Page 26 - June Edition.cdr

“Most of the habits that damage engines are
entirely avoidable.”
is operational and consider
switching to a high-performance
coolant.
13. DIY Mods Without Tuning
Installing aftermarket exhausts,
intakes, or performance mods
without proper ECU remapping can
disrupt the air-fuel mixture, causing
your engine to run lean (too much
air, not enough fuel). Running lean
increases heat and can burn valves
or melt pistons over time.
P r o T i p : A n y s i g n i fi c a n t
modification to intake or exhaust
should be followed by proper
tuning—either via a power
commander, ECU flash, or dyno-
tuning by a professional.
Bonus Tips to Keep Your Engine
Healthy
Avoiding bad habits is just one part
of the equation. A few proactive
practices can significantly enhance
your engine's longevity:
● Warm Up Before Thrashing
Allowing the engine to come up to
temperature before hard riding
ensures all parts are lubricated and
expanding evenly.
● Use Quality Parts
Whether it's gaskets, filters, or
LHR MOTORCYCLE MAGAZINE
fluids—don't skimp. Cheap parts
fail faster and can lead to bigger
issues.
● Regular Compression Checks
Periodic compression tests can
reveal early signs of valve or piston
ring wear—well before symptoms
show up during riding.
● Keep the Engine Clean
A clean engine runs cooler and
allows you to spot leaks or issues
early.
Final Thoughts
Your motorcycle engine is a finely
tuned machine that demands
respect. While most engines are
built to be durable, they're not
indestructible. Consistent abuse,
neglect, or ignorance of proper
m a i n t e n a n c e w i l l c a t c h
up—sometimes with catastrophic
results.
The good news? Most of the habits
that damage engines are entirely
avoidable. By being mindful,
sticking to a maintenance
s c h e d u l e , a n d r i d i n g w i t h
mechanical sympathy, you can
easily extend your engine's
lifespan, performance, and
reliability.
So, ditch the bad habits and show
your engine the care it deserves. ROASTED
After all, a happy engine makes for
a h a p p y r i d e r — a n d f e w e r ARTISAN
breakdowns between the curves.
LHR
ROASTERS
082 671 8511
071 518 2846
26 JUNE 2025