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5 Things To Do Before You Ride This Spring

Consider this your very own personal spring motorcycle checklist. Follow these 5 simple maintenance suggestions and you’ll be all ready to de-winterize your motorbike and get a nice smooth start to a sunny new season. Have a look!

Spring Motorcycle Checklist:

Tip #1 – Change your oil and filter

Temperature changes can create condensation in your motorcycle or scooter. Keep them running on fresh and clean oil.

Tip #2 – Change your spark plugs

New spark plugs are an easy way to keep your bike starting without effort. At a few dollars a plug it’s an affordable way to keep performance strong.
A spark plug may be small, but it has many components to it. You can tell a lot about how your bike is running based on the color of the ground electrode and the texture on thread. Fouling or improper Electrode gap is all it takes to throw off your ignition.

sparkplug_anatomy

Tip #3 – Check your tires

Check your owner’s manual and ensure you have the proper tire pressure. Measure your tread by the tires’ warning lines. Also keep your eyes open for any cracks or rot on older tires.

motorcycle tire  photo
Photo by mechanix

Tip #4 – Check your gear

Check your helmet, visor and other items of gear and ask yourself how old they are and if they’re up for one more season.
Please check these tips on Buying New Vs. Used Motorcycle Gear.

motorcycle helmet photo

Tip #5 – Don’t forget your fluids!

Radiator fluid and front and rear brake fluids need to be drained and flushed every so often. It’s easy to take these for granted and forget all about them, but check those levels and consult your owner’s manual.

As a general rule, try to change the coolant every year or 10,000 km, and your brake fluid reservoirs every year or two.

Bonus tip: Always remember the rider needs his or her fluids too!

Follow these easy steps and you’ll be all set for another exciting season. Happy riding, shiny side up everyone!

 

 

(Via: youmotorcycle)