Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums General Tech First Service

Hello all.

My SM is due for her first service (500 miles).

Is it mandatory/required for the dealer to do the service (as far as warranty coverage goes)?

Would it be a big mistake to do the service myself? I've got a M/C lift, tools, and some basic mechanical skills.

I don't have a problem with paying for the service...it's just a matter of logistics. Getting the SM to the dealer, rain, cold, getting the SM home, etc.

Just looking for some feedback on the first service.

Brad

Nope. Do it yourself. Just be sure to do everything outlined in your owners manual, use the proper oil, and keep good records (receipts etc.).
I get Mobile 1 4MT motorcycle oil 10w40 at Checker. Could be Krescke or Kragen where you are.

As far as I know US law (like Aust law) states that it's not mandatory, as long as you can prove it was done competantly. Having said that if you don't have a surplus of dealers in your area it can pay to be in their good books, at least for the duration of your warranty.

Dont' forget that the first service is more than an oil change - it's a chance for the dealer to check the entire bike over and make sure nothing's come loose or is wearing inordinatly.

Matt

If you do want to send it to the dealer, Canton Cycles in Wilton,CT will pick your bike up for service and deliver it within a 50 mi radius. They are scheduling pickups for December and pickup a bunch of bikes at once. I think there is a dealer closer to you in New Haven that might do the same.

Thanks for the info, Vintage...I'll check it out.

I agree with Sandman. If you can get to a dealer, do it. I am mechanically inclined, having rebuilt the engine in my 71 Daytona, back in 1983. However, I trust my dealer to inspect hoses, forks and other lefty-loosy, righty-tighty items. Now-a-days, I have no way of checking clearances or torque so I use the dealer for peace of mind and the keeping of maintenance records.

What I did was to do my own oil change and then let the dealer do the initial check/tighten and such. Ended up costing me $49 at the dealer instead of paying the extra $100-$150 for the oil change too.

Count on that dealer checking/tightening things other than the drain plug and oil filter only as long as you can watch him do it. Unless he is a personal friend of yours (the mechanic - not the salesman or counterman), he isn't likely to check too much, especially on a new machine. If he is a friend of yours, he'll be showing what and how to check the important things yourself.

Don't trust the dealer just because your giving him your $$$.

Save the $$ and do it yourself. Go to the dealer to shop for goodies.

Take a look at the service schedule in your owners book and see if you are comfortable doing all the things listed. If your local dealer is worth his salt, you should be abl to get your book stamped if you show receipts for your oil and filter, and a checklist showing that you did everything.