I thought with reopening going on around the country (and the world), this was a good one to share with our community.

Seth H. from Pomona asked “I haven’t ridden my bike in months, can you tell me what I should check on my bike before taking your class?”

Motorcycles don’t like to be ignored, they get lonely and seem go to pieces after only a short time. So if you haven’t ridden your bike in a while, probably a good idea to give it a quick once over before you take it through its paces, whether in training or on the road. Today’s motorcycles can have hundreds of moving or critical parts that can influence reliability and safety.

Here is a good list of things to check:

• Check for loose anything – Brake caliper bolts, spokes, body panels, battery cables, axle nut, shock bolts, license plate, handle bars, windshield – basically anything you came put a tool on, do it.
• Look for signs of leaks – like a ring of dust gathering around a drain plug or seal, puddle under the bike? How are the fork seals?
• Check fluid levels – front and rear brake reservoir, clutch reservoir, oil level, and coolant level if you have a liquid cooled bike. Have a shaft drive? Check that too. If it has gas in it, how old is it? Does it smell funny?
• Tires – Inspect them for cracks and uneven wear, if you have a rubber valve stem look for cracking, check the tire pressure.
• Are the battery terminals tight and free of corrosion? Does it have a charge? Does the bike start?
• Check all lights for functionality, cracks or dings or cloudiness.
• Check your tool kit for completeness.  When was the last time you checked the registration under the seat? Do you even have current registration and insurance?  Where is your spare key? When was the last time you read the owner’s manual? Have you ever?
• Before you take off down the road, squeeze the brake lever and make sure the brakes work!

Ok, so all checked out… is that it?

Well – no.

• Do you know where your gear is? How old is it?
• Carefully check for spiders, I learned this is a good idea the hard way.
• What is the date on the inside of your helmet?  Five years is the normal life expectancy of a helmet. Does your helmet have a washable liner? Can you see through the face shield?
• If you have textile gear, check stitching, zippers, Velcro, buckles, etc. and when was the last time it was cleaned?
• Where are your gloves stored? Air them out.
• Same with your boots!  How are the buckles? Laces? – If you have BMW off-road boots or adventure boots, did you know that BMW sells repair parts?
• Check armor for cracks or other wear.
• Have a Bluetooth that should be charged?

I know this list is long, but it still may not be all-inclusive. If you have any questions about anything on this list, contact me and I will help you if I can.  If you don’t feel comfortable doing any of this yourself, you could get a friend to help or contact your local dealer.

Feel free to comment if I missed anything!

— Michael