It’s really no fun sitting on the side of the road waiting for help when you should be cruising down the road in the beautiful Florida sunshine. That’s why before you ever leave your driveway you should perform a full inspection of your bike. It only takes a few minutes and it can save you hours of headache later on.
What To Check During Your Motorcycle’s Inspection
Fluids
Check the date and mileage of the bike’s last oil change and start a trip with fresh oil and filter rather than risking having to do this service on the road. For bikes with a radiator, the coolant level should be checked and topped off, if necessary.
Tires
It’s highly advisable to not start a long trip with tires nearing the end of their tread life. If the planned trip is many thousand miles long, tires may have to be changed while on the road, but starting with worn tires may necessitate two new sets of tires while underway. Some riders go so far as to set up their desired model of tire at a dealer along the intended route. With the vagaries of unpredictable weather conditions and other hazards on long-distance rides, fresh tires are an important safety consideration.
Controls
A broken clutch cable or the malfunction of another mechanism essential to operating and controlling the bike can leave a rider stranded and potentially vulnerable. Make sure all hand and foot controls are working properly and in good condition.
Final Drive
Although shaft-drive motorcycles require less attention than chain-drive bikes, it’s still important to make sure the rear drive fluid is refreshed timely. For chain-drive bikes, the condition of the chain and sprockets should be checked for excessive wear and replaced if indicated. It’s important that the chain be adjusted according to specifications in the Owner’s Manual and that a can of chain lube be taken along for periodic oiling.
Brakes
Properly functioning brakes are important for safe riding. Front and rear brake pads should be inspected and replaced if necessary. Brake fluid should be evaluated and replaced if indicated by either a dark hue or the lapse of too much time since the previous brake fluid change.
Nuts and Bolts
A bolt or nut coming loose while traveling at speed can cause anything from a relatively minor annoyance to a life-threating event. Regularly inspect and verify that key nuts and bolts are at their proper torque. Apply thread lock to any that are likely to come loose from vibration. This is an especially important precaution if there will be any off-pavement riding.
Battery
My experience with motorcycle batteries is that even with the best care they usually last about three or four years. Because bump-starting a big touring bike isn’t a recommended way of staying in shape, don’t leave home on a multi-day tour with a battery that’s over two years old.
An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
While Frank Marsalisi can’t help you prevent a mechanical breakdown, he can be your best friend if you’re ever injured in a motorcycle accident.
St. Petersburg motorcycle attorney Frank Marsalisi believes that every client deserves his full attention. Your case will never be managed by a paralegal or case manager. Frank not only fights for your rights, he handles your insurance and hospital issues so you can concentrate on your medical recovery.
If you can’t come to Frank, he’ll come to you. Frank will listen to your story. He’ll consider all the facts and assess your case. He’ll give you his best advice, without charging you a penny. If you have a case, Frank will take it on. And you still won’t owe anything until you win a settlement.
Frank will stand up for you against powerful, wealthy companies and people. And if your case goes to trial, Frank will represent you personally. Frank has always been on your side. He’s a St. Pete native who has always worked for the plantiff.
Personal attention to personal injury.
