Motorcycle Maintenance Checklist
As the weather is getting warmer, there are some important things to keep in mind before riding your motorcycle. After the winter months, it's always a good idea to check your motorcycle and make sure everything is running properly. In the event that something is wrong, it is extremely important to find out before you get on the road and get in a potentially fatal motorcycle accident. The Motorcycle Safety Federation (MSF) suggests you check the following before you ride:
• Tires — Check the air pressure, general wear and tread. You should also keep a low-pressure tire gauge, 0psi-80psi, in your bike tool bag at all times. Also, if tread depth is 1-2mm, it is probably time to replace your tires.
•Fluids — Check both oil and fluid levels. You should also check hydraulic fluids and coolants weekly. Further, look for leaks. With the battery, check the fluid levels on each chamber; if any chamber is low, top it but only use distilled or deionized water. Tap water has minerals that are not good for your battery. Also, in regard to fuel, you should check the fuel filter on a regular basis and aim to replace it every 2 years.
•Headlights and Taillight — Check both and make sure both high and low beams are working.
•Turn Signals — Turn on both right and left turn signals, checking to see that the lights are working correctly.
•Brake Light — Try both brake controls, checking that both turn on the brake light.
Once you are on the motorcycle, you should check the following:
•Clutch and Throttle — Make sure they work smoothly. The throttle should snap back when you let go. The clutch should feel tight and smooth.
•Mirrors— Clean and adjust both mirrors before starting. Make sure you can see the road behind and to the side.
•Brakes — Try the front and rear brakes, checking that each one feels firm and actually holds the motorcycle when the brake is fully applied. You should also replace your brake fluid every one or two years so your brakes perform the best because brake fluid absorbs moisture, which makes brakes less effective over time and could result in a dangerous motorcycle wreck.
•Horn — Just make sure it works.
It is also smart to check your owner's manual for anything specific to your motorcycle that may be important, and to check up on cables and fasteners.
Further, according to the MSF there are four mains causes for over half of all motorcycle-related crashes. So it is important that you keep the following in mind: most accidents occur at speeds greater than 35 mph, they happen at night, they are caused by worn tires, and they involve riders who have ridden their motorcycle for less than six months.
Although it's impossible to prevent everything that happens on the road, there are a few things you can do to lessen the likelihood of such unfortunate incidents. You should always make sure you are visible to others on the road by riding in the best lane position to be seen, not riding in peoples' blind spots, and making sure to use your headlight. Also, if you feel that a driver cannot see you, don't be afraid to use your horn. Additionally, always use proper signals if you are turning, and most importantly be very alert to your surroundings. Missouri Motorcycle Accidents often occur in a split second, but if you are aware of what is going on and are paying attention to the road, your chances at avoiding an accident are greatest. The more aware you are, the more likely you will be prepared to make critical decisions in the event of an accident, preventing harm. Preparing yourself before you ride will not only make you safe, it will also make you more confident and allow you to enjoy riding more. Have fun and be safe.
