How Often Should You Change Motorcycle Parts? | Motorcycle Maintenance Guide NZ

How Often Should You Change Motorcycle Parts? | Motorcycle Maintenance Guide NZ

Regular motorcycle maintenance is key to safety, performance, and long-term reliability. Whether you ride daily or just on weekends, knowing how often to replace motorcycle parts can save you money and prevent breakdowns. Here’s a guide to the most important components and when they should be changed.

1. Spark Plugs – Every 10,000 to 30,000 km

  • Standard (Copper): Replace every 10,000–15,000 km

  • Iridium/Platinum: Replace every 30,000–50,000 km

  • Signs it’s time: Poor fuel economy, misfires, hard starting

2. Engine Oil and Filter – Every 5,000 to 7,000 km

  • Replace oil every 6 months or as per manufacturer guidelines

  • High-performance or older bikes may need more frequent changes

  • Always replace the oil filter when changing oil

3. Chain and Sprockets – Every 20,000 to 30,000 km

  • Clean and lube chain every 500–1,000 km

  • Replace when the chain has tight spots or the sprockets show hooking or wear

4. Brake Pads – Every 10,000 to 20,000 km (Inspect Regularly)

  • Replace when pad material is down to 2–3 mm

  • Worn pads reduce braking efficiency and damage rotors

5. Air Filter – Every 15,000 to 25,000 km

  • In dusty or urban conditions, check more often

  • A clogged air filter reduces power and fuel efficiency

6. Battery – Every 2 to 4 Years

  • Replace if your bike has trouble starting or accessories fail

  • Maintain battery health by using a smart charger when stored

7. Coolant – Every 2 Years

  • Over time, coolant loses effectiveness and can corrode internal parts

  • Flush and replace as per service manual

8. Fork Oil – Every 20,000 to 30,000 km or 2 Years

  • Worn fork oil affects handling and ride comfort

  • Often overlooked but essential for performance

9. Tyres – Every 5 Years or 20,000 km

  • Replace earlier if tread depth is below 1.5 mm or tyres show cracks/flat spots

  • Tyre age matters even if they look fine – check the manufacture date

Final Thoughts

Motorcycles need regular maintenance to stay safe and reliable. Following a maintenance schedule ensures better performance, longer part life, and lower repair costs.

If you're unsure or need professional help, Motorcycle Doctors offers full motorcycle servicing, repairs, dyno tuning, and insurance work in Auckland. Book your service today!


Motorcycle Doctors – Auckland's Trusted Motorcycle Workshop
Call us 0800 668 663 or book online: motorcycle-doctors.co.nz