How to prepare your motorcycle for a long journey?

Summer is approaching, the time for vacations and long journeys. If you are planning a motorcycle trip this year, it is worth preparing for it in order to avoid unnecessary nerves. We advise what to check on the motorcycle before leaving to increase driving safety and minimize the risk of breakage.

What will you learn from this post?

• What fluids in a motorcycle should be checked or replaced before leaving?
• How to check the condition of your tires?
• What systems to check before a long trip?

Shortly speaking

Before going on vacation, check the oil, coolant and brake fluid levels.... If necessary, eliminate the deficiencies or replace them completely. Note if all your motorcycle headlights are working properly and take out spare bulbs... Also remember to check the brake system, chain, spark plugs and tire condition.

Oil and other working fluids

Start your preparation by checking the fluid levels and filling in any gaps. An oil change is usually recommended every 6-7 thousand. kilometers (together with oil filters), brake and coolant every two years... If you are planning a long trip and the date of replacement is approaching, you should do it a little earlier at a trusted locksmith or in your own garage. Even a minor defect can effectively ruin travel plans.

Lights

In Poland, driving with headlights on is compulsory around the clock, and a fine will be charged for their absence. Even if you are going to a country with different rules, Effective lighting should be taken care of for your own safety.... When choosing new motorcycle bulbs, check the type, brightness and shock resistance. Also make sure they are approved and approved for use on public roads. The safest solution is always lamps from well-known manufacturers such as Osram, Philips or General Electric.

Tires

Driving with poorly inflated and worn tires results in poor traction and can be disastrous.... Before leaving, be sure to check pressure There is a compressor at almost every gas station. Also check tire wear - the tread grooves along the edge of the tire should be at least 1,6mm deep. If you are close to this value, it's time to think about changing - preferably before departure.

Hamulce

I don't think you need to explain to anyone that Efficient brakes are the foundation of road safety... Before driving, check the condition of the cables and the thickness of the discs (at least 1,5 mm) and pads (at least 4,5 mm). Also think about brake fluidwhich absorbs moisture over time, which reduces the efficiency of the system. It is recommended to replace it every two years, but it is safer to do it every season.

Chain and candles

Before a long trip clean the chain with a special spray and then lubricate it. Also check its tension - run the motor a few meters, making sure that the chain is working properly. If your car has spark ignition, check the condition of the spark plugs and replace them if necessary.

What else can come in handy?

When traveling, be sure to take a first aid kit and basic tools with you.... Useful on a longer trip spare set of cameras, engine oil, fuses and bulbs. Also remember to have side trunks or luggage bags, insurance and a map or GPS in advance. For a longer route, it is worth equipping the bike with accessories that increase ride comfort, such as additional outlets for navigation, heated grips or a raised window.

If you do not feel able to ...

Remember! If you have any doubts about the condition of your machine, be sure to visit a certified service center.... Inspection before a long trip is important for your safety. It is much better to have your motorcycle checked out than to look for a workshop in the dark while driving. A little mishap can ruin a long-planned vacation!

Do you want to know more?

What should be a good motorcycle oil?

Motorcycle season - check what you should check

Holidays on a motorcycle - what is worth remembering?

The best way to take care of your bike is with avtotachki.com.

Photo: avtotachki.com, unsplash.com