FatCats are simple machines, which is part of why they're so much fun to own.
But simple doesn't mean maintenance-free.
A few regular checks can prevent a loose chain, low oil, worn belt or soft tyre from turning a good riding day into a shed day. This is the practical FatCat maintenance checklist we'd keep handy. Your owner's manual remains the primary reference for service procedures and specifications. The FatCat Maintenance page has the quick version and our FAQs cover the common questions.
Before every ride: the five-minute check
Before you fire it up, check the basics:
- Tyre pressure and obvious tyre damage
- Engine oil level
- Fuel level and leaks
- Chain lubrication and tension
- Front and rear brake operation
- Steering movement, cables and brake lines
- Loose, missing or damaged fasteners
It doesn't need to become a ceremony. The point is catching something small before it becomes something bigger.
Engine oil
Check the engine oil level before riding.
FatCat's maintenance information recommends an early oil change after the initial running-in period. The detailed oil guide currently recommends 10W-30 for most climates and lists an oil capacity of approximately 600ml.
Oil-change timing depends on use and conditions, so follow the current owner's manual and FatCat guidance rather than treating one calendar interval as universal.
If the bike won't start, remember that the FC-212 has a low-oil sensor that can prevent starting when the oil level is insufficient or the bike is leaning significantly.
Chain: clean, lubricate and tension
Your drive chain needs regular attention.
The coating on a new chain is for corrosion protection, not a substitute for riding lubricant. Clean the chain as required, lubricate it and check tension before riding.
A chain that's far too loose can derail or accelerate wear. A chain that's too tight can also create unnecessary load and wear.
Use the adjustment procedure in the owner's manual rather than guessing at tension. Replacing a chain? Our chain comparison covers the options.
Tyres and pressure
Check tyre pressure before each ride and inspect the tread and sidewalls for damage, punctures or anything embedded in the tyre.
FatCat's current guidance lists 10psi as a minimum and notes that pressure can be adjusted for rider weight and terrain up to around 15psi.
Don't go excessively low. A tyre can unseat or develop slow leaks if pressure is too low.
If your terrain has changed, tyre choice may matter as much as pressure. See our FatCat Mini Bike Tyre Guide for the standard, A-003, A-051 and Steer options.
Brakes
Test both brakes before riding and inspect the system periodically for wear, damage or leaks.
Pay attention to brake-pad condition, brake-line routing and the security of caliper hardware. If braking feel changes, don't keep riding and hope it sorts itself out.
If you're not confident diagnosing or servicing the hydraulic brake system, use a suitably experienced mechanic.
CVT and belt
The CVT is what gives the FatCat its automatic twist-and-go transmission, and it needs to stay clean and correctly maintained.
Dust, mud and sand can increase maintenance demands. Inspect the belt for wear such as fraying, cracking or narrowing and keep the CVT components clean according to the owner's manual.
Use only the recommended dry-lubrication approach on the components that require it. Greasy or oily products can attract grit where you don't want it. Our torque converter maintenance guide has more on the drive and driven pulleys.
If the bike develops erratic acceleration, jerky engagement or an obvious belt problem, stop and inspect the system rather than simply fitting another belt without addressing the cause.
Air filter and spark plug
An engine needs clean air and reliable ignition.
Inspect and service the air filter more frequently if you ride in dusty conditions. Check the spark plug periodically and replace it if worn or damaged.
The current FatCat FAQ identifies the FC-212 spark plug as an NGK BPR6ES. Check our spare parts range for current parts before ordering replacements.
Fasteners, cables and bearings
Off-road riding means vibration, bumps and dirt. Periodically inspect bolts, mounting hardware, controls, cables, steering and wheel movement.
Look for anything loose, damaged, rubbing or routed incorrectly.
FatCat uses many standard-size bearings and fasteners, but don't substitute components blindly. Confirm the correct part or specification first.
After muddy, dusty or sandy rides
The harsher the conditions, the more attention the bike deserves afterwards.
Remove built-up dirt and mud before it hardens around moving components. Avoid blasting bearings and seals with aggressive high-pressure washing.
Dry the bike, inspect the chain and drivetrain and pay particular attention to the CVT if you've been riding in dusty or sandy conditions.
If the bike is going into storage
Store the bike somewhere dry and protected from weather.
Clean it first, deal with any maintenance you've been putting off and follow the owner's manual for fuel and storage preparation. Don't leave a known problem waiting for Future You. Future You will not appreciate it.
When should you use a mechanic?
Plenty of routine jobs are manageable at home if you're mechanically comfortable.
But there's no prize for guessing.
If you're unsure about brakes, engine issues, damaged components, alignment or a repair that affects safe operation, use a suitably experienced small-engine or motorcycle mechanic.
Prefer to watch it done?
Here's our FatCat maintenance video if you'd rather watch than read.
The simple FatCat maintenance rhythm
Before riding: tyres, oil, fuel, chain, brakes and a quick visual check.
Regularly: clean, lubricate, inspect the CVT/belt, air filter, spark plug, fasteners and wear items.
After harsh riding: clean and inspect more thoroughly.
At service intervals: follow the current owner's manual and FatCat support information.
That's it. A little shed time now usually means more riding time later.