Spring Bike Readiness TIPS

by Jay Kuhns

With the 2024 riding season coming up. Here are a few things that we can do to get our bikes ready for the season. Some of these tips will not apply to all situations.

First of all, did we top off your fuel tanks with gas and stabilizer before we parked them last fall?

After our bikes have sat all winter, now would be a good time to inspect them for any leaks of oil or any other fluids. After the inspection, A good Washing would be the next thing to do. After that cleaning. Start at the bottom with inspecting the bike. Check the tires pressure, also for dry rot and cracks, tread depth .The manufacturing date, if the tire is over 5 years old it should be replaced. If the wheel is a spoke wheel, check the spokes for tightness or for loose ones. For  cast wheels check the bead area for any cracks or dents. Then spin each wheel to make sure they're true and not bent. Inspect the front and rear brake pads. Inspect the front and rear suspension components for leaks. Make sure the clutch and the throttle levers are moving without any restrictions. Now look the whole bike over for any loose or missing bolts or nuts. Now check your maintenance records to see what should be done to keep your bike in good working order.

Now let's move on to Your riding gear. First let's take care of the helmet. If you can remove the liner and cheek pads this would be a good time to wash them.  Check the manufacturer date of the helmet. If over five years old. Think about replacing it. Now for your jacket or suit. Clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions, and re-waterproof it.

Maybe one of the most important things to do to get ready for this riding season is for you Think about getting in shape, physically and mentally.  In addition, consider taking the Advanced Rider Training course or practice some parking-lot drills to hone up your skills.

Like I said at the start, this is a general outline. Maybe some of these Items will keep you safe. Hopefully you won't be standing on the side of the road with your cell phone, with no bars, wondering why. I left home on something I should not have left on to begin with.

Remember to always ride your own ride.