Stay Upright - Are you ready for that holiday trip?
Apart from the obvious safety benefits that result from keeping your motorcycle in good condition, there is also the convenience factor, ie. your machine is more likely to be reliable and get you to your destination if everything is in good condition and working as it should. Murphy's Law would have it that you break down when it's raining, you're miles from anywhere and all the service stations are closed. While this can happen, a regular maintenance regimen for your bike can greatly reduce the likelihood that it will happen.
Tyres
Inflation pressure and wear have a significant effect on your tyres ability to handle correctly. Find out the correct tyre pressures for your bike and check them when the tyres are cold. Inspect your tyres for uneven wear and start thinking about a new tyre when tread depth is down to about 3mm. Rear tyres wear the centre out first and front tyres usually show the first signs of wear away from the centre. Don't skimp on tyres- they are the only contact with the road you have.
Chain & Sprockets
Set the chain tension so that when you are sitting on the bike there is about 20-25mm of movement. Lubricate the chain before it becomes dry and shiny - riding in the rain or on dirt roads will require more regular lubrication. Chains and sprockets wear out and the easiest test is to see if the chain hugs the rear sprocket tightly when pulled away. Always adjust the chain at its tightest point in the rotation.
Fuel/Oil
These seem obvious details, but to run out of fuel is embarrassing. Leaving your bike on the side of the road while you go to find fuel is very risky- it may not be there when you come back! Make sure you know the correct procedure for checking the engine oil level for your bike- there are various methods. To be sure, read the owner's manual. A low oil level can lead to expensive engine damage or a shortened engine life.
Brakes
Check for disc pad or lining wear, brake fluid levels, and watch for any leaks in hydraulic lines or frayed cables. The condition of your bike's brakes is a vital safety consideration.
Cables
Throttle and clutch cables also need periodic attention. Watch for frayed or worn surfaces and kinks. The throttle should operate smoothly when the handlebars are moved from lock to lock and return to idle without assistance when the throttle grip is released.
Electrics
Physically check that all of the electrics - including the head & tail lights, indicators and brake light - on your bike are functioning correctly. The horn should also be included in your check of electrical components. Slow starting or weak performance from lights can indicate a battery that is close to failing.
General
Ideally, we should check each of these items every time we ride. Do we? Not always. Often it's more practical to check them on a weekly basis, but definitely go through all the items listed above prior to any major trip. Not sure if something needs repairing/replacing? See your dealership. A small expense before the trip is always better than a much bigger one in the middle of it.
A regular maintenance schedule builds knowledge and confidence in your motorcycle. For the basics, your owner's manual is your best friend, as it will have all the manufacturer's recommendations on fluid types and capacities, tyre pressures, and plenty more. If you bought your bike without a manual, it's worth seeking one out, as it will always come in handy.
If you're not confident of your abilities with the spanners - and you certainly shouldn't undertaking major jobs if you're not - there are a number of motorcycle maintenance courses available. Some are run by local TAFEs, while a number of private companies and even some motorcycle dealerships also offer maintenance courses that are suitable for beginners. These are recommended if you're brand new to motorcycling. Some rider groups and forums can help in this area, too. Of course, if you're not sure what's needed beyond the basics, your local motorcycle dealer/s can satisfy most of your repair or maintenance requirements.
It is easy sometimes to just mount the motorcycle and ride off, but in the interests of our own safety we should take a few minutes to check that the machine is up to standard. Don't forget also to consider your own condition and remember if you are tired, stressed, or have your mind on other things, riding your bike may not be the smartest move.
Until next month, all of us at Stay Upright wish you a safe and enjoyable festive season and good luck in 2010.
Brendon Thompson
State Manager - Tasmania
Stay Upright Motorcycle Techniques
