 Administrator NEWBIE

Regist.: 03/29/2011 Topics: 3 Posts: 0
 OFFLINE | The problem
Not preparing a motorcycle before embarking on a touring holiday could increase the risk of breaking down or being involved in an accident. This checklist has been compiled to help you prepare your bike for a lengthy trip.
Ensure your motorcycle is roadworthy
Battery
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Check the condition of the terminals for cleanliness and security.
Inspect terminal voltage. If the voltage falls below 12v recharge with the battery removed from the machine.
Examine the electrolyte level and top up with distilled water as required. If the battery is of the maintenance free or "jelly" type, do not attempt to top up. Instead ask your dealer for advice.
Electrics
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Inspect the operation of the lights, including brake lights and indicators.
Examine the engine "kill" switch and the side stand safety circuit.
Ensure that the horn works properly.
Tyres and suspension
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Tyre condition should be checked for the correct tyre pressure and tread depth. Check your owner's handbook to ensure that tyre pressure is correct for load and speed conditions. The law requires that tyre tread depth should be a minimum of 1.0mm across 3/4 of the breadth of the tread and in a continuous band around the whole circumference - and that it should meet those requirements for the length of your trip.
Examine the condition of the side walls. If there are any signs of deterioration fit a new tyre.
Inspect both the tread and side walls for cuts and consult a tyre specialist if any are found. Cuts should be no longer than 25mm or 10% of the width of the tyre.
Consult your owner's handbook to ensure that your suspension does not require adjustment for increased load conditions.
Braking
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Inspect the front and rear brake fluid reservoir levels. If they are low, consult your dealer before riding the motorcycle.
Apply both front and rear brakes and then check for free movement of the wheels. If any "binding" is present seek your dealer's advice.
Ensure that the rear brake pedal returns fully after being depressed.
Examine the brake pad for wear. The average minimum manufacturer's advised thickness is 1.0 mm. Remember that the minimum may not be sufficient for your planned mileage. If in doubt replace the brake pads.
If you are intending to ride through mountainous or very hilly terrain, it may be prudent to replace the brake fluid if the machine is older than two years old. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. This alters the brake fluid's boiling point and ultimately results in the braking system being dramatically impaired when operating in demanding and/or high temperature conditions.
Forks
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Examine the fork stanchions for pitting. Any corrosion will damage the fork seals and can result in an MOT failure.
Inspect the fork seals for any signs of excessive fork oil and replace as required.
Drive chain
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Examine the free play on the bottom run of the drive chain, consulting your owner's handbook for advice on adjustment.
Look for tight spots by rotating the rear wheel. If there is difficulty in wheel rotation, this could indicate that a new chain is needed.
Inspect the rear drive sprocket for wear, making sure that the apexes of the teeth are not curved.
Providing the drive chain is in good order, apply a motorcycle drive chain lubricant.
It is advisable to include a travel size container of chain lubricant in your luggage.
Cables
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Inspect for smooth operation and a "free" return of throttle, clutch (where applicable) and choke cables.
Check for throttle free-play of 2-3mm. Consult your owner's handbook for adjustment details.
Clutch
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Cable. Examine and adjust the clutch freeplay at the lever. Consult your owner's handbook for instructions. The average free-play is around 3-4mm.
Hydraulic. Inspect the fluid level of the master cylinder through the sight glass. If found to be low, consult your dealer.
Engine
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Inspect the engine oil level and top up as required.
Take your motorcycle on a short run before a long journey, ensuring that the engine runs well.
Examine the coolant level in the header tank.
Inspect the operation of the electric cooling fan.
General information
Check tightness of all nuts and bolts, inspecting the securing of all standard luggage and attachments.
If in any doubt about any of the above checks and advice, consult an experienced mechanic or dealer.
Take a spare set of keys. Keep them on you - replacements may be difficult to obtain. If your motorcycle has an alarm, consider taking a spare battery for the remote fob or replace it before you travel. Remember not to leave spare keys in your luggage on the bike.
Most motorcycles have enough storage space under the seat to keep spare fuses, the bike's own tool kit, a temporary tubeless tyre repair kit, light bulbs, etc. Carrying these items may prevent an unnecessary delay and ensure you reach your destination.
If travelling outside the UK, check you have adequate breakdown, accident and travel insurance before you travel
Remember, if your machine is due, or nearly due, for a service, don't risk putting it off.....
Information are exact from RAC Know-How
Hope the above information helps. |