Motorcycle Pre-Ride Checklist
Just as your car needs regular maintenance work to keep it in good running order, so does your motorcycle. You should be checking your bike before each ride and that check should be more in-depth before you undertake a long journey. In case you’re not sure what you should be looking for, the knowledgeable motorcyclists at Indian Motorcycle Orange County have created the following checklist to guide you on your inspection. Our dealership is located in Westminster, California, and we welcome anyone in the LA area to come in with their questions and concerns. If your motorcycle needs major repairs or an oil change in advance of your trip, call our service department to schedule a maintenance appointment!
Tires
Checking your tires is a quick, simple way to ensure your safety while riding. Blowouts are especially dangerous for motorcyclists who don’t have the security of an enclosed compartment, so you’re more liable to be thrown from your bike if your tire pops. Check the tire pressure before each ride and look for uneven tread wear or a tire that’s consistently low, which could signify a slow leak. If you see any embedded objects or bald spots, bring your bike in for new tires immediately.
Engine Fluids
Your motorcycle’s fluids keep the engine running smoothly, so you should make sure they’re clean, topped up and in good condition for each ride. Check your oil, coolant, brake fluid and fuel. Your oil quality can be checked on the dipstick just as you would for a car, and should be changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Always fill your tank before you head out on a long trip. If your gas mileage drops suddenly, you might have a fuel tank leak, so watch for that.
Brakes, Clutch & Throttle
Brakes are a vital component of any vehicle, so you should ensure that your brake pads haven’t taken on any excessive wear. If they feel like they aren’t activating as quickly as you’re used to, that’s a sign that something is wrong and you should take your bike to a mechanic.
Check your throttle and clutch when you start the engine to see that they have the correct amount of give. You want your controls to be responsive without being too loose. If you’re idling often in high gears, then your throttle might not be closing all the way while you ride. The clutch should switch gears quickly and smoothly without any grinding, which is another sign that your motorcycle needs some professional attention.
Sprockets & Chains
The drive chain of your motorcycle should be lubricated sufficiently before each drive. You should secure all your chains, cables, nuts and bolts, and if you’re not sure how tight they should be, ask your mechanic when you get an oil change.
Lights
As a motorcycle rider, you’re automatically harder to see on the road, so having functioning lights is an essential safety precaution. Check your high and low beams, turn signals, brake lights and running lights before you leave so that you know they’re all working as they should.
Riding Gear
Finally, you should be fully outfitted with all the right riding gear and it should be in good condition. This includes your riding suit if you wear one, a helmet, sturdy boots, gloves and eye protection. Pack waterproof gear for rainy conditions. Make sure that you have your repair kit and your first-aid kit in your motorcycle’s storage compartments, along with your GPS and phone with charging cables.
If you’re in the market for a new or used motorcycle, come on down to our dealership to see the models we have in stock. Indian Motorcycle Orange County serves the communities of Santa Ana, Long Beach and Huntington Beach with our Westminster location. We are here for our customers in the greater Los Angeles area, including those coming from Anaheim.