Motorcycle shops in Canberra, Australia

Before you book in Canberra, Australia

A few things riders around here ask before handing over a bike. None of it is specific to one shop above.

What to ask a workshop

• Do you work on my make and year? A workshop that mostly sees late-model Japanese bikes may not want a 1978 twin, and it is better to hear that on the phone than at the counter.
• Will you fit tyres I bring in, and what does that cost? Many workshops will, some will not, and the ones that do usually charge more per tyre than for rubber they sold you.
• What is the diagnostic fee, and does it come off the repair if I go ahead? Ask before the bike is on the lift.
• Appointment or walk-in, and what is the turnaround right now? In season a good workshop can be two or three weeks out.
• Can you collect a bike that will not run, or do I need to arrange a tow? Some workshops have a trailer; most do not.
• Can you do the safety inspection my state needs for registration or a sale, and are you licensed to issue it? Ask before you book, because not every workshop is.

What to ask a tow operator before they load it

• Do you carry motorcycle straps or a wheel chock, and how will you secure the bike? Soft loops through the yokes (the triple clamp) or the frame, never around the bars or a fairing.
• Flatbed or wheel-lift? A motorcycle needs a flatbed, or a purpose-built cradle. A wheel-lift built for cars is the wrong tool.
• Will you take a bike that will not roll, for example with a seized rear wheel or a bent fork?
• What area do you cover, and is the price per kilometre or a fixed call-out fee? Ask for the number before you give the address.

Seasonal note

Sun and heat are the maintenance story here. Check tyre pressure cold before every ride (hot bitumen adds a lot), watch coolant and oil levels through summer, and expect rubber to age in the sun faster than the tread wears. Early starts beat the afternoon heat, on the bike and at the workshop.

Helmet and inspection rules

Each state and territory adopts the road rules in its own law, and the details can differ across a border. Check the current rules before you ride Canberra, Australia out into another state. Australian road rules, and where each state publishes its own.