The mistake many people make when riding a motorcycle for the first time: don't do it this way

When you have the excitement of buying a new motorcycle and, finally, you manage to do it, what's the next thing you need to do?

You need to be patient and  take care of it as it deserves, now more than ever since you just took it out of the dealership with zero kilometers (0 km).

This isn't just anything, but something you should keep very much in mind during the first few thousand miles (first few thousand kilometers) of its life with you.

The importance of break-in: brands take action

Just consider how important the first few miles (first few kilometers) of life are for an engine that certain brands limit their performance through electronics.

So, if you wanted to ride faster than recommended in certain models during their debut, it would be impossible for you.

Yes, because the motorcycle gives you what it considers appropriate, nothing more. It's the way to guarantee an adjustment that the brand itself considers suitable.

In addition, thanks to this, they ensure that the treatment received on your part has been correct; in other words, that you haven't overdone it and harmed the mechanics.

Basic break-in rules

Keep in mind that what we're looking for is for each and every engine part to achieve the most perfect fit possible.

Today, materials and their finish inspire more confidence than years ago, although nothing exempts you from the fact that any tiny imperfection could ruin everything.

But this would be an unforeseen event that, attention, won't always appear during the official warranty period in effect...

What is in your hands, and from day one, is the proper care of the mechanics during its first break-in period.

The proper condition of the components is like value in the military, "it's assumed," so all that's left is for you to do your part well.

1. Make sure of the initial operating range and its recommended intervals

Which intervals? If your trusted dealer hasn't told you, you'll find it in the user manual of your new motorcycle.

But be careful, because although there are some brands that give it to you in PDF format to save some money, you must consult it.

The excuse "I didn't download it" serves no purpose other than to make you look ridiculous. It's the first thing you need to do: read it as soon as you get home.

Therefore, measure the range carefully in relation to the mileage indicated in the user manual and forget about the urge to push anything, for now.

2. Avoid excessive heat

Yes, saying this now is asking for the impossible, but you need to understand that it's important for the engine to operate "under the right conditions."

This means it should run at medium revs and be properly cooled. Excesses aren't good for anything, and even less so here.

Of course, "pushing" when cold doesn't do anything positive either. You must be gentle at all times with the throttle, clutch, gearbox, and brakes.

3. Don't ride at constant speeds and use the gearbox

Riding always at the same revs and in the same gear is also counterproductive.

For the engine to work and perform all its operations, it's best to increase and decrease the rotational speed.

Do this while making rational use of the gearbox, shifting up and down without compromising the engine's reliability... because we're looking for a perfect assembly.

4. Brakes that don't brake? They're new!

This will happen to you when you change discs and pads a few thousand miles (a few thousand kilometers) later. Now, with the new motorcycle, you also need to pay attention to this.

The brief test done at the factory after your motorcycle's complete assembly served to check if the brakes work, not to break them in.

To achieve this one hundred percent, don't overuse the right lever and pedal: make brief touches for a progressive break-in avoiding unnecessary overheating.

Enjoy many miles (many kilometers) with your new motorcycle, properly broken in and ready for action!