Tips for Getting Your Motorcycle Ready for Spring

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Spring is just around the corner and with warmer weather on the horizon, many motorcyclists will be taking their bikes out of storage and hitting the road once again. If you are looking forward to getting back out on the open road and enjoying the scenery of the countryside, there are a few things that you should keep in mind as you prepare your motorcycle for the spring season.

 

Everything You Should Know About Preparing Your Motorcycle for Spring

Whether you are gearing up to take your motorcycle out on a big cross-country trip, or just want to go for a ride through the mountains on the weekend, it is important to make sure your bike is ready for anything you may face while riding. Here are a few tips on how to keep your bike in good condition and avoid any costly repairs.

 

Keep an Eye on Your Tires

Take a minute to look over your tires and give them a good inspection. Look for any flat areas or cracks in the rubber. Also check for nails or screws that could have punctured a hole. If you see any exposed metal or wires making their way through the tread, it is time to get new wheels. However, if your tires pass the inspection, you will want to check the pressure and be sure they are inflated property before you head out.

 

Do a Thorough Inspection

There are several things that you should inspect on your bike after it has been stored away for the winter. You don’t want to end up on the side of the road with a broken chain or belt while you’re out riding. Inspect these items and look for any damage or wear and replace them if needed.

 

Spark plugs can be a simple change for some motorcycle models, and a difficult task for others due to where they are located. Either way, they are an inexpensive fix so if it has been a while since you’ve changed your bike’s spark plugs, it may be a good idea to do so before the Spring riding season begins.

 

Check the Battery

If it’s been a while since you’ve started up your motorcycle, you may want to remove the battery and allow it to change overnight. Check the fluid levels and add more battery fluid if there are any cells which are low. If your battery is over 4 years old, consider purchasing a new one.

 

Battery fluid isn’t the only levels you should be concerned about. You will also want to check out the oil and brake fluid levels as well. Plus, maintaining your engine oil levels is a good way to avoid expensive repairs in the future.

 

Change the Air Filter

A new air filter will help guarantee that your bike runs as it should. When the air filter is old and dirty, it prevents oxygen from entering the engine and that can lead to failure of the combustion process. If you examine your air filter and can’t see any light through it, it’s time to either clean or replace it.

 

Check your Brakes

One of the most important parts of your motorcycle that you should check would have to be the brakes. Giving your brakes a good inspection can help save you time and money in the long run. When you allow your brake pads to wear down to the metal, you could easily destroy the drums or disks of your brake system. Check your brake pads and if you don’t see a notch located at the top of the track, it’s time to replace the pads.

 

Check the Signal Lights

Checking your lights is another task that only takes a few minutes to complete, but it could help save you from a devastating accident while on the road. Make sure that your signal lights, headlights, and brake lights work properly. These lights are crucial while you are out on the road and allow you to communicate with others.

 

To learn more about safe riding and good motorcycle insurance, contact our team at ProtectiveAgency.com or call (877) 739-9367. Our licensed insurance agents will be happy to answer any questions you have.