The quick safety check before every ride

Many technical problems give warning signs in advance. A quick two-minute check before every ride catches most of them in time.

Tyres

• Pressure: check with cold tyres, ideally weekly with a gauge. The correct values are in your owner's manual or on a sticker on the bike.
• Tread and damage: look at tread depth, cracks, bulges and any nails or glass.

Brakes

Squeeze the front brake lever and press the rear brake pedal: they should feel firm, not spongy. Check the reservoir's sight glass for enough brake fluid.

Lights and electrics

Check the dipped beam, main beam, brake light (with both lever and pedal), indicators and horn.

Chain

Is the chain lubed and correctly tensioned? More in our guide to chain maintenance.

Fluids and leaks

Check the oil level and, on a liquid-cooled bike, the coolant. Look under the bike for drips on the ground.

Controls

Do the throttle, clutch and steering move smoothly, and does the throttle snap back on its own? Are the mirrors adjusted correctly?

And yourself

A well-fitting helmet, gloves, jacket, trousers and boots make a big difference. Set off rested and take regular breaks on long rides.

Found something that isn't right? Don't ride off; have it checked by a motorcycle shop near you.