Reminder for All Motorcycle Owners with Flooded Bikes

If your motorbike got submerged in water, don’t panic. Follow these steps to prevent further damage and get your bike back in working condition.

Immediate Actions:

1. Do Not Start the Engine: Attempting to start the engine can cause severe internal damage. Water inside the engine can lead to hydro-lock, which can damage the pistons, rods, and other engine components.

Steps to Follow:

1. Change the Oil: Drain the existing oil from the engine and replace it with new oil. Water can mix with the engine oil, reducing its lubricating properties and causing rust and corrosion inside the engine. By changing the oil, you ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and protected.
2. Change the Gear Oil: Similar to engine oil, gear oil can become contaminated with water. Draining and replacing it ensures that the gears are properly lubricated and protected from rust and corrosion.
3. Replace the Spark Plug: Water can damage the spark plug, preventing the engine from starting properly. Installing a new spark plug ensures that the engine receives the necessary spark to ignite the fuel.
4. Remove and Drain the Exhaust Pipe: Water can collect in the exhaust pipe, causing blockages and preventing proper exhaust flow. Remove the exhaust pipe, drain any water, and then reattach it to ensure that the exhaust system functions correctly.
5. Remove the Air Filter: Water can saturate the air filter, preventing proper airflow to the engine. Remove the air filter and do not reinstall it until it is completely dry. Running the engine without a filter is not recommended, so it’s best to replace it with a new one if necessary.
6. Take the Bike to a Shop: For a thorough inspection and cleaning, take your bike to a professional service center. The mechanics can perform a final checkup, clean the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and ensure that all components are in good working condition. This step is crucial to prevent the bearings and oil seals from getting stuck and damaged.

For Fuel Injected (FI) Motorbikes:

• Never attempt to start the engine if it has been submerged in water. FI systems are more sensitive to water damage, and attempting to start the engine can cause irreversible damage to the fuel injection system.

Additional Steps for FI Motorbikes:

1. Drain the Motor Oil and Fuel Tank: Remove all the oil and gasoline to prevent rust and corrosion inside the engine and fuel system.
2. Dry the Engine and Fuel Tank: Use a high absorbent rag or an air compressor to blow out any remaining water from the engine and fuel tank. This ensures that all moisture is removed, preventing rust and corrosion.Refill with New Oil: Add new oil to the engine to ensure that it is properly lubricated. This step helps to protect the internal components from rust and corrosion.
3. Visit the Nearest Service Center: Without attempting to start the bike, take it to the nearest service center or dealer. Professional mechanics can use an air compressor to dry out the internal electronics and other sensitive components. This step is crucial to avoid potential short circuits and other electrical issues.

By following these guidelines, you can prevent severe damage to your motorbike and ensure that it runs smoothly again. Taking immediate action and seeking professional help are essential to maintaining the longevity and performance of your bike.