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Copyright © 2000 by M. Hilton Taylor. All Rights Reserved by T.A.M.S. It ain’t rocket science . . . is it. |
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Pre-ride is very much like the first of the month . . . this is when you do your checks. Check to be sure the bike is ready for the ride: This is where a little inspection can make the ride more comfortable and safer. Check the engine oil and transmission oil Oil is a definite necessity for your engine and transmission. Your manual that came with the motorcycle should show you how to check the oil. If you own a metric bike usually the transmission and engine use the same oil, so when you check the engine oil you are also checking the transmission oil. Check the tires for the correct air pressures, tread depth, and damage Tires that are under inflated not only hurt your fuel mileage but also it reduces the life of the tires, and a blowout can hurt more than your ego. Be sure to do the penny check and if you can still the top of Lincolns head it is time for new tires. Refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended air pressure. Check both front and rear brakes. If they do not feel right then check the brake fluid in both reservoirs. Usually the front brake reservoir is located on the right side of the handle bars. The rear brake is usually near the rear tire or near the rear brake pedal. Check all of the cables for proper adjustment. They should not be loose at the ends and you can check them by pulling on them and see if they are secure without a lot of play. Check the fuel level to be sure the needle is near the F, just in case you are going on one of those group rides. It keeps the group from wondering why a “dork” would show up to ride without gas. If you do not have a fuel gauge you can open the fuel cap and look in the tank to see the fuel level. Check the mirrors to be sure you can see both sides behind you. You can also use the mirrors to adjust your “doo rag” to insure you look as cool as possible and also check to be sure the rider is dressed appropriately for the ride. Be sure your luggage and anything attached to the luggage rack is secure. Nothing worse than seeing your clean underwear scattered down the highway because you did not check. Do not overload your motorcycle with luggage . . . they do have a weight limit. Pack accordingly and you may have to buy those cookies near the hotel at night to lighten the load. You also do not want to pack so the bike is top heavy and affects the handling. Before you leave on the road, ride the motorcycle a short distance or around the neighborhood to find out if the bike will handle in a stable manner. Try doing some circles to get the feel for how it turns. Your neighbors will also get the idea you are leaving for a trip. If it does not feel right then adjust the weight to make it comfortable. If you end up riding in the rain you will need to stop and check the security of your baggage as the water will allow some straps to relax or stretch. Taking a minute to check will give you a rest stop and also give you the peace of mind your luggage will continue to travel with you.
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