This is the most IMPORTANT part of being a motorcycle rider. Prevention is always the best medicine and these steps should never be overlooked especially when going on longer rides. The standard by Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) for remembering your safety checklist is T-CLOCS. While this procedure goes over the majority of safety I will be including some other things I believe should be checked as well.
T-CLOCS
This stands for tires, controls, lights, oils, chassis, and stands.
Tires
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| Penny guage |
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| Do not be this stupid |
While on a car tires might be taken for granted sometimes running them down to almost no thread. On a motorcycle taking anything for granted could cost you your life. Checking the thread on your tires starts with the thread-wear indicator in the grooves. Make sure that when these indicators become flush with the tire that an appointment is made to get a new pair of tires. If it is hard to determine with those marks get a penny and put it with Lincoln's head down. If the thread on the tire is less than the space between Lincoln's head and the edge of the penny you need new tires. Check the air pressure with a pressure gauge making sure that the correct amount of air is ingested by the tire. Give a good pull on the rims and the tire itself to make sure that nothing is loose. and finally look for any cracks or bulges on the tires and rims.
Controls
The controls of a motorcycle make things like braking and gear shifting easy so always show them some love. All pedals and levers should work smoothly and show no signs of failure. There should be no leakage, tears, abrasions, bumps, or even signs of deterioration. The throttle should also snap back and close when pressure is lifted off of it.
Lights
Being visible sometimes is all you need to be safe on the road. Turn your motorcycle on and see if it has any trouble starting. Check the battery for signs of age and leakage. Once the battery is okay honk the horn as well. Next test the Headlamps and high beams, turn signals, and brake lights. Make sure reflectors are crack free and no exposed wires.
Oils and Fluids
Oils and fluids are mandatory for combustion engines. Oil keeps the engine lubed up so less friction occurs on the various moving parts and fluids make sure all other device perform with utmost precision. The things to check here are the sight glass on the engine, the coolant reservoir, and brake sight glass.
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| This is why you check fluids |
Chassis
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| Suspension |
The main thing holding your bike together is the frame and suspension otherwise know as the chassis. Out of all tests this step should never be skipped because it is the most important. Inspect the frame of the bike for corroding paint, cracks, and damage. Check the bolts to make sure they are fastened. The front and rear suspension should move freely and give no resistance and while you are here check the coils for any damage. The exhaust should also be firmly attached and show no signs of leakage either. Another good idea is to check the sprockets for wear.
Stands
Most bikes have a center and side stand. Which ever one your bike has make sure to check it for damage and looseness. Check the springs and put them down to make sure they still work. This falling down at freeway speeds is costly. These are the recommended safety inspection items before you go on a ride. I personally believe there are some other things you should check as well, check them out below.
Mirrors
Pretty simple right? Make sure these are adjusted before you ride. It is very easy to only see elbow when on the road so make sure there is enough clearance in the mirror to see traffic as well.
Helmet
Make sure the strap at the bottom is fastened and if there is bluetooth or other electronics in the helmet turn them on before your take off. Again you don't want distractions while you ride.
Jackets, Protection Gear And The Rider
Make sure all gear is fastened, belted, zipped, and Velcroed. You don't want it coming off in the middle of a ride. Finally make sure you are ready to ride and fully aware on the road do not make excuses like its only a 10 minute ride, 10 minutes could be your last.
While these things are extra they protect you the rider and are just as important as checking the bike. All inspections should be performed on a regular basis so it becomes more habit instead of hassle. Get to know your bike inside and out because if things are missing you want to make sure they get replaced.
