Bike Safety
The following checks are recommended when you haven't used your motorcycle for a while.
Your Bike
Your motorcycle may have been in good working order when you last used and it may still retain a current MOT. If you haven't used it for a while e.g. though the winter, a comprehensive check of the bike is a very good idea. As a minimum you should pay special attention to the following parts of your motorcycle:
- Brakes and fluids - brake fluid has a life and it is recommended that the fluid is changed on a frequent basis
- Tyre condition and pressures - Tyre condition is of very important. If your bike is not in regular use the tyres deteriorate at an alarming rate. Tread depth is one thing but cracks in the tyre walls will render a tyre useless. If you have any doubts in this area please seek advice from a main dealer or tyre supplier
- Fork seals
- Oil - oils can deteriorate when your machine is not in use. If it has been laid up for a while an oil change will help prolong the life of your bike
- Coolant - always worth a check, costs pence to fix
- Chain and sprockets
- Lights - working lights on a bike is essential as well as being part of the law
If you are not confident in doing the check yourself you should take your bike to a reputable dealership who should be able to carry out this for you. You might want to consider having a full service for the bike. See directory of UK bike dealerships.
Your bike gear - helmets etc.
Ensure that you check your safety equipment before using it. Definitely make sure you check the webbing on your helmet and scratched visors. Damaged helmets or helmets with worn webbing or straps must be replaced immediately. Your helmet could literally be the difference between life and death in an accident as such it is essential to look after it. Scratched visors effect your vision when riding especially at night or in wet weather.
If you have protective motorcycle clothing - wear it even if your intended journey is only short.
Accidents can and very often do happen close to home so there is no room for complacency in this respect.
Rider
Like any other activity to be competent preparation and practice is essential.
- You should practice machine and road skills as often as possible
- You should initially consider riding an appropriate route on your own, avoiding group riding is strongly recommended until correctly prepared and organised
- Do a few short journeys – avoid demanding routes or speeds until experience has been regained
- Re-familiarise yourself with the controls and handling of the bike
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