Winter seems to be dragging on and mother nature is getting a kick out of watching us motorcycle riders sit and stare out the window waiting for the first glimpse of spring. Well to get your mind off the bad weather how about getting your motorcycle ready for the new riding season? For some of us our bikes have been sitting in storage or under snow for quite awhile. Now follow these easy steps to get back on the road.
1. Check your tires. As your motorcycle has been sitting the air pressure in your tires is most likely way off from normal pressures. It wouldn’t hurt to give the tires a once over to make sure no nails, dry rot, and wear are all within normal.
2. Control Check – Check your throttle to ensure it has free movement and returns back to idle easily. Brake and clutch levers work and don’t stick at any point. Finally ensure the rear brake pedal and shifter are working. If you notice any biding or sticking with any of your controls refer to your owners manual for the proper lubrication you should use to help remove the restriction in movement.
3. Check the Spark – Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion if you notice corrosion use some baking soda and water to clean the terminals and be careful not to get it on your clothes it will burn wholes in Levi’s, shirts, etc. Finally check, charge if needed, and install the battery.
4. Spring Cleaning – A good cleaning is in store for your pride and joy. Ensure you wash off all the dirt and grime collected over winter. Dry then apply an after wash product if desired. Polish and wax all chrome, painted parts, and give the seat some love as well with a protective coating.
5. Lubrication Time (Makes me laugh just typing it) and other fluids – Ok, get the chain lube out and oil your chain(refer to your owners manual for proper procedure). Next, inspect your bike for any corrosion that may have happened over the winter. If you find rust try to clean it with soap and water and if that doesn’t suffice head to your local motorcycle shop or hardware store and find some rust remover. Always remember when using rust removers to test it on a non-visible part first to make sure it doesn’t damage the paint or finish of the metal. Finally, check radiator fluid, brake fluid, and head light fluid (just kidding on that one) to ensure everything is within serviceable levels.
6. Final inspection – If you carry a tire repair kit make sure it is in working order, accessory cables(GPS, Radio, Intercom, etc), luggage locks and attach points. Finally, do a round around your motorcycle and ensure all the nuts and bolts are tight according to specification.
7. Get you Gear in Order – Before your first ride also make sure you riding gear is all in working order and no visible problems or issues with your helmet, boots, jacket, or pants.
Now go get busy and this will get your mind off the last few days of winter.
