tips touring

Inspect Your Bike

While more detailed inspection and maintenance practices can be found in our motorcycle maintenance section, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's T-CLOCS method is an efficient way to inspect your bike before traveling:

• T: Tires.
  Make sure both tires are properly inflated, using an air pressure monitor that you bring with you on rides. Don't risk riding on tires that might need replacement; if suspect a tire will not last long enough for a ride, have it replaced.


• C: Controls.
  Are your cables (clutch and brakes) and controls intact and working?


• L: Lights.
• Make sure your headlights (high & low beam), turn signals, and brake lights work.
• O: Oils & fluids.
  Check everything from engine oil and coolant to brake fluid.
• C: Chassis.
  Ensure that the frame, suspension, chain, and fasteners are all secure and intact.
• S: Stands.
  Make sure the center stand and/or side stand isn't cracked or bent, and that springs properly hold the assembly away from the pavement when stowed.