Motorcycle air filter

Motorcycle air filters purify the air that gets into the engine. They prevent tiny abrasive particles from getting inside the power unit thus reducing the risk of its premature wear.

Types of motorcycle air filters

By material:

• Paper. As a rule, they are relatively inexpensive. They aren’t suitable for vehicles that are often used on dusty roads. The service life varies depending on the motorcycle model. For example, for some bikes, it is 5,000 – 8,000 km, while for others – up to 24,000 km. Every 6,000 – 8,000 km it is recommended to examine the parts and replace them if necessary.
• Foam. They are capable of trapping a great amount of contaminants. Most often, bikes used in dusty areas are equipped with them. Parts of this type need cleaning and impregnating with special oil. The maintenance intervals are stated in the vehicle manual and, in most cases, they range from 2,000 to 10,000 km. As a rule, manufacturers of the bikes fitted with these components do not specify any certain replacement intervals but they recommend to check the foam for integrity every time when cleaning the filter. If it gets torn, it is necessary to install a new part immediately.
• Pleated non-woven fabric. Also known as high flow filters. They are often used when tuning the bike, as they can improve its dynamics. They are impregnated with special solutions. It is recommended to have them serviced every 4,000 – 5,000 km. On the whole, these motorcycle air filters can last up to 250,000 km.

Malfunctions: their causes and symptoms

• Clogging. It is an inevitable result of too long use of the part. This malfunction can be indicated by a reduced engine power output, especially when accelerating at mid-RPMs. Besides, when quickly turning the throttle grip with the engine idling, black smoke may come out of the exhaust pipe. Apart from that, fuel consumption may increase by up to 10%.
• Torn filtering element. As a result of that, dirt gets inside the engine, which leads to premature wear of its elements - in particular, pistons. A running engine might produce a knocking sound. One of the causes of tear are careless actions when maintaining the assembly.
• Decreased flow capacity of paper material. This usually happens as a result of getting wet when going through a deep puddle. This manifests itself in a higher air resistance which leads to a slower throttle response.

Tips on how to maintain and replace motorcycle air filters

• It is necessary to use special agents to rinse the components. Do not use petrol or any other aggressive chemicals for that purpose: they produce a negative impact on the part.
• The part shouldn’t be installed askew, and the filtering element should fit as tightly as possible.

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