Hello, I am new here to the forums and also new to the world of motorcycles

I bought a new '08 Ninja 500r a few months back.

After taking the MSF basic rider course I have been riding it a lot more now and have gotten a litte over 500miles on it.

Since I know very little about motorcycles right now I have been reading just about everything I can including reading my owners manual like crazy.

My question is... It says I need to have it serviced after 500 miles, so I called the dealer where I purchased it and asked them about it, and was told all the things they do, such as oil change, something to do with the valve clearance? and a "check" and a lot of other things which sound like a bunch of BS to make me feel like im getting my moneys worth. He told me it would take around 3-4 hours and cost around $240 and that my warrenty does not cover that charge. How important is this maintenance and why are they charging so much? Am i getting ripped off here because I sure do feel like it.

My bike is collecting dust in my garage because I am afraid to ride it now untill I get it maintenanced, afraid I might do damage to the bike

Where I live there are only a very small amount of motorcycles shops andI don't know enough to even think about trying to do this myself =(

 

Welcome to KF Pharen.
Get a factory manual, it will show you exactly what needs to be done. (Valve clearance check is not one of them at 500 miles.) I prefer to maintain my own rides and would recommend that you learn how to do it yourself.

edit: Keep a log book of any and all adjustments with reciepts. You can still keep the warranty valid if you do this.