Regular checks and maintenance can ensure that your Harley performs at peak performance even after several years. Here are some often-neglected maintenance concerns and tips. Make sure to keep you Harley user manual handy when doing these tips:

1. Always check your tires' conditions: Tires have thread wear markers that let you know if these are at the end of their usable lifespan. It is dangerous to use tires when their threads have worn down to these markers. At this point, tires lose their effectiveness against punctures and wet roads. Change your tires once these markers become visible.

2. Don't forget your valve stems: A lot of Harley owners forget checking the valve stems of their motorcycles. Look for signs of cracking, and wear and tear. Also, make sure your valve stems are always covered with caps. Use the same design caps to ensure balanced wheels.

3. Check that battery cables are clamped tight into your Harley's engine: Cables are bound to get loose in time because of constant engine vibration. It is up to you to make sure that these are always clamped securely.

4. Change your brake rotors once these have become rough or chipped: Brake rotors are supposed to be smooth and clean. Rough and chipped rotors are signs of over use and should be replaced.

5. Listen to your spokes: Constantly check that your spokes have the right tension. Loosened spokes are safety hazards. They make a different sound from the rest when you run a screwdriver over them. If you find a loose spoke, have your mechanic double check and fix.

6. Oil up: Oil does not only work as a lubricant. Oil also cools your engines. Thus, it is very important that you are oiled up. Overheating wears down your Harley's engines.

7. Constantly check your lights: Lights can burn out after several uses. Make sure your head light, brake light, tail light and blinkers are always in tip top shape, especially if you plan to motor at night. Have a friend check these out for you as you tinker with the controls. If alone, stand your bike in front of a wall at night and check out if all's in good working condition.

8. Brake pads should always be thick enough: The standard thickness of brake pads is 1/16". Anything thinner than this should be replaced.

9. Check for properly inflated tires: Under-inflated tires can cause faster tire wear and heat buildup. However, deflation is natural for tires. You will need to constantly inflate to the right tire pressure.