Motorcycle Maintenance to Keep You Safe

motorcycle maintenance

While some accidents are purely out of our control, there are certain things that you can do at home to prevent motorcycle accidents. Proper motorcycle maintenance keeps your bike in good condition, and therefore keeps you safer. In other words, taking care of your motorcycle can help to prevent certain accidents. 

Here are parts of your motorcycle to check before and after you ride to make sure that you remain safe. 

Wheels, Tires, and Brakes

Prior to your ride it’s always a good idea to examine your wheels, tires, and brakes to ensure that they still have enough tread and aren’t too worn down. Also, check the air pressure in your tires to make sure they are filled properly; if not, add more air. Finally, check your brakes to make sure they are working. 

Controls

Controls can be a bit more complicated. Although there’s a good chance that you’ll be unable to fix them on your own if there’s a problem, you can help diagnose the problem before taking it to a shop to be repaired. Prior to your ride be sure that all of your other controls (pedals, handlebars, cables, hoses, throttle, and pedals) are in proper working order. 

Lights and Electrical Features

Other parts of your bike to check are the lights and electrical features. If a bulb is out you can likely change it yourself at home. But if you have any electrical issues (i.e. if the wires are dangerously frayed), it’s important to take the motorcycle to a professional who knows how to fix the problem safely. It’s important to note that you should also check the light on your headlamp if you have one, as well as your mirrors to ensure they aren’t cracked. 

Oil and Fluid Levels

Before you hop on the back of your bike make sure that your fluids, such as your oil, are filled to where they should be. If necessary, top off whatever you need more of before your ride. Then, after your ride, always make sure that there aren’t any drops falling through the cracks under your bike as this could indicate a leak.

Frame and Suspension

The next things you’ll want to check are your suspension, belt, chain, frame, and fasteners. While some people may have the knowledge to fix any of these things at home on their own, if you have any doubt whatsoever it’s a good idea to take your bike to a local shop so that a professional can make sure it’s taken care of properly. 

There’s no doubt that this is a somewhat lengthy list to check before and after every ride. However, once you know what to look for it shouldn’t take you very long. Checking these parts of your motorcycle and keeping up with proper maintenance can even be the difference between life and death. 

MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those in NM Who Have Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident

While you can do everything right, sometimes accidents still occur. (Unfortunately, we have no control over other drivers.) If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it can greatly impact your life. It can be difficult enough dealing with your substantial injuries, but it can be even harder when you are left to pick up the pieces financially. You should never have to pay the price for someone else’s mistakes. 

At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of personal injury accidents and understand the effects that such accidents often have on just about all aspects of your life. We will always act in your best interest. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Posted in: Motorcycle Accident