Motorcycle Pre-Trip Checklist
Taking your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle out for a journey down the highway is a great way to spend a full afternoon or even a multiple-day trip. But before each ride you take, it’s important to make sure two things are ready to go: you and your bike. You probably know how to take care of yourself (dress properly, drink water, get rest), but your bike may be a different matter.
Perform a pre-ride inspection following the steps on this list, provided to you by your friends here in Conway at Toad Suck Harley-Davidson®. Once you’ve completed these simple maintenance tasks, you should be ready to go wherever the road may take you!
Tire Check
Take a tire pressure gauge and check both your tires’ air pressure. If it’s not up to what’s recommended by the maker, then you’ll need to fill them up. While you’re down there, examine each tire for cracks in the sidewalls, low tread, bald spots or embedded objects.
If you find any of these issues, you’ll either need to fix them yourself or get your bike into the Toad Suck H-D service department so we can have a look at them and maybe replace those bad tires for you. Never ride on bad tires, even for a short trip! You could suffer a blowout that endangers both you and those around you.
Examine Brakes, Clutch, Signals & Throttle
Your next task is to see how your bike is functioning. Look at your brakes to make sure the discs look shiny and clear without grooves in them. Maneuvering the brake handles ought to be easy. Take a slow ride around your block to test how they respond to your pressure, applying a little at a time so you can feel for any grinding or hear any squeals that may necessitate a professional check-up.
Turn on your lights and test your signals to make sure those all function properly so you can operate your motorcycle safely and remain visible to other drivers. While you’re riding around the block, also check your throttle and clutch. Both of these should operate in a smooth manner without grinding or halting or failing to engage entirely. Complete your circuit and address any issues you’ve found.
Oil, Gas & Fluids
Remove your dipstick, wipe it down and reinsert it to get a clear view of the condition your oil is in. If your oil is clear and runny, you’re good to go with a top-up. But if you find sludge, you’ll need to change it before you ride. Metal shavings are a sign that engine parts are grinding against each other, which also requires a pro mechanic’s assessment.
Fill up your tank with gas before every ride. You never know when you’ll have to take a long detour or otherwise alter your route, and you might ride several miles without seeing a gas station. Take advantage of low prices when you spot them!
Finally, make sure your coolant is topped off and that the radiator cap is sealed with no leaks or fluids pooling beneath your bike. Then look at the brake reservoirs to make sure they both have plenty of brake fluid in them, topping off as needed.
Inspect Riding Gear
You’ll also want to make a priority of looking over your riding gear. Your helmet and riding suit or jacket need to be in good condition, and you’ll want to have sufficient eye protection. Carry a first aid kit and a small tool repair kit on your bike and check these before your ride to see if either needs replenishing. It pays to be prepared!
Come down to see us in Conway so we can show you our full inventory of new and used Harley-Davidson® bikes for sale in several styles. Toad Suck H-D proudly serves the cities of Searcy, Hot Springs, Fort Smith and Russellville, Arkansas.