Whether you ride your motorcycle every day, or you’re getting ready to take to the road as the weather improves, maintenance of your bike is important to help you ride safely and legally.
The P.O.W.D.E.R.S check can help keep you safe:
- Petrol – Check you have enough fuel for your journey to prevent breakdowns and putting yourself or others at risk.
- Oil – Reservoirs have upper and lower marks, and the oil level is usually checkable via a window in the engine casing; if not, use a dipstick to check. Ensure your motorcycle is parked upright on level ground. The correct oil level will prevent your engine seizing up.
- Water – Check coolant level and keep them topped up, as running out of coolant can cause your engine to overheat and damage your motorcycle.
- Damage/drive chain – Check the motorcycle over for any signs of damage, including checking for chain tension and lubrication and damage to sprocket teeth. If your bike has a belt rather than a chain, you should check for signs of damage such as cracking and drying.
- Electrics – Check all lights, including brakes and indicators are all working. Check cables are secure, and they or termination points are not worn as this can lead to failure of systems such as clutch, brakes or lighting.
- Rubber – Check your tyres once a week. Check tyre pressure when your tyres are cold and ensure they are set at the correct pressure as recommended by the manufacturer. Over-inflated motorcycle tyres can affect road grip and under-inflated can cause problems with braking and handling. Look for cracks, bulges or objects embedded in the tread. Take a look and make sure your tyres are wearing evenly, if they’re not your tyre pressures may be incorrect, or wheel assembly may be incorrectly balanced. Ensure tyres are clean and free of oil and grease, wash them with detergent if necessary. Check your tyre tread depth. It must be no less than 1mm around the circumference of the middle three quarters of the tyre. More information for motorcycle tyres can be found on the TyreSafe website but if you have any concerns, you should get advice from a qualified professional or an approved fitting centre.
- Self – Make sure you are fit to drive, not tired or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any medicines which may affect your riding. Plan your route, especially if you are taking your motorcycle out on a longer ride, and make sure you take frequent breaks.