With spring rapidly approaching, many motorcyclists will be taking their bikes out of hibernation to enjoy the improving riding conditions.
But before you hit the road, make sure you give your bike a good once over. If your bike has not been started for a while then you must make a proper check on all its vital components, including:
- Before a wheel is even turned you should give the whole bike a visual inspection, taking off the seat and (if necessary) body panels.
- Check the oil level and condition and ensure there is no leakage
- Charge the battery with a high quality charger, check and (if required) clean the terminals and connectors.
Before pushing the starter button, push the bike to check the operation of the most important components:
- Check front and rear brake operation.
- Check the clutch operation and the clutch lever free play.
- Check the throttle grip operation and throttle cable free play.
- Check front and rear brake pad wear.
- Check front and rear brake lines for leakage.
- Check the tyre pressures and tread depths. Check the tyres for damages
- Check the condition and slack of the drive chain. Check chain lubrication
- Check the brake fluid levels. If necessary, top up to the specified level.
- Check the coolant level.
- Check the fuel level.
If everything is in normal condition, then you can start the engine. Let the engine warm up properly and don't rev the engine until it's warm. During the engine warm-up, check all lights, indicators, engine stop switch and sidestand switch, just as you should do before every ride.
Having satisfied yourself that all the controls are operating properly and that the bike warms up normally, with no leaks or unusual instrument readings, you can go for a short ride, but only around the block. Climb off the bike and give it one last check.
All that remains then is get out and ride. But take it easy until you're back into the swing of things. After all, there are many components that make up a motorcycle but the biggest and most valuable one is the rider sitting at the handlebars!
Note: These practical tips do not claim to be comprehensive, rather they are a general guide to good bike care. Proper maintenance and servicing always require you to visit your Yamaha dealer. They will be able to advise you on all aspects of keeping your bike running smoothly all year round.
