Motorcycle coach demonstrating pre-ride checks

Essential pre-ride checks for motorcyclists

Written by: Territory Motorcycle Training

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Time to read 3 min

Before hitting the road, ensuring your motorcycle is in top condition is essential for both safety and performance. Pre-ride checks are a simple step to prevent unexpected issues on the road. Here’s a comprehensive guide, including a checklist at the end, to help you stay safe and enjoy every ride with confidence.

Why Pre-Ride Checks Matter


Motorcycles are complex machines, and even minor mechanical issues can lead to significant problems on the road. Performing pre-ride checks allows you to:

  1. Ensure Safety: Identify and address potential hazards before they become critical.

  2. Prevent Breakdowns: Catch small issues early, avoiding costly repairs or breakdowns.

  3. Enhance Performance: Optimise your bike’s handling, braking, and acceleration.

  4. Boost Confidence: Ride knowing your motorcycle is road-ready.


Whether you’re commuting, touring, or heading to the track, pre-ride checks are a non-negotiable part of responsible motorcycling.


Motorcycle mechanic conducting pre ride checks on the motorbike
Pre-ride checks should be done before every ride. Once you learn, it won't take more than a few minutes.

Essential pre-ride motorcycle checks


Use our checklist before each ride to ensure your motorcycle is safe and ready to perform:

1. Tyres and Wheels

  • Tyre Pressure: Check that both tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

  • Tread Depth: Inspect for adequate tread depth and ensure there’s no uneven wear.

  • Damage: Look for cuts, cracks, or embedded debris in the tyres.

  • Wheel Condition: Ensure the rims are free from dents or damage.

Female motorcycle mechanic checking tyre pressures using a tyre gauge for pre-ride daily checks

Visually inspect and feel your tyres before every ride. Use a tyre pressure gauge weekly.

2. Brakes

  • Brake Pads: Check for sufficient thickness on both front and rear pads.

  • Brake Fluid: Inspect the fluid level and ensure it’s within the recommended range.

  • Levers: Test the front and rear brake levers for proper resistance and smooth operation.

Motorcycle disc break for pre-ride daily check

Disc brakes require regular inspection of the brake pads, discs, caliper and lines.

3. Controls

  • Throttle: Ensure the throttle moves smoothly and snaps back when released.

  • Clutch Lever: Test for smooth engagement and appropriate free play.

  • Cables and Hoses: Inspect for fraying, kinks, or leaks.

Mototcycle mechanic rider checking lever position on motorcycle in darwin mechanical class

4. Lights and Electronics

  • Headlights: Verify that both high and low beams are functioning.

  • Turn Signals: Check all indicators for proper operation.

  • Brake Light: Ensure the brake light activates with both the front and rear brakes.

  • Horn: Test the horn to ensure it’s audible.

Motorcycle headlight and electric check for pre-ride check on vintage motorcycle

Check your daytime running light, high/low beams, indicators and brake lights.

5. Fluids

  • Oil Level: Check the oil level using the dipstick or sight glass and top up if necessary.

  • Coolant: Inspect the coolant level and ensure it’s within the recommended range.

  • Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel for your planned journey.

Motorcycle being filled up with unleaded fuel

Check all your fluids, including fuel, before every ride. Plan your fuel stops before your ride, taking conditions such as headwinds into account.

6. Chain and Drivetrain

  • Tension: Check the chain for proper tension, referring to the manufacturer’s specifications.

  • Lubrication: Ensure the chain is clean and adequately lubricated.

  • Sprockets: Inspect for wear or damage on both the front and rear sprockets.

Motorycle rider cleaning and lubricating the chain in Darwin workshop

Clean and lubricate your chain. Check the tension and condition regularly.

7. Suspension

  • Condition: Look for leaks around the front forks and rear shock absorber.

  • Settings: Ensure suspension settings are appropriate for your load and riding style.

motorcycle forks suspension checking mechanical class darwin
Check your fork seals for any leaking oil.

8. Frame and Fasteners

  • Frame: Inspect for cracks, rust, or other structural issues.

  • Fasteners: Check that bolts, nuts, and screws are secure.

A female motorcycle mechanic is checking her motorbike in a darwin workshop northern territory

Check the front forks, frame and side stand. It is a great time to do your motorcycle checks when you are washing your bike or filling up with fuel.

9. Sidestand and Center Stand

  • Operation: Ensure the stand moves smoothly and locks securely in place.

  • Springs: Check that the springs are intact and provide adequate tension.

mechanical maintenance servicing of motorcycle side stand at a class in darwin northern territory
Check your motorcycle side stand for play, loose bolts or spring damage.

Additional Tips for Pre-Ride Checks

  • Use Your Senses: Listen for unusual noises, feel for vibrations, and watch for anything out of the ordinary during your checks.

  • Keep a Toolkit: Carry basic tools and supplies, like a tire pressure gauge, chain lube, and a multitool, for quick adjustments.

  • Regular Maintenance: Combine pre-ride checks with regular maintenance to keep your bike in peak condition.

  • Pre-ride checks typically take 5-10 minutes once you’re familiar with the process. This small time investment can save you from significant risks and ensure a safer, smoother ride.

motorcycle mechanical class in darwin student working with tools to fix motorbike
Always be sure to carry emergency tools on your motorcycle. Many bikes come with a stock set of tools for emergencies.

Motorcycle pre-ride checklist

Motorcycle fluids

Oil level

Fuel

Coolant

Brake and clutch fluid (if hydraulic brakes)

Motorcycle electrics

Headlight (high/low beam) and daytime running light

Indicators

Brake lights

Dash

Warning lights

Motorcycle tyre and wheel assembly

Tyre pressure

Tyre tread and condition

Rim condition (and spokes if present)

Chain condition, lubrication and tension

Sprocket condition

Brake pads

Brake lines

Motorcycle controls

Clutch freeplay

Throttle return

Motorcycle compliance

Registration

L or P plate (if relevant)

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