Cleaning; Long Inactivity - APRILIA MX 50 - 07-2002 Manual

MX50-UK02.fm Page 39 Tuesday, July 30, 2002 2:50 PM

CLEANING

We advise cleaning the vehicle frequently, not only
for the sake of its appearance, but also because
cleanliness helps to keep your vehicle in good condi-
tion and prolongs the life of its various parts.
Before cleaning the vehicle, plug the exit of the ex-
haust pipe and ensure that the spark plug and the
carburettor are properly in place.
Before cleaning, degrease the most exposed parts
(engine) with suitable additives.
Then clean the vehicle with soapy water, using only
natural water pressure to rinse it.
Do not use polishing pastes on matt
paints.
Do not use alcohol, petrol or solvents to
clean the rubber and plastic parts and the
saddle: use only water and mild-soap.
Excessive pressure risks causing water
infiltrations in the wheel bearings, front
fork, brakes and linings, causing serious
da-mage.
Then lubricate the chain and clean the air filter.
Do not apply protection waxes onto the saddle, in
order not to make it too slippery.

LONG INACTIVITY

If the vehicle has to remain inactive for several
months, we advise:
Clean and protect the painted parts with polish;
◆
◆ Disconnect the battery terminals;
◆ Check the state of battery charge every one and a
half months. If it has to be recharged, use a trickle
charge to avoid damaging the battery;
◆ Remove all the fuel from the tank and empty the
carburettor float chamber;
Remove the spark plug and pour a teaspoon (5-
◆
3
10 cm ) of two-stroke engine oil into the cylinder.
Then replace the spark plug and operate on the
kick-starter a few times without inserting the key
so as to spread the oil over the walls of the cylin-
ders;
◆ Check the tyre pressure from time to time;
◆ Lubricate the chain.
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