Getting Ready to Ride
- 1/29When starting a commercial motorcycle ride
Before every ride, inspect critical parts like tires, brakes, lights, mirrors, and fluid levels to ensure safety and avoid mechanical failure or legal issues while on the road.
If tire tread is less than 2 mm
Tread depth below 2 mm reduces traction and braking performance, especially on hot or slippery roads, increasing risk of skidding or losing control.
If mirrors are loose
Loose mirrors compromise rear visibility, making it difficult to monitor traffic and increasing the chance of collisions or unsafe lane changes.
When preparing for delivery rides
Wearing long sleeves, long pants, and abrasion-resistant gear helps reduce injuries in falls and shields your skin from wind, sun, and road debris.
If gloves are not worn
Gloves enhance grip, prevent hand fatigue, and protect against abrasions or burns in case of a fall or contact with hot engine parts.
When checking fuel level before shift
Starting a delivery with a full tank prevents delays or roadside stops, ensures you meet deadlines, and avoids breakdowns in unsafe areas.
If brakes make noise or feel weak
Squealing, grinding, or soft resistance in brakes are signs of wear or fluid issues, and ignoring them can lead to complete brake failure.
When inspecting motorcycle chain
A dry, slack, or overly tight chain may snap or derail, posing a serious risk of accidents and compromising your ability to accelerate or brake.
If riding at night or in low visibility
Reflective clothing helps other road users see you in dim light or rain, significantly reducing the risk of being hit by vehicles.
When putting on your helmet
A helmet must be fastened tightly under the chin to stay in place during a crash and provide full protection to the head and brain.
If the horn is not working
A functioning horn helps you alert others of your presence and is vital in emergencies where visibility or space is limited.
When inspecting lights and indicators
Lights, brake lamps, and turn signals help you see the road and communicate your intentions to others, especially in low-light conditions.
If testing the clutch
Clutch should engage smoothly and without jerks; problems can cause stalling, sudden movements, or transmission damage.
If choosing riding footwear
Proper riding boots protect your feet from burns and crush injuries, and provide strong grip when stopping or maneuvering the bike.
When inspecting suspension
Good suspension absorbs shocks from the road, supports stability, and prevents fatigue, especially during long rides or with heavy loads.
If tire wear appears uneven
Uneven tire wear often indicates misalignment or improper pressure, both of which reduce handling precision and tire lifespan.
When checking engine oil
Dirty or low engine oil causes overheating and mechanical damage, reducing the engine’s efficiency and risking sudden failure.
If overloading cargo
Overloading affects balance, braking distance, and maneuverability, and can lead to falls or loss of control in traffic or on turns.
If steering feels stiff
Stiff or jerky steering might signal misalignment, bearing damage, or lack of lubrication all serious safety hazards when riding.
When tires are cold
Cold tires have reduced grip, especially on wet or dusty surfaces; riding gently until they warm improves safety and handling.
If side stand is down
Forgetting to retract the side stand can cause it to catch the road when turning, potentially flipping or destabilizing the motorcycle.
When doing a walk-around check
A quick walk-around helps identify leaks, flat tires, or loose parts that could compromise the bike’s safety or lead to breakdowns.
If coolant level is low
Coolant regulates engine temperature. Running low can cause the engine to overheat, warp, or seize, resulting in costly repairs.
If chain is misaligned or loose
A misaligned or loose chain can come off while riding, causing sudden loss of power or even locking the rear wheel.
If brake fluid looks cloudy or low
Brake fluid should be clean and topped up. Low or contaminated fluid reduces braking effectiveness and increases accident risk.
When adjusting mirrors
Proper mirror alignment is essential to spot nearby vehicles, make safe lane changes, and avoid surprises from fast-approaching traffic.
If battery shows signs of failure
A weak battery can affect starting, lighting, and signaling functions, making your vehicle unsafe and unreliable on the road.
If tire pressure is too low
Underinflated tires cause poor handling, increased tire wear, and can overheat, risking a blowout or loss of control.
When testing throttle
A sticky throttle can cause the engine to keep revving unexpectedly, leading to uncontrolled acceleration and possible crashes.