Motorcycle Safety Checklist

A bit of preparedness can go a long way when it comes to motorcycle safety. Whether you prefer to use your bike for commuting or touring, you should always go down a mental checklist to make sure things are in working order before you ride. You’ll be surprised what you can find during a quick round of preventive maintenance. With that said, it’s much better to take care of any potential issues prior to hitting the road.

Here at Tracy Motorsports, we’ve got the lowdown on motorcycle safety. For more information or if you need parts or service before your next ride, visit our dealership in Tracy, California. We also proudly serve Stockton, Modesto, and Livermore.

Tires

Blowouts on a motorcycle can be extremely dangerous, so it’s critical to check your tires before each and every ride. You can use a tire pressure gauge to get a good idea of where the tires are at. In addition, you should examine the treads for wear. Remember that treads should wear evenly on both the front and back. If you notice an inconsistency, you might have a weight distribution problem on your hands.

You should also check the tire wall for any scalping, cracking, or gashes. Rubber will harden over time, so any of these red flags could indicate that it’s time to replace your tires. Last but not least, make sure there are no foreign objects lodged in the treads. While you might’ve avoided a puncture on the road, foreign objects can still get loose in the tread. If it comes loose on a future ride, it could be an issue. Identify stuck objects and handle them before they become a danger.

Oil

Don’t forget that engine fluids keep your motor healthy so it can perform well. Therefore, it makes a lot of sense to take a look before you ride. Leaks can cause rapid deterioration without your knowledge. If you check your oil regularly, you’ll be able to notice this type of issue right away before you start losing an excessive amount of fluid. 

Remove the dipstick, wipe it down, place it back in, then remove it to check the color and level. If you’re running low, replace it with as much oil as needed. You should always be sure to use oil that’s compatible with your bike. Checking the dipstick also lets you know when the oil is wearing down. If it’s too viscous or dark, you’ll want to get it changed before it gets too worn.

Brakes, Clutch, Throttle

The brakes, clutch, and throttle are all key components of your motorcycle. Start by checking the discs on your brakes and ensure they're shiny and clear. You shouldn’t be able to see groove or divots. The brake handles should move easily and with minimal resistance. You can check their effectiveness once you’re in motion. A slow ride around the neighborhood should do the trick. 

Start moving and apply pressure a bit earlier than you normally would. As you do this, listen for squealing noises and feel for grinding or vibrations. Your throttle should operate smoothly and fully close on its own. If you notice your bike is idling at high speed when not in gear, it could mean your throttle isn’t closing all the way.

Last but not least, check your clutch to confirm it’s operating smoothly. You should be able to easily and quickly switch between gears on your motorcycle. If there’s any type of grinding when you switch to a new gear, this could mean your clutch isn’t engaging completely. 

Riding Gear 

Now that you’ve made sure your bike is in working order, it’s time to make sure your body is ready for the ride. A major part of motorcycle safety is being equipped with proper riding gear. No matter how short your trip is, you should never skip wearing gear. You’ll need riding boots, durable clothing to cover your skin, a helmet, and gloves. Eye protection can be very helpful, especially if your helmet doesn’t have a shield. The key to finding the right gear is making sure it’s going to hold up against the road and that it fits correctly.

If you’d like to learn more about motorcycle safety or you’re interested in browsing our inventory, stop by Tracy Motorsports today! Our dealership is located in Tracy, California near Stockton, Modesto, and Livermore.