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Here’s The Average Motorcycle Tune-Up Cost in 2023

You just got a new motorcycle. It’s shiny, it’s fast, and it’s all yours. You can’t wait to take it for a spin around the block—or better yet, out on the open road. But there’s one thing you should do before you hit the pavement: get a tune-up.

But how much does a motorcycle tune-up cost? What exactly does a tune-up entail?

That’s exactly what we’re going to cover in this article. So without further ado, let’s get started!

What Is a Motorcycle Tune-Up?

You see, the word “tune-up” is a bit problematic. Some mechanics and riders understand it differently than others, and it does cause a lot of confusion.

For example, some mechanics and riders consider changing spark plugs, oil, and filters as a tune-up. There really is no set standard for a motorcycle tune-up, but we personally believe that a tune-up should include the following:

  1. Spark plug & coil check or replacement
  2. Air filter cleaning or replacement
  3. Oil & filter change
  4. Carb adjustment & sync
  5. Valve lash check or adjustment
  6. Clutch, throttle, and brake cable lube & adjustment
  7. Battery check or replacement
  8. Drive chain check & adjustment
  9. Brake pad & disk check

Different mechanics will include different procedures, but the list above covers the basics. Now let’s take a look at how much you can expect to pay for a motorcycle tune-up.

How Much Does an Average Motorcycle Tune-Up Cost?

The cost of a motorcycle tune-up can vary depending on a few different factors, such as your location, the make and model of your bike, and the mechanic you use.

In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a motorcycle tune-up.

The final price depends mostly on the labor involved and the parts that need to be replaced. If your motorcycle is covered in fairings, you can add 100$ to the final cost because removing and reinstalling them will probably take an hour on average.

Furthermore, if your motorcycle has an unconventional engine design, or if it’s difficult to get access to the valves and carbs – the tune-up might cost you a bit more.

Bottom line, the best way to get an accurate estimate for your motorcycle tune-up cost is to take it to a few different mechanics (or call them) and get their opinion.

Related: How Much Does a Motorcycle Oil Change Cost?

How to Save Money on a Motorcycle Tune-Up

There are a few ways you can keep the cost of a tune-up down.

First of all, try to find a good independent mechanic rather than going to a dealership. Dealerships tend to charge more for labor, and they also tend to mark up the prices of parts.

Secondly, if you’re a bit handy and you’re comfortable working on your motorcycle, you can do some of the easier procedures yourself. For example, you can easily change your own oil and filters. Valve lash is also relatively easy to do on most bikes.

Not only will it save you both time and money, but you’ll also learn more about your motorcycle. One of the best things about owning a motorcycle is that you can work on it yourself and get your hands dirty. It’s actually very relaxing.

How Often Should You Do a Tune-Up on a Motorcycle?

Most motorcycle manufacturers recommend doing a full at least every two years or every 5,000 miles.

If you’ve just bought a new bike, we highly recommend that you get a full tune-up as soon as possible. This will help ensure that everything is in good working order and that there are no hidden problems. You certainly don’t want to find out when riding!

Conclusion

Motorcycle tune-ups are important, but they can be a bit costly. The best way to keep the cost down is to find a good independent mechanic, and if you’re handy, do some of the easier procedures yourself.

Most importantly, don’t forget to keep up with the maintenance on your motorcycle. A little bit of preventative maintenance goes a long way, and it will save you money in the long run.

We hope this article has been helpful. Ride Safe!

2 thoughts on “Here’s The Average Motorcycle Tune-Up Cost in 2023”

  1. I just dropped my 2003 Suzuki TL1000 off at a local motorcycle mechanic. I did my research and he has great reviews and his prices are really good they say. I asked for a Tune-up: Plugs,K&N Air Filter, tighten the chain and grease. I asked to have the Silencer or Bafflers removed from my IXIL EXTREME SILENCERS Exhaust. I really want more sound from my bike. I know with the V intercooler motor that I’m not going to get sound from a newer bikes, but as long as I can set some alarms off , I’m good to go LoL…. I bought it used a week ago with 15,000 miles and I’ve rode to work just about every day this week. Long story short,he bought the bike in March 2021and really didn’t ride much at all. I figured it out that with the dealership paperwork and the odometer reading now after this week it’s been driven 379miles between me and the past owner. I was wondering how long do you think I can get millage wise outta that V-Twin with regular maintenance? This is my first Big Bike. My first 1000cc. I was actually thinking I couldn’t handle a 1000 over the past few months, thinking it would be just too much for me to handle, but I’ve been playing it safe and getting more comfortable with it everyday I ride. Haven’t gotten past 100 mph yet 😂. I was thinking about putting a Power Commander on for better performance and gas mileage because this bike goes through it. I try to ride year round so so you have any tips suggestions on tires that hug the road and are good in the rain because the rain scares the hell outta me on this bike. I actually took the city roads and avoided the highway to get to work, but if you have anything for me please let me know and thanks for your time.

    1. Hi Alexis!

      Suzuki makes very reliable engines and most of them, including your TL1000, can easily reach 60,000 miles if you change the oil on time, so I wouldn’t worry about reliability. The TL1000 is a great bike. As for rain, Michelin Road 5 is the go-to for most riders including me. Those tires are phenomenal.

      I would highly advise you to join your local riders course to improve your riding skills. You’ll have a lot of fun practicing with professional guidance, and you’ll be amazed at the difference practice makes. I know from experience. Also, make sure you check out MotoJitsu and Moto Control on YouTube. Practice what they teach and you’ll be better off than 80% of riders!

      That’s about it from me. I like that you’re being careful and taking it easy while you get the hang of it.

      Ride safe!

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