KEEP YOUR FATCAT RUNNING RIGHT
FatCats are pretty simple machines, but a little regular maintenance goes a long way.
Keeping on top of the basics will help you spot problems early, keep everything running as it should and spend more time riding instead of fixing.
BEFORE EVERY RIDE
Give your FatCat a quick once-over before heading out.
- Check your tyres are properly inflated and in good condition
- Check your engine oil and fuel levels
- Check the chain condition and tension
- Make sure the chain is properly lubricated
- Check your brakes are working correctly
- Check cables and controls are operating freely
- Look over the bike for anything loose, damaged or out of place
If something doesn’t look or feel right, sort it before you ride.
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Along with your pre-ride checks, your FatCat will need some ongoing maintenance.
The main things to keep an eye on are:
Engine oil
Check your engine oil level before each ride and top it up if necessary.
The FC-212 uses SAE 10W-30 engine oil for most climates and has an oil capacity of 600 mL. The engine also has a low-oil sensor which prevents it from starting when the oil level is too low.
Your first oil change should be completed after the first few hours of riding.
For detailed instructions on checking and changing your oil, see our Engine Oil Maintenance guide and FC-212 Owner’s Manual.
Chain
Keep the chain clean, correctly tensioned and lubricated. Riding in dirt, dust, mud and water means it may need attention more often.
Check the chain before riding and clean and lubricate it regularly as required.
Tyres
Check your tyres for damage, excessive wear or anything embedded in the tread.
The FC-212 Owner’s Manual specifies a tyre pressure of 10 psi.
Brakes
Check that both brakes are operating properly before riding and keep an eye on wear as part of your regular maintenance.
If braking performance changes or something doesn’t feel right, inspect the braking system before riding again.
Bolts and fasteners
FatCats are made to get off the beaten track, which also means plenty of vibration.
Regularly check the bike for loose fasteners and anything that has shifted, particularly after rough riding.
CVT / torque converter
Your FatCat’s CVT also needs periodic inspection and maintenance.
We have a dedicated guide covering torque converter maintenance in more detail.
LOOKING AFTER YOUR FATCAT
Dirt and mud are part of the fun, but they’re not particularly good at looking after machinery.
Clean your FatCat as required after riding, particularly around the chain and moving components. Avoid directing high-pressure water at the bike’s mechanical components.
If you notice unusual noises, excessive vibration, changes in braking or handling, fluid leaks or anything else that doesn’t seem right, investigate it before your next ride.
MAINTENANCE GUIDES
Want the proper how-to? We’ve kept the detailed stuff in our Journal so it’s easy to find when you need it.
MINI BIKE MAINTENANCE: THE ESSENTIAL FATCAT CHECKLIST →
A practical guide to keeping your FatCat in good shape, including the regular checks and maintenance worth staying on top of.
Everything you need to know about checking and maintaining your FatCat’s engine oil.
TORQUE CONVERTER MAINTENANCE →
Maintenance guidance for your FatCat’s CVT and torque converter.
OWNER’S MANUAL
Your FC-212 Owner’s Manual contains important information about operating, maintaining and looking after your FatCat.
DOWNLOAD THE FC-212 OWNER’S MANUAL →
NEED PARTS?
Things wear out. Things get broken. Sometimes you just want to change something.
We stock replacement parts, tyres, upgrades and accessories to keep your FatCat going.
NEED A HAND?
Not sure what your FatCat needs or can’t find the information you’re looking for?
Get in touch with the FatCat team and we’ll help point you in the right direction.