure that you have enough oil for the engine, you should follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. However, you should contact your motorcycle dealer if you don't know where to change the oil. They can help you schedule the service and also tell you what to do after the service is done.

Proper Storage

Make sure that you store your motorcycle in a dry, cool area. Most dealers suggest an area of your home away from the weather, but you can also keep it in the garage. Your motorcycle should be stored away from direct sunlight and humidity to avoid corrosion, rusting, or other damage that will shorten the bike's life.

Replace the Brakes and Tires

Your motorcycle's tires and brake pads degrade over time and eventually fail. As such, they will need replacement. This will prevent unnecessary damage to your bike and help you enjoy it longer. 

An excellent way to check whether your brake pads are worn out is to look at the rotors. If you notice any visible wear or it's making a metal scraping sound when you engage the brakes, your brake pads may be worn out and need replacement.  If you are not familiar with replacing these parts, you should hire a mechanic for this job. 

Take Care When Riding

Motorcycles are extremely dangerous if not handled correctly. To avoid accidents and keep yourself safe while riding, remember the following rules:

Do not drink and drive. Driving while intoxicated will only increase your chances of being involved in an accident.

Keep your eyes open and always pay attention to your surroundings. Motorcycles are more maneuverable than cars, so take advantage of this and concentrate on the road ahead.

Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is especially important if you're on a long ride because you could cause an accident that could endanger you and others around you.

Make sure that you wear a helmet while riding.

Waxing

Part of maintaining your bike is keeping it clean and shiny. Waxing creates a thin coat that protects your bike's paint and chrome from rust, dust, and scratches, so it's essential to get it done regularly. 

Monitor Tire Pressure

A properly inflated tire can help you save gas, reduce the applied pressure on your bike's suspension, and make the difference between a hard and comfortable ride. It is best to track how much air is left in your tires and make it a part of your maintenance routine. You can do this by using a calibrated tire gauge and checking the pressure month or two. You can even do it before a ride. 

Conclusion

A motorcycle is a serious investment. Take care of it, and it will last you for years. 

With just simple things checked and done regularly, you will prolong your bike's life and be a happier rider because you feel like you got your money's worth out of your machine. 

Don't rely on brands for reliability (unless, of course, you're buying a Japanese brand). Much of what prolongs the life of a motorcycle, no matter the brand, is the owner's commitment to keeping it in top shape. 

In many ways, your bike's value is inversely proportional to its condition. If you don't take good care of it, it will depreciate and worsen way before its time. 

Thanks for reading, and ride safe.