Motorcycle season is finally here. Without any more snow in the forecast - and with the rain finally tapering off - many riders are taking their motorcycles out of winter storage and getting them ready to hit the road. If you are a rider, then you know that this does not simply mean rolling the bike out of the garage, hopping on, and then riding off into the sunset. With your motorcycle having been in storage for so many months, you will want to make sure it is in prime riding condition so you can remain safe on the road.
Brakes
While it is true that keeping your gas tank filled is a good place to start, a more important aspect of motorcycle maintenance is regularly checking the brakes. Because motorcycles are small and fast, being able to safely come to a stop is paramount to avoiding collisions with other motorcycles, cars, or obstacles on the road.
Over time, motorcycle brake pads tend to wear out and get dirty since they are more exposed to the elements than brake pads on a car. You should clean your motorcycle brake pads regularly and get them replaced when there is not much life left in them.
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It is also important to make sure you have the proper amount of brake fluid for your motorcycle. Brake fluid helps with braking power, which will reduce as the brake pads wear out over time. It is recommended that riders check the brake fluid canister every few months and make sure it is topped off.
Proper Maintenance Will Help Keep You Safe
It is one thing to end up in a motorcycle accident due to another motorist’s negligence, but it is something else entirely when an accident happens because your motorcycle was not properly maintained. Making sure your brakes are in proper condition is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to motorcycle maintenance.
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Other parts of the motorcycle that you should ensure are in working order include the lights and indicators, the tires, the drive chain, the battery, and your oil level. All of these play a role in keeping your motorcycle running smoothly and correctly and providing you with the ability to remain safe from hazards on the road — whether those hazards are other vehicles, animals, or debris.
If you lack the skill needed to keep your bike properly maintained, there are plenty of mechanics out there who can help. This is especially important to do prior to the riding season.
