Regular maintenance ensures your Dirt Bike or ATV is running right as soon as you're ready to rip, but even experienced riders and mechanics can make small hardware mistakes that can cause rattles, damaged plastics, costly repairs, or even worse, lost ride time. 

Good news is most of these issues can be easily avoided and even easier to fix with the right bolt kit and a few common-sense habits. 

Here are some common slip-ups and how Specbolt's OEM-Style hardware can help solve them. 

• Forgetting to Re-Check After the First Ride 

The Mistake: 

After a new build or big service day, riders often skip the post-ride re-check. Vibration on the first moto or trail outing can settle plastics and loosen hardware.

The Fix:

• • Give the bike a quick but thorough once-over after each ride. Pay close attention to the areas of the bike most susceptible to vibration. 
  • Carrying Specbolt Track Pack in your toolbox or trail pack gives you peace of mind and makes it easy to replace anything that may have backed out or gotten loose. 

• Reusing Old or Improper Hardware. 

The Mistake:

Bolts weaken with age, exposure, and repeated tightening. Corroded or stretched hardware can fail at the worst time. 

The Fix: 

• • Inspect every fastener during maintenance. If you notice any rust, pitting or deformed threads, swap them out immediately. 
  • . Specbolt kits include OEM-Fit replacements with Nickel, Zinc, and Dacromet finishes, which allows you to choose factory style or a more "blinged-out" look. Whatever you choose, you can trust you're getting the right spec bolt for your need. 

• Mixing Non-OEM Bolts 

The Mistake:

Using random hardware, or even worse, fasteners from a standard hardware store, might seem harmless, but mismatched and ill-fitting thread pitch or head sizes can strip mounts, damage components, and look janky. 

The Fix:

• • Stick to OEM-spec bolts. Make sure the hardware you're using is specific to your year, make, and model. Don't settle for "that might work." 
  • Specbolts kits are designed to match the factory specs of brands like Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, KTM, GasGas, Husqvarna, Beta, and now Sherco and Triumph thread pitch, head style, and length. Ride confidently knowing plastics and engine parts are secured the way they're supposed to be. 

• Forgetting Nickel Bolt Prep 

The Mistake: 

Installing Nickel Wurks bolts without properly preparing them can lead to early signs of wear and corrosion. 

The Fix:

• • Before use, we recommend you apply a spray-on lubricant (WD-40 or similar) to help fight off the elements (water and minerals). Do not apply the lubricant over the Loctite on your sprocket or brake rotor bolts. It may cause them to loosen and back out.  
  • After installation, we recommend that after every wet ride or wash, you reapply the same type of lubricant to displace any standing water. Basically, the same treatment you would give your Nickel Plated 2-stroke pipe. 
  • By following these simple guidelines, your Nickel bolts will remain shiny, easier to clean, and keep that show quality for years to come. 

• Neglecting Regular Bolt Checks 

The Mistake: 

Riding off-road can loosen fasteners over time. Ignoring periodic inspections can result in loose plastics or, worse, failed engine parts. 

The Fix: 

• • Make a quick bolt check part of every pre-ride routine.
  • Keep a Specbolt Pro Pack or Track Pack in your toolbox or trail pack. If you notice a stripped or missing fastener, you can replace it immediately, ensuring your ride isn't ruined and your machine isn't damaged. 

• Why a Quality Bolt Kit Is Your Best Insurance. 

A Specbolt kit isn't just a box of bolts; it's a piece of mind. Here's why: 

• • Complete Coverage: Includes plastics, engine, frame, and subframe fasteners so you're never hunting for that one odd-sized bolt. 
  • OEM Fit & Finish: Every fastener matches your bike's factory specs.
  • Durability: Grade 10.9 hardened steel with a variety of finishes gives you ride the lasting look you like. 
  • Custom Options: Our restoration kits are built specifically for your year, make, and model, with your choice of finishes in Zink, Nickel, and Dacromet. 

Final Thoughts

Maintenance mistakes and neglect can happen, especially if you're purchasing a used motorcycle or ATV. The right hardware makes fixing and restoring them a breeze. Whether you ride motocross, trail, or enduro, Specbolt kits keep your ride tight, safe, and looking factory-fresh! 

Check out our full line of Specbolt Kits and give your machine the reliable hardware it deserves.