Buying a new motorcycle is always a dream come true. But few riders make the decision to immediately push the limits with their new bike. In particular concerning the number of revolutions, they still hold back in the initial time. They do not want to load the engine so much yet, in order to prevent possible damages. It is also spoken of the so-called running in.
On the other hand, there are motorcyclists who don't want to wait and instead want to find out immediately what their new vehicle is capable of doing. They do not break in their new motorcycles and, when asked, refer to the statement of many manufacturers that new engines do not even need this anymore. As a result, many bikers are unsettled and do not know so well, Whether they have to break in a new motorcycle or whether they can do without it.
The running in of new engines has tradition
A first answer is provided by the motorcycle manufacturers. Almost every manufacturer has a document or even a manual on how to break in the motorcycle at the time of delivery. As a rule, concrete information is given regarding the recommended speed up to a certain mileage. Such a recommendation could be, for example, that the speed during the first 1.000 kilometers the value of 4.000 revolutions per minute should not exceed.
These recommendations are not new, on the contrary: In earlier times there was a need to run in engines. Whether car, motorcycle or commercial vehicle, running-in should ensure safe and, above all, long-term operation of the engine. The said necessity was due to the manufacturing processes of the time.
Several decades ago, manufacturing tolerances were far greater than they are today. This had in part considerable effects on the engine. The accuracy of fit of the components was simply not that high, so that initially increased friction could occur on individual parts – until the affected components had worn themselves in.
If friction occurs on such a large scale, the engine may heat up more than it is designed to during operation. At the same time, friction causes abrasion, d.H. Small metal particles settle in the engine oil. This made it all the more important to perform the first oil change comparatively early on.
Running in motorcycles – the situation today
Over the decades, the production processes have been significantly improved. Today's engine parts have the highest degree of precision. As a result, the fit is much better, an unintentionally high friction usually no longer occurs. Accordingly, it is no longer such a bad thing if an engine is not broken in.
Nevertheless, as long as manufacturers recommend running in, buyers should adhere to it. Otherwise you risk an unnecessarily high wear of the engine. Especially as it is by no means only about the engine. When riding a motorcycle, other components are also subjected to stress, such as e.G. The seat.B. The brake system. Brake discs and brake pads are new, so they may be. Still have to "grind in" something. Anyone who accelerates immensely with their new motorcycle right from the first start and then brakes intensively is taking a risk. The brake could work very unevenly. Thus favor a fall.
Finally, it should be noted that running-in should not be confused with warm-up. Regardless of the previous mileage, every combustion engine should first be warmed up. Who renounces this and drives immediately with very high revolutions, favors an uneven heat distribution. The area around the combustion chambers will heat up particularly quickly, while other areas of the engine will heat up if necessary. Are still relatively cool. This can cause stress on a wide variety of parts, putting unnecessary strain on the unit. If necessary, warranty claims will no longer apply. If you want to be well protected against damage, it is best to find out about suitable motorcycle insurance at an early stage.