Major or minor service: what is the difference?
In a minor service we change the oil and oil filter and do a safety check of brakes, tyres, chain and lights. A major service adds what your manufacturer's schedule calls for, such as spark plugs, air filter, brake fluid and the valves. A winter package is not a major service.
By Freddy · 20 October 2026
What happens in a minor service?
A minor service covers the basics: changing the engine oil and oil filter and a safety check.
- Change the engine oil and oil filter.
- Brakes: check pads, discs and brake fluid.
- Tyres: tread, pressure, age and damage.
- Chain and sprockets: wear, tension and lubrication.
- Lights, battery and controls.
- Look for leaks.
What happens in a major service?
A major service includes everything in the minor service, plus the parts your manufacturer's schedule only calls for after a certain number of kilometres or years.
- Replace spark plugs according to the schedule.
- Check or replace the air filter.
- Replace the brake fluid and bleed the brakes.
- Check or replace coolant on liquid-cooled motorcycles.
- Check the valves and adjust if needed, when the schedule calls for it.
- Synchronise throttle bodies or carburettors when needed.
Which service does your motorcycle need?
Your manufacturer's schedule decides, together with your mileage and the date of the last service. It differs per make and model, so there is no general rule. Read also how many km between services.
What does a service cost?
A major service takes more time and more parts than a minor one. How the price is built up is explained in what a major or minor service costs.
More about how we work: motorcycle servicing in Waalwijk.
Need help?
We work by appointment. Message us on WhatsApp to book. Include your registration number, make, model and mileage. Our workshop is in Waalwijk; labour costs €75 per hour, incl. VAT.