Tips for Making Sure Your Bike is Ready for Spring!
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Now that winter is on its way out the door and spring is on the Horizon, it’s time to hit the road. Before you start planning those great springtime road trips, make sure your bike is as road ready as you are.
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Here’s a check list to make sure your bike is ready for the road.
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Battery Check: You won’t get off the block without a battery that’s charged. Unless you’ve given your Bike a little extra TLC over the winter, it will likely need some attention now.
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- Disconnect and top it off with some distilled H2O and a slow charge start up. (FYI: Tap water often has minerals that can shorten battery life).
- Scrub off corrosion with a stiff brush and a baking soda/ water mix, but if it’s leaking around the terminals, you are best to chuck it.
- Wait till it’s fully charged before you reinstall. (For most batteries, you want hydrometer readings of 1.26-7 at 80 degrees; Volt meters should reach 12.6 across the terminals).
- Use a little petroleum jelly to protect and prevent any future corrosion!
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Carburetor Check: We’ve come a long way since the first Harley that used a tomato soup can as a carburetor back in 1903. It’s a good idea to locate the drain screw and drain any stale fuel.
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Sparkplug Check: Since they are relatively inexpensive, it’s a good idea to go ahead and replace your Bike’s spark plugs. You know the saying “An ounce of prevention...”
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Gunky Gas Check: Gunky gas that’s been sitting in an engine for 90 days or more should be drained from the tank and flow bowls.
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Filter Check: This is a great time to replace fuel filters, clean petcock screens, and inspect air filters. Check to make sure that a loveable little critter didn’t make itself at home there over the winter. This hospitality can be problematic!
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Tire Check: Tires typically lose air pressure hibernating all winter. Take time now to closely inspect tires for any wear or damage and make sure that they have proper pressure.
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Fluid Check: Sludge can accumulate in any fluid areas, so check antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission, engine oil/filter, primary case, and rear drive oil levels. If you can’t remember when they were last changed, it’s a good idea to go ahead and change them now.
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Cable Check: Examine for unwanted free play and a little lubricant won’t hurt either.
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Brake Pads/Shoes: A quick check should let you know if there’s too much wear on your brake pads /shoes and you should replace them as needed.
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Try and go a little slower on that first spring ride after winter hibernation. Your bike might be ready to go, but your riding skills might need a gentle warm up before you go full throttle! Happy and Safe Spring Riding!
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