After some expensive and less than satisfactory services from BMW and other bike shops I have begun doing my own services. Thanks to this forum for much appreciated guidance.
But how could I quickly see what the next service involved?
And when I come to sell the bike (to upgrade) how could I prove to a prospective purchaser that all the regular services had been done - by me? Below is my answer.
How do others address this problem - or don't they. I'm prepared to admit to being fairly anal.
60% of the art of conversation is knowing when to say nothing
Now, I just don't bother. The bike will be turning 7 years old this year. Since I plan on keeping the bike for many more years, by the time I think about selling it, it will be so depreciated that I figure that maintenance records won't make a difference.
I was dreaming when I wrote this, forgive me if it goes astray...
iowabeakster wrote:I did keep track of my services... for a while.
Now, I just don't bother. The bike will be turning 7 years old this year. Since I plan on keeping the bike for many more years, by the time I think about selling it, it will be so depreciated that I figure that maintenance records won't make a difference.
+1 When it gets over 100,000 Km, the bike is so depreciated that service records (or lack thereof) will make only a negligible difference.
I only keep records for my own sake. I have so many bikes I need a memory check!
I keep a small pocket sized book to write down everything I do to my bike and when with mileage. I also use it for keeping track of mileage and trip notes when out riding. It's really for my own benefit, but when I sell a bike the buyer likes to see the detailed records and the amount of service the bike had received, etc... I keep one for each bike in a zip lock bag with the anonymous book, registration card insurance, etc... in the tank-bag.
I service the bike every 3K miles so, changes fluids and tune every 15K. I don't really get hung up on factory intervals, I know what works for me and I have been sticking with it.
jcridge wrote:I keep a small pocket sized book to write down everything I do to my bike and when with mileage.
That's what I do, currently using an inexpensive school composition book from the drugstore. It's for my own use when servicing the bike or replacing renewables. I've shown them to buyers to indicate the care the bike has received.
I keep track of maintenance on my bike (and cars) with an Excel spreadsheet. After seeing your format I will be adding some new columns for additional info!
