Getting Ready For The First Ride

Andii Adamick

 

Here are some thoughts before that first warm sunny day.

 

Most of us have spent the winter not riding (see winter storage). That means when the weather starts to get nice we will all be thinking about riding.

 

Is everything good to go?

 

If you had it stored at a shop, they will prep it for you. If you did (or didn’t) winterize it yourself, you may want to think about a few things before you just jump on and ride.

 

What to check over?

• Check your tires – pressures – tread – anything stuck in them.
• Check your oil / fluid levels.
• Make sure the battery is charged up.
• Check final drive adjustment.

 

If you plan to ride (or day tag) your bike at a certain time, a week or two prior to riding is a good time to go over things and make sure all is ready. Maybe consider replacing anything that might need replacing. Most shops are not that busy this time of year and if you need service or repair get in there before the line-ups start. Once the weather gets real nice shops get busy.

 

 

 

 

Now that your bike is good to go what about your gear? I like to remove my helmet’s shield and give it and the lid a thorough cleaning. Check the shield mechanism, screws and make sure all is as it should be.

 

Tip: I like to clean and check my gear before I put it away for the season. I leave the helmet on a shelf with the visor open for at least a week so it will air / dry out. Anything leather gets the treatment (waterproofing and/or moisturizing). Textile gets cleaned according to instructions.

 

 

If you’ve been off your bike for several months just don’t jump on and take off. Anticipation may be high but skills can be rusty, especially if you are still new to riding. Not a bad idea to just ride around the neighbourhood to get comfortable. Find an empty parking lot, take a friend and practice some basic maneuvers. Familiarize yourself with how the bike feels and balances.

 

Once everything is as it should be you are good to go.

Enjoy the ride!