Giving your bike a quick check before riding is key to maximizing your safety on the road. Learn how to conduct a motorcycle pre-ride inspection in this post by Mike Ford Shop in Ham Lake.

When it comes to riding your bike, one thing is for sure: if you take good care of it, it will take good care of you on the road. Hence the importance of setting a motorcycle pre-ride inspection routine. Taking a look at your bike before each ride is crucial to ensure it will function properly. Plus, a pre-ride check can help detect and fix issues that, if overlooked, could result in an accident. With such benefits in mind, this post by Mike Ford Shop will provide a step-by-step guide on conducting a pre-ride check. If you want to ensure safer and more enjoyable rides, read on!

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How To Perform A Motorcycle Pre-Ride Inspection

Tires

Step one is to inspect the tires. These elements' PSI should match the pressure recommended in the owner's manual. So, to check this, use a pressure gauge to measure the inflation pressure in both tires. Next, check the tread for any cuts, cracks, or punctures. Look for any signs of bulging or separation. If you find any issues with your tires, it's best to have them repaired or replaced before going for a ride.

Fluids

Meeting your bike's hydraulic and oiling needs is vital in preventing breakdowns. With that in mind, check each fluid level before each trip. Doing so is quick and straightforward in motorcycles with viewports. If that's the case for your equipment, you'll notice each reservoir has a glass or clear plastic tube to observe the fluid level. Otherwise, perform a dipstick reading on all fluids at least once per month. Either way, you should always keep an eye on your equipment's oil, brake fluid, coolant, transmission oil, and fuel. That way, you'll know your bike is in safe and optimal running conditions.

Lights

The next step is ensuring all your motorcycle's lights are functioning correctly. All it takes is turning the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights on and off to see if they illuminate. If needed, ask a family member or friend to supervise the reaction of each light while you activate them. If one of the lights dims or flickers, have your bike inspected by a certified tech.

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Chain Drive

Is your bike's drive system a chain drive? If so, include this step in your pre-ride check routine. To inspect the chain, start by testing its tension, as a loose chain can come off the sprockets, resulting in a loss of control and a potential accident. To avoid that risk, use a ruler to measure the chain slack midway between the sprockets. The spacing should match the millimeters specified in the owner's manual. To complete this check, make sure the chains are lubricated. If dry, apply a quality chain lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.

Brakes

A quick brake check is always vital to ensure a safe riding experience. To perform this step, look at the brake pads to ensure they aren't worn down to the metal. Then, look for cracks, bends, or rust on the brake rotors. If all looks well, test the brakes by applying gentle pressure to each brake lever. If they feel spongy, have them inspected by a repair technician, as there may be air in the brake lines.

Final Checks

The last step of the motorcycle pre-ride inspection is to ensure that the mirrors are correctly adjusted and not damaged or loose. Start the engine and pay attention to unusual sounds or vibrations. Check the gauges and warning lights to make sure everything is functioning correctly. If all is working as expected, enjoy a safe and fun ride!

If you're looking for the top synthetic oil in Ham Lake, call Mike Ford Shop at (763) 257-3130 anytime! Their oil experts will be happy to help you find the best formula for your engine. To explore the complete line of AMSOIL products, visit the online store.