Spring is finally here, so it’s time to dust off your motorcycle and prepare for another season of cruising on the open road. But before you hit the pavement, it’s crucial to ensure your bike is in tip-top shape to avoid any unexpected breakdowns or safety hazards.
With a few simple preparation tips, you can get your bike ready for the upcoming motorcycle season, so you can ride with confidence and stay safe on the road.
If your motorcycle has been in storage for an extended period, checking your oil and gas levels before you start riding again is crucial. Take the following steps to check your oil and gas and get ready to ride:
- Check Your Oil
When a motorcycle is in storage and unused, the oil settles at the bottom of the tank. Before starting your bike, check your oil levels and look for signs of water or other contaminants in the oil which can damage your engine, and perform an oil change if necessary.
Newer models may have a digital sensor that tells you if the oil is low, but if you have an older bike, you will need to remove the dipstick and check the oil level manually. If it’s low, add your preferred oil until the sensor or dipstick indicates it is full.
- Check Your Gas
If your motorcycle has been in storage for an extended period, the gasoline may have deteriorated, leading to difficulties when starting the engine. Before starting your bike, inspect the gas tank for any signs of rust, debris, or water, as they may indicate contamination. If the fuel appears dirty or has an unpleasant odor, empty the tank and replace it with fresh gasoline.
- Inspect Fuel Lines
While checking your gas tank, inspect the fuel lines for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Over time, fuel lines can degrade and become brittle, which can cause leaks. If you notice any damage, replace the fuel lines before starting your motorcycle.
A well-functioning brake system is essential for your safety on the road. Check your brake pads, fluid levels, and hoses for wear and tear, and ensure they are in good working condition. Worn brake pads and fluid levels that are too low can make it difficult to stop your motorcycle, resulting in an accident.
Your motorcycle’s air filter is essential in keeping your engine running smoothly. A dirty or clogged air filter can decrease your motorcycle’s performance and fuel efficiency and even cause damage to the engine. To clean or replace an air filter on a motorcycle, locate the air filter housing. Remove the housing and clean the filter with compressed air or replace it with a new one, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you haven’t ridden your motorcycle all winter, your battery may have lost its charge. Before starting your bike, connect your battery to a charger and allow it to charge fully. This ensures your battery has enough power to start your engine and keep it running smoothly.
Before charging your battery, check it for any signs of damage, such as cracks or corrosion. If your battery is damaged, it may need to be replaced. If your battery is relatively new and in good condition, you can proceed with charging it.
To charge your battery, you’ll need to disconnect it from your motorcycle. Turn off your motorcycle and remove the negative cable from the battery first, then remove the positive cable. This prevents any accidental sparks or electrical surges.
Connect the charger to your battery. Once the charger is connected, plug it into an electrical outlet, turn it on, and allow it to charge until fully powered.
Your motorcycle’s tires are the only point of contact between your bike and the road, so you must ensure they are in good condition. Check your tires for signs of wear, damage, or punctures. Look for any cracks, bulges, or other deformities that indicate you need to replace them.
Check the tire pressure to help prevent a blowout or flat tire when you take your bike out for the first time. Motorcycle tires should generally be inflated to between 28 and 40 PSI; check your owner’s manual and inflate your tires to the recommended level.
A clean motorcycle not only looks great, but it can also help keep your bike running smoothly. Dirt and debris can get stuck in the chain, which can cause wear and tear over time. Before hitting the road for the first time this season, wash your motorcycle thoroughly, making sure to clean the chain using a chain cleaner and lubricant.
Prepare Your Ride to Prevent an Accident
Preparing your motorcycle before hitting the road this spring is essential for a safe and enjoyable riding season. If you’re unsure about performing any of these checks or need help getting your motorcycle ready for the road, consider consulting a professional mechanic who can help you prepare your bike for motorcycle season.
If you’re ever involved in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, seek legal representation from a motorcycle accident lawyer at Catalano Law.
We can help you understand your legal rights after a collision and get the financial compensation you deserve. For more than two decades, riders have trusted Catalano Law to be by their side every step of the way; contact us to schedule a free consultation.