9. Inspect The Chain.
Throwing your chain while out ripping through the trails or on the MX track can cause you hours of wasted time and can even crack your engine cases, which could lead to extreme costly repairs. Be sure to properly tighten the chain's tension before you ride. Check your manual for the manufacturer's tension procedure and specifications. Keep in mind that your chain will stretch after the initial ride, so be prepared to make adjustments. And if you care anything about your $60 chain, coat that thing thoroughly with chain lube before hitting the dirt.
10. Oil The Air Filter.
Air filters are the nostrils of your engine. Sucking in water, dirt and other harmful debris will certainly wreak havoc on your motor, which will lead to costly rebuilds. The factory filters come bone dry and will not properly filter out all dirt and debris. To keep dust out of the motor, liberally grease the portion of the filter that comes in contact with the airbox and add a good coat of filter oil to catch the fine debris from passing through. You'll not only prolong the life of your engine, but by feeding it clean air will allow it to run like a champ.
11. Proper Jetting Is A Must.
If your new machine is carbureted, it'd probably benefit greatly from proper jetting to accommodate your specific region. It's difficult for the manufacturers to jet a particular machine to operate to its full potential when the quads are being shipped to such drastically differing climates that the United States offers. For example, a new machine that's jetted for the hot, dry climate of Southern California will find difficulties when facing a frigid Minnesota winter. Be sure to check your manual for proper jetting procedures.
12. Maintain The Swingarm Bolt.
Swingarm pivot bolts are notorious for working their way loose and surprising unsuspecting riders. So before you hit the trail, be sure to tighten them up. Refer to the owner's manual once again for specific torque specifications. I've witnessed these bolts backing out in the past. Not only can they block chain-driven machines, but I've even had one crack an engine case due to unbridled stress. Over time, you'll need to repack the pivot bolt bearings with grease to keep them from rusting and creating a whole new slew of problems.
13. Check The Axle Nut.
Just as swingarm pivot bolts are notorious for working their way loose, the axle nut is even more likely to be loose. Make sure that the axle nut is good and tight. For a little added insurance, wrap it up really tightly with electrical tape. This is one of those deals that should be inspected before every ride.
14. Protect New Plastics.
Keeping the "new" look on your sparkling pride and joy only takes a little prep, but it's easy and worth your time and money. Replacing plastics can be expensive, so now is the ideal time to install a cool graphic kit before they take a beating. Also, if you can find clear pieces of 12-mil vinyl to cover high-rub areas (even on your frame), that will definitely extend the life of your plastic and keep things looking nice for an extended amount of time. Clear vinyl can be purchased at most sign shops or can be ordered from many decal/graphics companies.
15. Pay Attention To Underside Protection.
Almost all ATVs offer some sort of protection for the underside, but that protection is usually minimal and made of plastic. Before you hit the trail, we recommend purchasing aftermarket belly, swingarm and A-arm skid plates. It's important to do this before you ride, or you're likely to get gashes on your frame, crack your swingarm or even tear a CV boot. Don't wait till damage occurs and cover it up; you'll be happy that you've taken the proper steps to protect that investment.
16. Inspect And Tighten Everything.
New machines travel great distances to get to your local dealer. Things come loose and can even be forgotten by the assembly teams at the dealer. Check all important bolts, such as the shock mounting bolts and the suspension bolts. Be sure to look at your quad's protection components like the heel guards and the swingarm guards. What it boils down to is it's your responsibility to inspect and make sure that everything is tight and functional.