How To Keep Your Motorcycle Alive And Running For A Long Long Time ( part 3)

Miscellaneous routine maintenance
Clean your motorcycle regularly. You'll notice problems sooner if
they're not obscured by layers of grime. Pay extra attention to
the cooling fins on an air-cooled motorcycle and the radiator on
a water-cooled motorcycle. Keep all the controls and the chain
(if any) properly lubricated (see the owner's manual). Change
the brake fluid annually. Check the air filter every time you
change your oil -- more often if you've been riding a lot in
dusty areas -- and change or re-oil it when it's dirty. Follow
the guidelines in "Ron's Encyclopedia of Motorcycle Storage" for
putting your motorcycle away for the winter (unless you're one
of those lucky enough to ride year around).

Riding style
Keep the revs down. Running near redline is rough on engines.
Don't lug the engine either, though. Keep the engine speed in a
range where you can accelerate easily when you twist the throttle
twist grip, but well below the redline. Avoid short trips.
Trips of less than three or four miles result in the oil getting
contaminated more quickly. If your commute is only three miles
like mine, ride that scenic ten-mile route through the
countryside on the way to work, instead. It's more fun, and
better for your motorcycle, too!

Riding skills
Take the MSF classes. One of the best ways to ruin a good
motorcycle is to dump it on the street. Doesn't do the rider
much good, either, but don't worry about that; this list is for
keeping motorcycles going. Practice those riding skills after
the class is over to keep them sharp.