Guest article: North Wales Police
The weather’s getting better, and whilst some of you ride all year round, many of you will be itching to get back out on the roads after your motorcycle’s been stored away over winter.
After weeks or months of minimal or no use, preparing for the riding season is essential to help keep you safe on the roads.
Here’s a short maintenance checklist you can do whilst you get your bike ready ahead of the season:
1. Battery and electrical check
Motorcycle batteries often lose charge over the winter.
Inspect condition and clean terminals.
Recharge the battery or replace the battery if it’s old or won’t hold a charge.
2. Tyres
Tyres can lose pressure and perish if not used over time.
Inspect tread depth and look for any cracks or damage.
Check air pressure and inflate if required.
3. Fluids
Examine oil level, coolant level and brake fluid levels. Top up if required.
Old petrol can degrade and affect the running of the engine.
Consider oil and filter change if not completed recently.
4. Lights
Test that headlights, indicators and brake lights are functioning correctly and replace if defective.
5. Drive chain or belt
They can become contaminated, rust or crack and lose tension if poorly maintained.
Inspect chain/belt for wear and correct tensions.
Check sprockets for wear.
Ensure chain is correctly lubricated.
6. Brakes and controls
Check wheels turn freely, and brakes are not bonding. They can become seized if left for some time.
Inspect brake pads for wear, brake lines for leaks and that levers are operating the brakes correctly.
Test steering turns freely, throttle, brake levers and shifters operate smoothly.
Check your horn operates.
7. PPE
Thoroughly inspect your bike kit – it can degrade over time when stored.
Inspect helmet, gloves, boots for condition, signs of degradation or expiry dates.
Remember – your kit could save your life in the event of a collision.
8. Other checks
Whilst this may seem obvious, quickly check every part of your bike for signs of damage.
What’s out of place? Are there any signs of excessive wear or visible damage where they shouldn’t be?
Lube cables and pivots.
Examine the frame and crash protection.
9. Your first ride
There’s a new and exciting feeling when you first get back on your bike after winter, to ride again and enjoy the sense of freedom. However, can you honestly say that your skills are as polished as when you last rode several months ago?
No matter how good you are, you can always improve. So, we are urging bikers to consider further skills training to improve your riding via schemes such as BikeSafe and Biker Down Motorcycle Safety – North Wales Fire And Rescue Service.
You might also like to read: Op Apex: Motorcycle Safety Campaign 2025
