Checklist to Follow for Two-Wheeler Owners Before Riding After A Long Gap
->Did You Know:
Checklist-based care and maintenance when resuming bike usage is often skipped by bike owners owing to a busy schedule and cost concerns. However, in the long run, this can cost safety as well as lead to higher expenses.
Checklist For Care Before Resuming Riding After A Long Gap:
Battery
Every motorized vehicle's battery gets exhausted if not used for weeks. Start your two-wheeler's ignition up and verify if it turns on the backlight. If not then the battery has run down.
If you have a trickle charger and a power source close to your parking area you can try recharging the battery. Otherwise you can try a jump-start.
Sit on the driver's seat put on the first gear and request someone to push the two-wheeler. After gaining sufficient momentum switch to the second gear and release the clutch to see if the vehicle starts
The last resort is to seek a mechanic's help.
Tyre
Clean the tyres and check for cracks. Also make sure they are inflated enough.
Even if you had stored your two-wheeler after over-inflating the tyres they might have lost pressure over time.
Try to use a portable air compressor to inflate them. Otherwise push the vehicle to the nearest garage.
>Fluid levels
Fill up your fuel tank and check coolant and brake fluid levels as well.
>Wire
Check if rodents have gnawed through the wires on your two-wheeler causing tears.
>Chain
Check the chain tension for tautness and apply a good quality chain lube.
Fork seals brake discs rear shocks
Look for hydraulic leaks around the stanchion and seal. Wipe around with a dry tissue and check for bleedings. If you detect leaks check the fork for cracks.
Inspect the brake discs brake pads callipers and the rear shocks too.
First start
Usually your two-wheeler may be able to start with minimal throttle. But after remaining dormant for months the engine might need some energizing.
After starting the ignition keep it on for a few seconds to let the fuel prime the circuit.
Then if your two-wheeler has a kick-start option crank the engine and kick-start the vehicle.
However if it features only an electric-start switch do not apply pressure on the switch longer than three seconds.
If the two-wheeler does not start at one go press the switch for short intervals to prevent the starter from overheating.
Documents
Verify if all the papers and insurance are up to date. Due to riding out after such a long break many drivers can be a little rusty.
Stay financially protected against accidental damages by keeping your bike insurance in force.
Conclusion
After checking for wear and tear take care to inspect all lights indicators and brakes. When you take your vehicle for a ride during this pandemic make sure you wear a mask & gloves too.
