Preparing Your Bike for Motorcycle Season – 11 Tips

Preparing your bike for motorcycle season is one of the best motorcycle “chores” there is! Although some parts of the country are still battering cold and heavy snows, the warmth of Spring will soon be upon us all. With that warmth comes the beginning of motorcycle season! But before you bring your bike out of hibernation and hit the open road, there are number of tips for preparing your bike for motorcycle season you should keep in mind!

11 Tips for Preparing Your Bike

1. Give your bike a quick once-over. Remove any dust or debris that may have settled in during the months in the garage. If you covered the exhaust, be sure to remove any rags or covers that were used to keep out rodents.
2. Check over the fuel system. Did you use a fuel stabilizer when you put your bike away? If so, you’re probably set in this area, but still check the fuel cap and surroundings for any gunk or debris. If your fuel shows any signs of being anything less than clear, your best bet is to drain your tank and lines. While you are at it, check over your carburetor.
3. Check your fluids. Examine all hoses carefully and closely, looking for cracks and loose connections. Make sure all your fluids are clean and full. Flush and replace your antifreeze and air filter while you are at it.
4. Change the oil. Even if you changed the oil shortly before putting your bike away, it’s good to do it again. Fresh oil and an oil filter eliminate any risk of condensation buildup that can damage your engine.
5. Check out your battery. Did you remove the battery before storing your bike? If so, you probably just need to clean the cables and terminals before reconnecting. If you used a smart charger, you are probably set. But if you kept your battery connected over the season, it will need to be charged and possibly replaced. A word to the wise- next year, be sure to disconnect the battery before putting your bike away for the season.
6. How are your tires? If you’ve kept your bike elevated or on a soft surface, chances are, they are fine. But still give them a once-over. Check for any cracks, bulges, or flat spots. Use your tire pressure gauge and be sure you are within the range of pressure indicated by the manufacturer.
7. Check your controls carefully. Examine all hoses for cracks or leaks and cables for kinks or fraying. Check to ensure that your levers and pedals are operating properly.
8. Check the frame of your bike. Look closely for any cracks, dents, or other signs of damage. Be sure that the belt and chain are adjusted properly with the right amount of tension, and that the fasteners are tight.
9. Apply leather treatment to your seats, saddlebags, etc. Check closely for cracks or deep crevices that can indicate the need for replacement. While you are at it, polish your chrome. Always best to look good when you hit the road!
10. Call up your insurer and make sure that your policy is up to date. Many bikers are underinsured, so now is a great time to consider if you should adjust the limits of your policy. At the very least, make sure that you meet the minimum requirements for your state. But keep in mind that a basic policy may not be enough to cover all of the damages or medical care required in the event of a crash. Do NOT be caught without proper coverage.
11. Check your gear. If you are anything like me, you delay replacing gear as long as possible. But when you are on the road, your gear is the only thing protecting you in the event of a crash. Make sure your helmet fits well and allows you to see and hear clearly. Clean your helmet and gear thoroughly.

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Preparing your bike for motorcycle season need not be a chore – instead, think of it as the last thing standing between you and the open road. Ride safely as always, and if you are ever in a crash, remember the team of biker lawyers who have you covered – 1-800-MOTORCYCLE.