The Complete Dual-Sport Bike Maintenance Guide
Mile-by-mile maintenance for bikes that live in both worlds.
Jump to section
Backed by Real Service Manuals
This guide is based on research from approximately 100 service manuals across major dual-sport motorcycle manufacturers, categorized by machine type and engine configuration (single-cylinder and twin). While we recommend always checking your specific service manual for exact specifications, these schedules represent real-world best practices that work for everyday riders.
Every Ride: Quick Check Routine
Dual-sports are tougher than dirt bikes. But that doesn't mean you skip the basics.
Track Street and Trail Miles
Log your rides and know exactly what maintenance is due based on your actual use.
| Service Task | Pre-Ride Every ride | 600 Miles Break-in | 2,000 Miles Regular service | 4,000 Miles Major service | 8,000 Miles Deep service | Annual Or end of season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Check lights and signals | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check tire pressure | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect tire condition | — | — | — | — | ||
Check chain tension | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check oil level | — | — | — | |||
Check coolant level | — | — | — | — | ||
Change engine oil and filter | — | — | ||||
Check valve clearance | — | — | — | — | ||
Clean and lubricate chain | — | — | — | |||
Clean/replace air filter | — | — | — | |||
Inspect spark plug | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect brake pads | — | — | — | |||
Check brake fluid level | — | — | — | — | ||
Replace spark plug | — | — | — | — | ||
Flush and replace coolant | — | — | — | — | ||
Flush brake fluid | — | — | — | |||
Check/change fork oil | — | — | — | — | ||
Check wheel bearings | — | — | — | — | ||
Check steering head bearings | — | — | — | — | ||
Check valve clearance | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect chain and sprockets | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect/lubricate clutch cable | — | — | — | — | ||
Inspect/lubricate throttle cables | — | — | — | — | ||
Grease swingarm bearings | — | — | — | — | — | |
Check/maintain battery | — | — | — | — | — | |
Inspect fuel lines and filter | — | — | — | — |
Never Miss a Service
Set reminders for oil changes, valve checks, and seasonal service. LookOver tracks miles and time.
Engine Oil: Built for Durability
Dual-sport engines are workhorses designed for reliability. Proper oil maintenance keeps them that way.
Air Filter: The Street/Dirt Balance
Dual-sport air filters handle both paved road dust and trail dirt.
Chain and Sprockets
Street riding is easier on chains than dirt, but they still need attention.
Chain Maintenance
- Check tension: 20-30mm slack
- Clean with kerosene or chain cleaner
- Lube with quality chain lube
- O-ring safe cleaners only
Sprocket Life
- Street only: 15,000-25,000 miles
- Mixed use: 8,000-15,000 miles
- Heavy off-road: 4,000-8,000 miles
- Replace as a set when worn
Tire Pressure Guide
- Street: 28-32F, 32-36R PSI
- Mixed use: 25-28F, 28-32R PSI
- Off-road: 18-22F, 20-24R PSI
- Adjust for load and terrain
Brakes: Street Standards
Street-legal bikes need street-worthy brakes. Don't neglect them.
Off-Road Considerations
When your riding shifts toward dirt, adjust your maintenance accordingly.
Increased Intervals
- Air filter: Every ride in dust
- Chain: Clean after each ride
- Oil: Every 1,000 miles off-road
- Fasteners: Check frequently
After Water Crossings
- Check oil for water contamination
- Grease wheel bearings soon
- Dry brakes before riding hard
- Check air filter for moisture
Trail-Side Checks
- Carry basic tools
- Check bolts for looseness
- Monitor coolant level
- Watch for fluid leaks
Adjust for Your Riding Style
Create custom service schedules based on how you actually ride. More dirt? Shorter intervals.
READY TO RIDE MORE?
Download LookOver now and take control of your machine maintenance. It's free to use. No credit card required.