Now that the weather is becoming consistently warm, the urge to get your motorcycle out may be undeniable. Whether you ride to work, for pleasure or both, summer is an exciting season for spending time on the open road on your bike.
Before you hurry to get on your bike, it is essential to ensure you are ready to have a safe ride. While you spent the winter waiting to ride again, some of the equipment that keeps you safe may have deteriorated.
Here are a few things you should check before it is time to hit the road.
Checking your bike
If your motorcycle has been sitting all winter, you should check all of the systems to ensure it is ready to go. In addition to your wheels and tires, you should also look over your fluids, lights and controls to ensure that everything is in good shape.
If you are unsure about your skills in checking your bike, you should talk to a professional who can look over your bike and give it a tune-up. When you take steps to ensure your motorcycle is ready for the season, you can be more confident when you go out for your first ride of the year.
Updating your safety gear
Safety gear is an essential part of motorcycle safety. While you may not have had an accident last year, you should still check over your equipment to ensure it does not need to be replaced.
As you look at your gear, look for tears or places where the mechanisms are not what they used to be. You should also remember that some safety gear, like helmets, should be replaced every few years, even if you have not been in a crash.
While you are checking your gear, you should look at any updates from the motorcycle community. You should watch for updates to equipment and recalls on items you already own.
Motorcycle safety is essential for everyone on the road. When you are able to ride your bike safely, you can ensure a better experience for everyone around you.
