Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers to the questions riders ask most about servicing, repairs, engine rebuilds, tyres, suspension, track prep and Guardian Assist GPS tracking.
Servicing
How often should I service my motorcycle?+
Most manufacturers recommend a minor service every 5,000–6,000 km or every 6 months, whichever comes first, with a major service typically every 12,000–24,000 km. I'll always check your owner's manual and tailor recommendations to how you actually ride.
Do you stamp the service book?+
Yes — every logbook service I perform is recorded and stamped, helping protect your motorcycle's warranty and future resale value.
Do you service all makes and models?+
Yes. I service Japanese, European and American motorcycles — road, adventure, dirt, sport and cruiser bikes are all welcome.
How long does a service take?+
A minor service is usually completed same-day. Major services typically take a full day. I'll always give you a realistic time estimate when you book.
Are after hours appointments available?+
Yes. After hours and weekend drop-offs and pickups are available by arrangement — just let me know what suits you.
Do you offer pre-purchase inspections?+
Yes — I provide pre-purchase safety inspections so you can buy your next motorcycle with confidence.
Repairs & Crash Damage
Do you provide quotes before starting work?+
Yes — every repair is quoted up front. If I find anything additional during the work, I stop and call you before continuing.
How long do repairs typically take?+
Simple repairs are usually same-day. Larger jobs depend on parts availability — I'll give you a realistic timeframe at the quote stage.
Do you work on all motorcycle brands?+
Yes — Japanese, European, American, road, dirt, adventure and sport bikes are all welcome.
Can you source aftermarket or OEM parts?+
Both. I'll discuss the trade-offs and let you choose what suits your budget and how you ride.
Do you handle insurance work?+
I focus on non-insurance crash repairs and direct customer work. Get in touch and I can discuss your situation.
Diagnostics & Electrical
How much does a motorcycle diagnostic check cost?+
Diagnostic time is billed by the hour. Most faults are identified within the first hour. I'll give you a clear estimate up front.
Can you read fault codes for my bike?+
I have diagnostic tools that cover most modern Japanese and European motorcycles. If your platform requires specialist equipment I'll let you know up front.
My battery keeps going flat — what's wrong?+
Could be the battery itself, the charging system, a parasitic drain or a wiring fault. A proper diagnosis will identify the actual cause rather than guessing.
Can you rebuild damaged wiring looms?+
Yes — I repair damaged sections of loom using correct gauge wire, soldered joints and heat-shrink for a clean, durable repair.
Do you fix intermittent faults?+
Yes — intermittent faults are my specialty. They take patience and a methodical approach, both of which I bring to every job.
Engine Rebuilds
How much does a motorcycle engine rebuild cost?+
It depends entirely on the engine, what's worn and what level of rebuild is required. I strip and inspect first, then provide a detailed quote before any work commences.
How long does a top-end rebuild take?+
Typically 1–2 weeks once parts are on hand. Bottom-ends and complete rebuilds usually take longer — I'll give you a realistic timeline at the quote stage.
Do you use OEM or aftermarket parts?+
Both — I'll discuss the trade-offs for your specific engine and use case. For high-performance and race builds I often recommend specific aftermarket components.
Can you rebuild older / classic motorcycle engines?+
Yes — older Japanese, British and European engines are welcome. Parts sourcing can sometimes take longer but I'll let you know up front.
Do you offer break-in / running-in advice?+
Yes — I'll provide clear running-in instructions to suit your specific engine and rebuild.
Suspension
How often should fork oil be changed?+
Most manufacturers recommend every 20,000–30,000 km, or every 2–3 years. Aggressive riders, track riders and dirt riders should service more often.
My forks are leaking — can you fix them?+
Yes — fork seal replacement is one of the most common jobs I do. While I'm in there I'll inspect bushes, refresh the fork oil and check for stanchion damage.
Can you set my suspension up for my weight?+
Absolutely — proper setup starts with sag measurement and spring rate assessment for your weight, riding style and bike. I then dial in compression and rebound from there.
Do you do track day suspension setup?+
Yes — full track preparation including setup, spring changes and clicker adjustment for your specific circuit.
Can you service shocks as well as forks?+
Yes for most cartridge-style shocks. For specialist units I work with trusted partners to get them rebuilt to spec.
Tyre Fitting
Can I bring my own tyres to be fitted?+
Yes — bring your own or have them shipped to me. I'll fit, balance and inspect everything as usual.
How long does a tyre fit take?+
Most front-and-rear fits are completed in 1–2 hours by appointment.
Can you fit track tyres and discuss pressures?+
Yes — happy to chat through pressures, warmer settings and choices for your bike and circuit.
Do you fit adventure tyres?+
Yes — tube-type and tubeless adventure tyres in all common sizes.
Can a punctured tyre be repaired?+
Generally I recommend replacement for motorcycle tyres rather than plugging. I'll inspect and give you an honest, safety-first recommendation.
Track Bike Preparation
Can you prep my road bike for a track day?+
Yes — I'll work through the relevant track day checklist, safety wire the bike and run through pre-track inspections so you arrive ready.
Do you safety wire for club racing?+
Yes — safety wiring to club racing standards, done cleanly with stainless wire.
Can you help with suspension setup at the track?+
I set up suspension in the workshop based on your weight, bike and the circuit you're heading to. Track-side setup adjustments are typically the rider's responsibility once you know what each click does.
What if I crash at the track — can you repair the bike?+
Yes — bring it in for an inspection. I can quote and repair most non-insurance crash damage, source replacement fairings and controls, and get you ready for the next round.
Do you fit and balance track tyres?+
Yes — track compound tyres fitted and balanced, with advice on warmers and pressures.
Guardian Assist GPS Tracking
Will the tracker drain my battery?+
Guardian Assist trackers are designed for low standby draw on a motorcycle electrical system. I install with proper fusing and switching to protect your battery.
Where is the tracker installed?+
Discreetly inside the motorcycle, away from obvious tamper points. The exact location depends on your bike — I plan installation for each model individually.
Will installation void my warranty?+
Professional installation is done in a way that doesn't damage your wiring loom and uses proper connectors. I'm happy to chat through your specific situation before booking.
How much does installation cost?+
Installation cost depends on your motorcycle and the model of Guardian Assist unit you've chosen. Get in touch with your bike's make/model for a quote.
Do you supply the Guardian Assist unit or just install?+
Get in touch with details and I'll let you know your options — whether you've already got a unit or want me to organise everything.
Let's talk.
Call, email or visit the workshop — I'm happy to answer anything about your bike.
