Preparing to Ride - Check Your Motorcyle

If something's wrong with the motorcycle, you'll want to find out about it before you get in traffic. Here are the things you should check before every ride.

While walking to the motorcycle take a good look at your tires. If one looks low, check the pressure. The motorcycle will not handle properly if the air pressure is too low and could result in tire failure.

Look under the bike for signs of an oil or gas leak. If there is a puddle, determine the cause and get the leak fixed. Before mounting the motorcycle make the following checks:

Fluids - Oil and fuel levels.
Headlight and Taillight - Check them both. Test your dimmer to make sure both high and low beams are working.
Turn Signals - Turn on both right and left turn signals. Make sure all four lights flash.
Brake Light - Try both brake controls, and make sure each one turns on the brake light.
Hydraulic Fluids - Check sight windows when accessible. At a minimum, check weekly.
Coolants - Check reservoir when accessible. At a minimum, check weekly.

Once you have mounted the motorcycle the following checks should be completed before starting out:

Clutch and Throttle - Make sure they work smoothly. The throttle should snap back when you let go.
Mirrors - Clean and adjust both mirrors before starting out, because it's difficult to ride with one hand while you try to adjust a mirror. Adjust each mirror to let you see the lane behind and as much as possible of the lane next to you. When properly adjusted, a mirror may show the edge of your arm or shoulder-but it's the road behind and to the side that's most important.
Brakes - Try the front and rear brake levers one at a time. Make sure each one feels firm and holds the motorcycle when the brake is fully applied.
Horn - Try the horn. Make sure it works.

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