 How
do I check my oil? The
oil is always checked with the machine sitting level
and straight up. If it has a dip stick, wipe the stick
clean and drop it in the check hole. Do not screw it
in to check the level. The oil should cover the flattened
portion of the stick but should never exceed the upper
level mark. Always screw the stick in snugly when done.
For machines with a sight glass instead of a stick,
set the machine level and straight and look into the
window, the level should be between the two marks in
the window. |
| How often should I change my oil?We
recommend changing engine oil and filter every 2,000
to 3,000 miles. Most owners' manuals give longer intervals
but we feel that engine oil is inexpensive and engine
parts are not. Change your oil regularly. |
| Can I use car oil in my motorcycle?Yes
you can, but why would you? Understand what you have.
A modern motorcycle is a very sophisticated machine.
The oil is not only lubricating the lower and upper
bearings as well as the valve train, which is similar
to a car, but we now also have the clutch and transmission
to contend with. This takes a toll on oils. Motorcycles
typically run hotter and turn higher rpm's than cars
do. Yes, car oils do lubricate, but car oil manufacturers
do not have to factor in the special needs that motorcycle
engines require. The old saying "better safe than sorry"
does apply. We don't care if you buy Kawasaki oil for
your Suzuki, just use m/c oil. We have seen the difference!
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| What kind of gas should I use?All
of our machines are designed to run on 87 or above pump
octane. We recommend the use of 89 pump octane purchased
from a major supplier (Mobil, Shell, Texaco, etc.).
Higher octane gas is not needed and may sometimes cause
storage problems. |
| Should I turn my gas off each time I stop?It
is not necessary to turn the fuel tap off at each stop.
On units with vacuum petcocks it is not necessary to
turn off the fuel at all. All other machines should
have the fuel turned off at the end of the day's ride. |
| How often should I run my bike?You
should start and ride any machine at least once every
two weeks. The fuel in the carburetor starts to go bad
after two weeks and can clog carb jets. If you cannot
run your unit every two weeks, contact
this dealership for proper storage recommendations. |
| If I leave my kill switch on will it run my battery down?No.
The kill switch is designed to be used only for emergencies
when a quick engine shut down is needed. It should be
left in the run position at all other times. |
| Can I jump start my bike from a car?Car
batteries and charging systems have a much larger capacity
than most motorcycles. There is a very real danger of
serious damage to the electronics of your cycle if you
jump it from a car. Also, if you jump start the machine
and run it with a dead battery you will damage your
charging system. If you must jump from a car, make sure
that the car engine is not running. If your battery
is low or dead the best thing to do is properly charge
it. |
| Why do I have to buy a new battery every year?Typically
a new battery that is properly maintained will last
3-4 years. The problem is that most owners are joy riding
their motorcycle or PWC once a month or less. This lack
of activity never gives the battery a chance to catch
up. We recommend hooking up a trickle charger periodically,
or better yet, a Battery Tender(tm). A Battery Tender(TM)
is a charger that can be left hooked up and charging
while the unit is not being used, and actually maintains
the battery. |
| What is the best way to maintain my drive chain?Most
drive chains today are o-ring type chains. These are
especially important for proper care. The o-rings are
for sealing in the lubricant inside the chain, therefore
what you are trying to accomplish is simply keeping
the o-rings lubricated without attracting dirt and grit
that will harm them. Start by using a light brush to
gently remove grit and grime with a light lubricant
like Silkolene All-In One. This also is excellent for
lubricating the chain on a regular basis. Every so often,
use a light spray chain lube for a base. Non O-ring
type chains (mostly found on dirt bikes) will require
a heavy foaming chain lube, and require less care to
clean. |
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| What should I do during engine break in?The
two most important things to remember during the break
in period are to vary your engine speed and avoid over
revving the engine. Varying engine speed helps spread
the load over the bearing surfaces and decreases concentrated
wear. |
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| What is the difference between a 2-stroke and a 4-stroke engine?The
basic difference between 2 and 4-stroke engines is that
2-strokes fire the spark plug on every full revolution
of the crankshaft, 4-strokes fire the plug on every
other revolution. 2-stroke engines make more power but
require more maintenance and wear out quicker. There
are certain applications where either a 2 or 4-stroke
is more appropriate. The important thing to remember
about 2-strokes is that they all require some form of
oil and gas mix. |
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| What mixture of oil to gas should I use in my 2-stroke motorcycle?Most
tuners will say a 32-1 mixture. This does depend on
the type of oil you use, assuming that you are using
quality oil, generally a synthetic or semi-synthetic
lubricant. Keep in mind changing mixtures can vary the
jetting, so find what works and stick with it. |
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| If I install an after-market exhaust pipe will I have to rejet my carburetors?Most
exhaust pipe manufacturers offer pipes that duplicate
existing back pressure but increase noise. Most modern
bikes have constant velocity carburetors and will self
compensate for a range of conditions, so rejetting may
not be necessary. Hesitation on acceleration or a lean
plug reading would indicate a need for rejetting. |
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| How do I know what is the best tire for my motorcycle?This
is a two part answer. (1) As with most things these
days, we are flooded with colors, styles, brands, sizes
and it is easy to get confused. Ask yourself what type
of riding do I do? Basically, this falls into a category
of tour, sport tour, sport, or commute. Face it, if
you have a sportbike it will have sport tires, although
some sizes might cross over to a sport-tour category
if you are looking for a little more mileage. For the
most part, bikes will have at least 2 types of tires
available to suit your style. (2) Sizing is extremely
important, rest assured that the ideal size tire for
your motorcycle came with your motorcycle. These days
it is very rare that a different size tire will actually
advantage the performance, usually the opposite effect
will take place. |
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| How should a new helmet fit?Sizing
helmets correctly is very important. A new helmet should
fit snug to a little tight. It should not press hard
in any one particular spot. Remember, a new helmet will
have a break-in period, like a good pair of shoes, and
different brands will feel very different. First and
foremost, make sure the helmet is comfortable to you. |
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| Why is there such a price range on what seems to be the same helmet?More
expensive helmets are usually finished out better, with
a better, more comfortable fit, better shield action
and removal, and better ventilation. Be aware that some
lower priced helmets are improving all the time. Safety
ratings are usually the same. |
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| Do I need a motorcycle license to buy a motorcycle?No.
However, a proper motorcycle endorsement on your driver's
license is required to legally operate your motorcycle
on public streets and highways. |
| At what age can I get a motorcycle license? Currently,
Texas allows an individual who is fifteen or older to
operate a motorcycle or scooter under 125cc without
having to take a driving proficiency test. A written
exam is required. The endorsement for this license is
restricted to 125cc or less. However, any individual
under the age of 18 applying for a motorcycle license
(with or without any restrictions) must first complete
an approved motorcycle safety course. There are no restrictions
on size for individuals aged 16 and older and no motorcycle
safety course requirements for anyone over 18 applying
for a motorcycle license. |
| How difficult is it to get insurance on a motorcycle?Honda
Suzuki North represents several insurance companies
which specialize in motorcycle
insurance. Because each insurance company evaluates
risk differently, we are able to compare rates and come
up with a policy to cover your needs affordably. |
| How can I find out where to take a motorcycle safety course?Call
the Department of Public Safety Motorcycle Safety Bureau's
toll free number, 1-800-292-5787, for a location and
date which is convenient for you. |
| Can I get a discount on my insurance if I have taken an approved motorcycle safety course?Yes.
Every insurance company that
Honda Suzuki North represents allows a 10% discount
on your premium upon proof of course completion. |
| What are the insurance requirements for operating a motorcycle without a helmet?Honda
Suzuki North encourages all motorcyclists to wear protective
clothing and equipment at all times. However, Texas
state law currently allows motorcyclists aged 21 and
over to operate a motorcycle without a helmet if proof
of a minimum of $10,000 medical insurance for injuries
is maintained. A decal, which can be affixed to the
rear of your motorcycle, may be purchased through the
Department of Public Safety upon showing proof of sufficient
insurance coverage. However, purchase of a decal is
not required providing you carry proof of coverage at
all times. Your Honda Suzuki North insurance agent will
be glad to assist you in adding $10,000 medical payments
to any insurance policies
we write for you. |
| Do I have to make an appointment for a state inspection?No.
We can perform inspections within 15 minutes anytime
during our regular business hours. Be sure to bring
proof of insurance for your state inspection. If you
need insurance, we can
provide you a quote here. |
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| How do I get a loan for a motorcycle?Applying
for a motorcycle loan is very simple. Once you have
decided on a motorcycle you wish to purchase, your salesperson
will assist you in completing an application
that we will submit to one or more lenders that specialize
in motorcycle loans. The loan payments can be structured
from 12 to 72 months, depending on the amount of the
loan and your individual budget. |
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| What kind of credit do I need to be financed?As
with any loan, maintaining a good credit history is
the single most important factor in loan approval.
However, not all companies evaluate credit history
the same way. We know, for instance, that good customers
run into some trouble from time to time. Because Honda
Suzuki North deals with up to a dozen different lenders,
we can submit your application
to one or more lenders who understand your individual
situation. Please contact the
business office at Honda Suzuki North for more
information. |
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| Can I apply for a job at HSN? Sure, fill out our online application right now. |
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