7 things to check on your motorcycle before starting a trip

Before embarking on a trip with our motorcycle, it is essential that the lights, brakes, chain, tires, fluids and battery are in perfect condition, as well as the documentation of the motorcycle itself.

If we want to go on a motorcycle trip we need it to be in perfect shape to avoid possible mechanical problems, guarantee our safety and not frustrate our desire for vacation.

We all have the responsibility to take care of the proper maintenance of our motorcycle, and not only when a trip approaches, but above all in our day to day life. Some tasks we can do ourselves at home and for others it is possible that we may need the help of a professional workshop like Singleton Bike shop, that will depend on the means and the ability of each one, but what is clear is that taking care of the way out of our motorcycle is taking care of our own safety.

We focus here on seven elements that you have to check on your motorcycle before starting a trip with it, a small check that should always be up to date no matter what happens. Take note!

1. The state of the lights

You already know that on a motorcycle it is as important to see as to be seen, so be sure to make yourself seen when you ride a motorcycle. The lights are a very important safety system on a motorcycle, we are smaller and less visible, so everything we can do to make other drivers take us into account will always be little.

Check each of the lights on your motorcycle. Position, crossing, long, turn signals, rear position, rear brake ... If one of them does not work, do not go on a trip without fixing it first. In addition, if you carry a replacement lamp with you, even one for the headlight and another for the rear light, better than better, so you can fix it on the fly, wherever it strikes you.

2. How are the tires

This is something you should also check out from time to time. Tires are the only thing that connects us to the road, so our safety depends on their good condition. Directly.

Check that they do not show cracks or deformities, as well as that the pattern of the rubber is sufficient to offer a good grip. Check that the air pressure is correct, that a low pressure will directly affect the handling of the motorcycle and the consumption of gasoline. Check the entire surface well for possible damage or hidden punctures that have not yet shown their face.

Calculate the number of kilometers you can still travel with them. Will you have to change in the middle of the trip? If so, you should still change them before leaving and recover these old ones later if they still have life.

3. The brakes and their pads

Before setting off and going on a trip, take a look at the brakes on your motorcycle. You haven't checked at them for a long period of time? It's time to get down and check the wear of the pads, both front and rear. If you see that they need a change, it is better to do it now and not venture out on a trip like that. It can be a danger both for you and for the discs of the motorcycle.

In addition to the pads, also check the feel of the brakes. Check that both front and rear show good pressure, that they do not move idle, that the cases and the rear pedal do not show hesitation or bubbles and that everything is where it should be.

4. Liquids: oil, coolant, etc.

No, we are not referring to the gasoline in the tank, the insurance that you do not forget, but to those other liquids that your motorcycle uses to ensure its proper functioning.

Start by checking the oil level in your engine. Remember that you should always do it with the engine warm and consulting the motorcycle maintenance manual, although it is normal to do it with the motorcycle vertically, it may not always be the case. While you are, look for possible leaks or oil stains. Also, if you haven't changed it for a long time, maybe this is a good time.

If your motorcycle is liquid-cooled, also check the coolant level, and since you are taking a look at the level of the brake fluid, front and rear, and the clutch lever if it is hydraulically operated.

5. The chain and the whole transmission kit

If your motorcycle has a chain, you will already know better than anyone that this is the element that requires the most maintenance of your entire motorcycle. You will know that the chain requires periodic tensioning and greasing, that's for sure.

Well, before starting a trip make sure that the chain is in the state of tension recommended by the manufacturer and that its lubrication is correct. Also take a look at the pinion and crown, in case you need a replacement to the complete kit.

If your motorcycle has a cardan or belt, it is best to take a look at the maintenance book for your motorcycle to know the possible oil changes of the bevel gear or the useful life of the belt.

6. Battery life

We wouldn't risk going on a trip if the battery started to show signs of weakness, and you? If you have not used the motorcycle for a long time and you see that the battery has trouble moving the starter motor, and therefore starting the motorcycle, it is possible that all it needs is for you to take a ride with it to recover its charge.

But if even when you use it on a daily basis, you see that the battery does not have enough power to start the motorcycle ... Do not hesitate, the time has come to change it, especially if you are going on a trip.

7. Documentation and papers

Having the motorcycle papers controlled and in order is as important as reviewing your own mechanical maintenance. Before embarking on a trip, check that you have all the documentation with you and in good condition. Circulation permit, technical sheet, ITV sticker, insurance in force and with coverage abroad if you are going to leave the country ...