Five checks before you saddle up

Fuel

It may seem really elementary, but hey, fuel is one of the easiest things to overlook and grinding to a halt with the tank dry is something that is irritating and embarrassing. Most bikes these days come with fairly accurate fuel gauges, so check if you have enough mojo in the tank to get you through the trip. In case your bike has one of those unreliable digital fuel gauges, don't hesitate to open the tank lid and slosh the fuel around to get an idea of how much you have left.

 

Oil

Another critical check that we ignore, thanks mostly to the ultra-efficient engines that have evolved over the years. That being said, oil consumption shoots up during long rides and checking the level remains often neglected after the sore butts. About once a week, make sure you get the dipstick out and check how much oil you have left to lubricate the engine. Not just that, also look out for the consistency and cleanliness of the oil, tacky or black oil means that you're due for a complete oil change, not just a top-up.

 

Tyre pressure

One of the most important aspects, be it grip or fuel efficiency, tyre pressure is also something that we overlook in our exuberance to get on the bike and ride. You can also get used to riding with low tyre pressure, so every other time you fuel up, also remember to take a few minutes off and get the pressure checked. Keeping it at the level recommended by manufacturers in your service manual will ensure that you get good bang for the buck, remain safe and keep the tyres in good condition.

 

Brakes

While most modern bikes come with ultra efficient hydraulic-disc brakes, a small squeeze before you set off is not a bad idea, given that you may need them to function with optimum effectiveness at any given instance on the road. Sticky drum brakes because of water inside the drum can also be detected this way, and ensure that you ride more cautiously until they dry up and ca be used properly again.

 

Electricals

A quick flick of the headlamp switch before you set off makes sure that you're not left groping in the dark once the sun goes down. Remember that finding that you have a blown bulb just as darkness falls is not funny, since replacing it in the dark is a proper task, besides making you an unsafe vehicle on the road since other drivers and riders cannot see you head on. While you're at it, also give the indicators and the horn a quick check, and fix at the earliest if you realize either of them is not functional.