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Weekly motorcycle inspection
Read your owner’s manual and save it for future reference,
should something go wrong with your motorcycle.
There is only one way to spot problems before they cause
trouble. Inspect the motorcycle carefully and fix things right away.
Earlier in this manual, we described checks that should be made
each time you ride. Here are some things to check once each
week.
Tires
Check the tread to make sure it is deep enough. You should have
no less than 1.5 mm of tread depth left in any groove. If the tread
is getting low, buy new tires. Inadequate tread depth will greatly
reduce your braking traction on wet roads. If the wear is uneven,
have the wheels balanced and the alignment checked. Make sure
the air pressure is correct, as many blowouts are due to low air
pressure.
Also check for cuts, scrapes, exposed cord, abnormal bumps or
bulges, or any other visible tread or sidewall defect.
Wheels
Check both wheels for missing or loose spokes. Check the rims
for cracks or dents. Lift the wheel off the ground and spin it.
Watch its motion and listen for noise. Also move it from side to
side to check for looseness.
Controls
Check the controls for smooth operation. Check the cables for
kinks or broken strands. Lubricate the control mechanisms at
each end of the cable.
Chain and sprockets
Oil the chain and check for wear. Your owner’s manual will
describe when and how to tighten a chain.
Shock absorbers
Does your motorcycle bounce several times after it crosses a
bump? Do you hear a “clunk?” If so, your shock absorbers may
need to be adjusted or replaced.
Fastenings
Check for loose or missing nuts, bolts or cotter pins. Normal
vibration loosens parts. If you keep the motorcycle clean, it is
easier to spot missing parts.
Brakes
If you hear a scraping sound when you try to stop, or if the
brakes feel spongy, have them serviced immediately.
Fluid levels
If your motorcycle has hydraulic brakes, check regularly that the
fluid level is high enough.
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Maintenance