Does a Motorcycle Need Repair After Wading Through Water?
2 Answers
It is advisable to have your motorcycle inspected after wading through water to avoid potential malfunctions caused by water ingress. If necessary maintenance is not performed promptly, it can not only affect the normal operation of the vehicle but also lead to premature damage to various components of the motorcycle. Here are some precautions for driving a motorcycle through water: 1. Inspect the wading route before proceeding: Before wading, check the depth, water flow speed, and condition of the riverbed. Avoid taking risks when driving through water. You can assess the situation by observing other vehicles passing through or by stepping into the water yourself to test the route. Then, proceed diagonally in the direction of the water flow. 2. Shift gears before wading: Before driving through water, shift to a lower gear and enter the water slowly. Maintain a steady and even speed with sufficient power (low gear) to prevent splashing water, which could cause electrical or fuel system failures and lead to engine stalling.
After a motorcycle has been through water, I personally believe that inspection and repair are necessary. Because water can enter the engine internals, causing the piston or cylinder to rust, and if you start the engine, it can lead to internal parts seizing or severe damage. I once neglected to check after riding in the rain, and the engine ended up taking in water, resulting in shockingly high repair costs. Electrical systems like spark plugs or battery terminals are also prone to short circuits and rust, affecting normal ignition. Water accumulation in the exhaust pipe can cause abnormal pressure or even reverse water intake. So, I suggest not rushing to start the bike after going through water; first, remove the spark plug to drain water, clean the air filter, and promptly visit a repair shop to use professional tools to test for moisture. If not repaired, you might still be able to ride for a short while, but long-term issues will accumulate, affecting brake or steering safety. Preventive inspections don’t cost much but can prevent major troubles.
