10 Tips for a Routine Motorcycle Inspection

Our bikes carry the most precious cargo there is - us. Taking time for a routine inspection can make a big difference when it comes to safety and our enjoyment of the ride. No one wants to be stranded on the side of the road, or have an accident because of mechanical failure.

We know that we're vulnerable on the road and that riding a motorcycle carries risk. We can do a lot to lesson that risk by making both we and our bikes are fit and ready to ride.

Pre-ride inspections confirm they're worthy to carry us; checking them post-ride will catch any parts that may have come loose and we'll be able to note minor changes before they become major problems.

Your best resource is your owner's manual. Make these items part of your regular checks:

Tires:

Pressure: Measure when tires are cold. Both the tire and motorcycle manufacturer will have specifications and in all likelihood, front and rear tires will be different. Tread: If you're down to the wear bars, it's time for new tires. Look for worn tread, uneven wear, cracks, bulges, cupping, and any foreign objects. The photo shows something we found at one of our workshops.

Spokes: Uniformly tight and intact; they can be tightened with a spoke wrench. Rims need to be true with no dents.

Drive System: Unless it's electric, your bike will have either a chain, belt drive or drive shaft. Make sure chain tension is correct and that it's well lubricated. Check drive belt for wear and tension; if you have a shaft drive, check fluid levels and that there are no leaks.

Cables & hoses: No fraying or kinking; no binding when handlebars are activated.

Fluid levels: Oil, brake fluid, transmission, and coolant. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct way to assess. Make sure there are no leaks.

Lights and electrics: Activate brake light with front and rear brakes independently; check front and rear indicators, horn, headlights - high and low beams.

Throttle: Should snap back to home position.

Brakes: - check brake pads for wear periodically. Test both front and rear to make sure they're working satisfactorily.

Side stand: Retracts firmly: no bending, cracks or damage; the spring is intact and the cut-out switch functions.

Clutch and brake levers: Smooth operation, correct amount of free play and proper adjustment. Bonus: Look in the mirror. Make sure that you are physically, mentally and emotionally fit to ride.

How to Make Your Motorcycle Jacket Look More Interesting?

Few would debate the fact that our collective unconscious unquestioningly identifies leather with anarchistic rebellion or intimidating toughness. The fashion trends in the mainstream culture are often inspired by the stylish trends initiated by celebrities and fashion designers. If you are a die-hard observer of fashionable biker wear, you have probably taken a close look at the gorgeous images of Fergie and Kristen Stewart in sumptuous black leather jackets.

If you want to add an eccentric look to your persona, you can wear several accessories with your motorcycle jacket. These accessories will make your motorcycle jacket look more appealing thereby projecting a more vibrant and fashionable you! Highlighted below are some of the tips that will make your biker jacket look exceptionally fashionable!

a) If you know the trick of how to achieve perfect color coordination between your motorcycle jacket and other accessories, you are a few meager steps away from becoming a freelance designer. The soft, buttery richness of the jacket would look charming with a brightly colored dress. Additionally, if you plan on going to a formal party or a dinner engagement, your cropped leather jacket would look elegant with a cocktail dress and high heel stilettos.

Motorcycle Chain Maintenance - Chain Cleaning

Before I bought my first motorcycle I remember being a little hesitant about buying a bike with chain drive as I thought the maintenance would be too excessive. Being a newbie I went to one of my buddies who has had motorcycles since he was in his early teens. He laughed and told me he had never owned a bike with anything but, and that my concerns were groundless. He was absolutely right.

Chains are great for a few reasons. They are simple to maintain and cheap and easy to repair. They are light, much lighter than shafts, and introduce no changes to the handling of the motorcycle. Ever wonder why all the top sport bikes use chain? While belts and shafts are also excellent in their low maintenance and clean operation, they are either costlier or heavier.

What is required to maintain your chain? Ideally using a center stand or a paddock stand to get the rear wheel off the ground makes the job much easier. However, a long straight and level surface where you can move the motorcycle to get the chain to go one lap around the sprocket will also suffice in a pinch.