Triumph Thunderbird Commander, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 52 / 136

52
General Information
Breaking-In
Breaking-in is the name given to the process
that occurs during the first hours of a new
vehicle's operation.
In particular, internal friction in the engine will
be higher when components are new. Later
on, when continued operation of the engine
has ensured that the components have
'bedded in', this internal friction will be
greatly reduced.
A period of careful breaking-in will ensure
lower exhaust emissions, and will optimize
performance, fuel economy and longevity of
the engine and other motorcycle
components.
During the first 500 miles (800 kms):
• Do not use full throttle;
• Avoid high engine speeds at all
times;
• Avoid riding at one constant engine
speed, whether fast or slow, for a
long period of time;
• Avoid aggressive starts, stops, and
rapid accelerations, except in an
emergency;
• Do not ride at speeds greater than
3/4 of maximum speed.
From 500 to 1000 miles (800 to 1500 kms):
• Engine speed can gradually be
increased to the rev limit for short
periods.
Both during and after breaking-in has been
completed:
• Do not over-rev the engine when
cold;
• Do not lug the engine. Always
downshift before the engine begins
to 'struggle';
• Do not ride with engine speeds
unnecessarily high. Shifting up a
gear helps reduce fuel consumption,
reduces noise and helps to protect
the environment.