Moto Tips | Pre-Ride Checklist
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A ride day isn’t all fun, because there should include a little bit of maintenance include in your routine at the track. We asked a few professional mechanics what the average rider should do to the bike before and in-between motos with the basic tools.
Check the tightness of the nuts and bolts. This is an important step that you’ll want to do pre-ride and between motos. Start at one end of your bike with an appropriate T-handle (8mm,10mm,12mm etc.) and give every visible fastener a quick hit, with importance on spots like the side panels, number plates, seat bolts, clamps, mounts, controls, and brakes.
Set the pressure in your tires and suspension to the track conditions. Too much or too little air in your tires and suspension will ruin the ride and can damage the components. Consult the owners manual for bike-specific information.
Check the spokes and sprocket bolts. Start at the rim lock and tighten every third nipple until you’ve gone all the way around the wheel. Follow a star pattern while checking the sprocket. It is recommended to do this before and after every ride on some bikes, especially during break-in.
Tighten, clean, and lube the chain. The “three fingers on the swingarm” rule is a good base to start from. This is another task that should be repeated midday.
Check and top-off fluids.
Remove excess mud. This will remove unnecessary weight and reduce wear at certain areas of the bike.
