Hmmm, the weather is getting warmer (or should be) and the days are getting longer. Thinking about getting on the bike for a quick ride after work? That favorite 10 or 20 kilometer jaunt over some of your favorite local roads? Me too! but first, when was the last time you had the bike out? Given the weather over the last month, you probably haven't ridden in awhile which means you also probably haven't paid much attention to your bike. Before you just stick the key in and take off down the driveway, stop and check a few things out first. Look around and underneath the bike. Any drips, new stains, heaven forbid puddles!? Check the air pressure in the tires. No, just don't look at them, get that air pressure gauge out, bend over (or like me sit on the floor) and really check the air pressure. You do know what your tires should be inflated to, right? While you are down there, run your hand over the tires and look for anything not tire like. You know: nails, nicks and cuts, bald spots, those things. Also check the brakes. No rubbing or loose connections. Chain or belt drive? Take a look and make sure no obvious disconnects.
Okay, off the floor and ready to ride? Not yet. Squeeze the brake and clutch levels. Are they working smoothly? Have you checked the oil lately? By the way, when was the last time you changed it?
It's now time to insert the key...nope, no riding yet. We need to check the lights. Headlight, low and high beam, turn signals and rear light and definitely check the brake light. There are a few members who have a lot more lights on their bikes but we will let them take the next 30 minutes checking them out while we get on to other things.
Time to ride? Not so quick. Are you ready? I don't mean jacket, boots, gloves and helmet but are you mentally ready? You haven't been regularly riding, so you will be rusty in your skills. Just be aware of that. Go through a mental checklist of where you are riding and think about each part of the ride. Any hills, traffic, blind corners, etc.? Get out of your cage driving mode and into that open air, freedom of the road but exposed to everything and everyone mode. Until we get in consistently warm weather, the cagers will not be seeing a lot of motorcyclists on the roads and so will not be looking for you. You have to be the one to be extra cautious. Also, the roads themselves. You know, POTHOLES! Tire swallowing, handlebar twisting, potholes.
Now ready to ride? Let's see, boots, jacket, gloves, helmet and attitude. Good!
Push her into the driveway, turn the key and fire her up. Oooo, nice rumble.
Don't forget the mirrors.
Have a nice, safe ride, Oh, and also have fun.
