Bike prep starts with a good washing and inspection after the last ride. NOW is the time to find any problems so parts can be ordered and installed before you want to ride again.
Inspection is pretty easy. The MSF uses the acronym T-Clock to remind you what to check:Tires, Lights/Electrics, Oil, Chain & Chassis, and Kickstand.
Now is also a good time to lube your control cables and chain as well as making sure your controls are still set how you like them. If the bike will be parked for a while, you might consider draining the float bowl on the carb so the jets don’t clog up.
If you find something broken or worn out, order the parts and get them changed while you have the time -- if it takes a few days to get the parts, so be it. It’s not like you found a problem the night before the ride with all the prats houses closed!!
If you have to replace your tires, try doing it in the garage with only the tools you carry on the trail. Hey, you should do all the maintenance with the tools you carry at least once! That way you’ll know if you’re carrying the proper tools for your bike!
Now you can park your bike knowing that the next time you want to ride, your bike will be ready to go with merely a quick check. Let’s Ride!!!
