How to Deal with Motorcycle Shock Absorber Oil Leakage?
2 Answers
When discovering oil leakage from the motorcycle shock absorber, you can visually inspect the external condition of the shock absorber to identify the leakage point. The following are the causes of shock absorber oil leakage: 1. If the leakage occurs at the lower end of the shock absorber: it indicates that the oil drain screw is not tightened, or the sealing gasket is damaged, or the welding at the bottom of the cylinder shell is poor. 2. If the sealing gasket is damaged: the screw and the compression nut on the buffer column should be unscrewed. After draining the shock absorber oil, remove the damaged sealing gasket and install a new one. The following are the hazards of prolonged shock absorber oil leakage: 1. Shock absorber oil seeping onto the brake disc: leading to poor or failed braking performance. 2. Lack of lubrication from the brake oil: the shock absorber will gradually become stiff, and over time, it may seize up and turn into a steel pipe.
I've been riding motorcycles for many years and have encountered shock absorber oil leaks several times. It's usually due to aging seals or cracked oil rings, especially after long-term use or frequent rides on rough roads. If you notice oil leakage, don't ignore it—failing shock absorbers can cause skidding during turns and unstable braking, which is extremely dangerous. Last time I had a minor leak, I first wiped the area clean with a cloth and checked if the bolts were loose. If it still leaked, I didn't delay and went straight to the repair shop. The mechanic will inspect the leak location, replace the seals, or the entire shock absorber if the rod is bent. The cost isn't high, usually a few hundred yuan, but safety comes first! For maintenance, I recommend checking the shock absorbers regularly, inspecting oil levels every few months, and avoiding potholes while riding to prevent issues. The key takeaway is that oil leaks only worsen if ignored, so address them promptly.
