CHECK IT OUT!

Take

1 - DAMAGE

Check for damage when cleaning your bike, such as loose wires and bolts and cracked light lenses.

4 - RUBBER

Check the pressures when the tyres are cold because the pressure will read higher when they’re hot. See that the tread depth of both tyres is greater than 1.0mm, as this is the minimum for motorcycle tyres in the UK. Clear out any small stones from within the tread and ensure there’s nothing penetrating the tyre.

2 - PETROL

It’s important to have enough fuel. Also, if you decide to lay your bike up for a long time, either brim your tank with fuel or drain it completely, or risk engine damage.

3 - ELECTRICS

Check your bike’s lights before each ride, including indicators front and back. Remember to check that both the rear and front brake pedal/lever operates the brake lights and give the horn a quick toot.

5 - DRIVE CHAIN

Check the tension of the chain; it should have around an inch of slack. Clean and lubricate the chain regularly.

7 - COOLANT

If the coolant level is low don’t use tap water! Always top-up with a mix of distilled water and anti-freeze (50% of each). Anti-freeze not only keeps the coolant from freezing in the winter, but also helps to stop your bike from overheating in the summer.

- OIL

Check the oil level by using the dipstick or ‘spyglass’ in the side of the engine. Get the bike on its centre-stand or get someone to sit on the bike to keep it vertical. Never overfill your oil tank!

8 - BRAKES

Wheel the bike along and feel for resistance or pulsing at the lever, indicating binding calipers or warped discs. Check the brakes bite when you squeeze the lever and that the pads have plenty of wear left. Make sure the level of the fluid in the brake reservoir is within the marked area.