February in Chicago still brings cold temperatures, but for many riders, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for spring. The last thing you want is to miss out on those first warm days because your motorcycle isn’t ready to ride. Winter’s impact on your bike can lead to battery drain, thickened oil, and hidden wear and tear, so a pre-season tune-up is essential. At EPM Motorsports, we specialize in motorcycle repairs, maintenance, and tune-ups, ensuring your bike is in top shape before spring arrives.
Some riders wait until the first warm weekend to check their motorcycle, only to realize it won’t start or needs extensive repairs. By getting a tune-up in February, you avoid last-minute issues and long repair wait times.
Chicago’s weather is unpredictable, and some February days can hit the 50s. A prepared bike means you can take advantage of these rare opportunities. Many riders wait until March or April for maintenance, leading to longer turnaround times at repair shops. February tune-ups ensure priority service and faster turnaround, plus catching issues early can save you from expensive repairs down the line.
Walk out to your garage on that first promising February afternoon. Before you even think about firing up your bike, there’s critical work happening under the seat that you can’t see.
Your battery has been fighting a losing battle all winter. Cold temperatures drain batteries faster, and if you haven’t started your bike in months, it may need a charge or replacement. We test battery voltage, clean battery terminals to prevent corrosion, and handle charging or replacement. Our battery testing and maintenance services guarantee you don’t get stranded on your first ride.
Then there’s everything you can actually see. Electrical components and cables degrade over winter. We test all lights and turn signals, check throttle and clutch cables for wear or stiffness, and lubricate moving parts for smooth operation. Our full electrical and control system checks catch issues before they become major problems.
Storage leaves its mark on the surface too. Your motorcycle might be covered in dust, salt residue, and moisture buildup, which leads to corrosion and rust spots without proper treatment. Our motorcycle detailing includes deep cleaning, power rinsing, and drying with compressed air before finishing with premium detailing spray. We make sure your vehicle looks as good as it rides.
You turn the key. The engine catches. But what’s happening inside that engine block tells a different story.
Old oil has been sitting in your crankcase for months, thickening in the cold and losing its ability to lubricate properly. Even if you didn’t ride much during the off-season, oil still breaks down over time. We drain and replace engine oil with fresh, high-quality oil, check brake fluid and coolant levels, and examine fuel for contamination. Our oil changes and fluid checks prevent engine damage and keep everything running smoothly.
Fuel that seemed fine in November might not be fine now. Contamination happens. Water condenses. Varnish builds up in carburetors. These aren’t problems you spot by looking—they’re problems you discover when your bike runs rough or won’t idle properly.
Engine’s warm. Time for that first test ride around the neighborhood. This is where months of sitting reveal the real damage.
Your tires have been sitting in one spot for months, and cold weather causes tire pressure to drop. This leads to uneven wear, cracks, or flat spots. Riding with underinflated tires reduces grip and increases the risk of a blowout. We check and adjust tire pressure to manufacturer-recommended levels, inspect for cracks and wear, and replace worn-out tires before you hit the road. Our tire services maximize safety.
Then you hit the brakes for the first time and feel how they respond. After a long winter, your brakes may need adjustments or replacements. We inspect brake pads and rotors for wear, test brake responsiveness for any lag or sponginess, and flush and replace brake fluid if needed. Our brake inspections and repairs help keep your motorcycle safe on Chicago’s roads.
You roll through a few turns and notice how the bike feels. Handling tells you everything about chain tension and sprocket wear. Chains and sprockets are especially vulnerable to winter wear, developing rust or losing lubrication after sitting for months. We clean and lubricate the chain, inspect sprockets for damage, and check chain tension. We handle full chain maintenance, lubrication, and replacements for smooth performance.
That first ride feels good. But the difference between a bike that’s ready for one warm February day and a bike that’s ready for an entire Chicago riding season comes down to professional attention.
At EPM Motorsports, we specialize in service and repairs, handling everything from fluid changes to brake replacements. Our comprehensive tune-ups include a full safety inspection of all components, fast turnaround time, high-quality parts and fluids, and expert recommendations based on your bike’s condition.
While some tune-up steps can be done at home, a full inspection by professionals ensures no detail is overlooked. We catch the issues that riders miss—the brake pad that’s got one more month before it’s metal-on-metal, the chain tension that’s just off enough to cause premature sprocket wear, the electrical connection that’s corroded but still working for now.
A February tune-up ensures your bike is ready to hit the road as soon as warm weather arrives. Skipping maintenance can lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, or safety risks—don’t wait until it’s too late. At EPM Motorsports, we provide expert tune-ups, maintenance, and repair services to keep your motorcycle in peak condition. Contact us at (773) 207-3730 or email epm@epmmotorsports.com.
