Motorcycle maintenance is an art. It could also be the difference between life and death on the road. If you own a motorcycle, it’s on you to make sure your vehicle undergoes regular maintenance checks.
This article details a list of checks you can do for a safe ride the next time you set out to explore St. Petersburg, the second-most populous city in the Tampa Bay area. While you’re out there, don’t forget to explore the numerous art museums and independent galleries in the city.
Motorcyclists continue to take the lead in traffic accident fatalities. In many cases, this may not be due to the actions of the motorcyclist. Having the assistance of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in St. Petersburg will give you a better understanding of your rights if you ever find yourself in an accident.
Maintenance Check 101
You don’t have to be a whizz to do routine checks on your motorcycle. Here’s a list of things you can keep an eye on to ensure top performance:
Start with the basics
It’s always best to start with the basics. Give your motorcycle a look over to see if there is anything out of place. Is there any drip under the bike that needs to be investigated? Check all the joints and pivots for any signs of wear and tear.
Obvious mechanical faults that need to be repaired can sometimes be spotted this way. For example, if you fail to notice a leak in your brake fluid before you ride your motorcycle, you have an increased chance of getting into an accident.
Check your battery level
Motorcycle batteries are used to power the engine and the lights. Typically, batteries need to be replaced every 5 years. You can check the manufacture date on the battery and have it replaced if it’s close to 5 years of usage.
If the batteries are not maintained and replaced on time, they could give out when you’re on the road.
Say you take your motorcycle out for a ride around dusk, and your lights don’t come on. You could get into an accident if you’re riding on a highway and a truck in the opposite lane can’t see you.
Examine your tires
It is essential for your tires to remain in good condition for stability and traction on the road. You should regularly inspect your tires for signs of uneven wear and tread depth.
Sometimes sharp objects on the road can embed themselves in your tires or cut them. This can lead to accidents, as your tires will not have enough traction on the road.
Every motorcycle has a standard for tire pressure and a specific tread design. You should ensure that an adequate level of pressure is maintained by referring to your motorcycle manual or checking with a local mechanic. If the right pressure is not maintained, there is a risk of the tires bursting on the road.
Inspect the chain
The chain is an important part of your motorcycle’s drivetrain, and it needs to be properly lubricated to function well. If there is any damage to your chain, it could get jammed, causing an accident while you’re on the road. It is essential to inspect it regularly.
Make sure you clean your chain with an industry recommended cleaning product and lubricate it after every few hundred miles of usage. Or, you can make sure that your mechanic does it for you.
Check engine fluid
Engine fluid keeps your engine functioning smoothly. It lubricates all the moving parts, keeps your engine cool, and reduces wear and tear. It needs to be replaced regularly. Failing to do so could lead to engine failure.
Make sure your mechanic inspects your engine fluid at regular intervals to avoid accidents on the road. If you’re riding at high speeds and your engine fails, there’s a high probability that you could get into an accident.
If you ever find yourself in an accident, it is advisable to contact a lawyer. They can counsel you on the steps to take depending on the specifics of your case. You may be liable for compensation, and you could sue your mechanic for negligence.
Conclusion
Motorcycles can be fun to ride, but being in an accident on one can be deadly. There are steps you can take to ensure your safety on the road. Regularly inspecting your motorcycle can reduce the chance of mechanical failures.
Despite this, if you still find yourself in an accident, you should consider hiring a lawyer to cover your losses.