Archive for the ‘motorcycle safety’ Category

Motorcycle Recall November 2025: Kawasaki DO NOT RIDE, Yamaha DO NOT RIDE

Posted: December 1, 2025 in commerical driving, custom motorcycle, Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V798000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2024-2026 Ninja ZX-6R, ZX-6R KRT Edition, ZX-6R KRT 40th Anniversary Edition ABS, ZX-6R ABS, and ZX-6R KRT Edition ABS motorcycles. The motorcycles may lose engine power during operation due to seizure of a metal crankshaft bushing.

Remedy Owners are advised not to ride their motorcycles until the repair has been completed. The remedy is currently under development. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Motorcycles in this recall that were previously repaired under recall 25V376 will need to have the new remedy performed, once available. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at (855) 878-4217.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V778000

Manufacturer Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Yamaha Motor Company, Ltd. (Yamaha) is recalling certain 2018-2022 XMAX scooters. The camshaft retainer bolt may loosen and not properly secure the camshaft, resulting in an engine stall.

Remedy Owners are advised not to ride their scooter until the remedy has been completed. Dealers will install a new camshaft plate kit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 20, 2025. Owners may contact Yamaha’s customer service at 1-800-962-7926. Yamaha’s number for this recall is 990184. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 24, 2025.

*****

RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

9 Essential Motorcycle Winter Storage Tips to Keep Your Bike Ready for Spring

Posted: October 28, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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winter motorcycle preparation and storage

As riding season winds down—depending on your tolerance for cold fingers and frosty mornings—it’s time to think about winterizing your motorcycle.

There are thousands of tips out there, from the practical to the downright quirky (teaspoon of oil in the cylinders, anyone?).

But if you want to keep your bike in top shape for spring, here are my 9 must-do steps. Why 9? Because everyone does 10, and 11 is just too much work!

1. Stabilize the fuel or drain the tank. 

Modern gasoline, especially the ethanol-blended stuff, doesn’t age well. Some folks swear by draining the tank and carb, but I’m not convinced you can ever get every drop out.

My method: fill the tank, add a quality fuel stabilizer, and run the engine for at least 15 minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system. Top off the tank afterward to minimize air (and moisture) inside.

2. Change your oil.   

Do this as close to your last ride as possible. If you’re a DIYer, consider changing the oil right after running the stabilized fuel through.

Fresh oil removes sludge and contaminants that could oxidize and cause damage during storage. Run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the new oil.

3. Prepare and Protect the Battery. 

Most motorcycle batteries are lead-acid and should be kept under a constant charge to maintain their life. Be aware there is a difference between a battery tender and a tickle charger.

A battery tender is a specialized charger that has special circuits to prevent overcharging your battery. You can use a trickle charger but check the instructions carefully; many cannot be used on your battery for more than 30 minutes each day.

If your motorcycle is stored where freezing temperatures will likely occur, consider removing the battery and placing it in a warm dry place. You will still need to keep it charged but the cold will have less effect on the life of the battery.

4. Check your anti-freeze.

Yes, Harley riders, this means you too! Make sure your coolant is at the right level and type for your bike. Whether it’s light-colored or clear, it’s time to change it.

DIYers: don’t forget to “bleed” the system to remove air pockets—nothing ruins the first ride of spring like an overheated engine.

5. Clean your bike. 

Whether you’re a clean freak or a once-a-year washer, now’s the time to get rid of all that road grime, salt, and bug guts.

Corrosive crud left on metal surfaces can do real damage over the winter. If you have a chain, clean it now too.

6. Wax, polish and lubricate. 

After the good cleaning I think it is important to put a nice coat of polish on the paint and chrome. This will help protect the surface from any condensation that might occur during storage. 

Lubricate the chain as described in your owner’s manual.

Lube all moving parts such as cables and your side stand pivot.

Use a metal protectant spray on the underside of the frame and drivetrain, I prefer to spray it on a rag and wipe it on that way I can also get some of the dirt I missed while cleaning the bike.

7. Put a sock in it. 

When I was a kid, I was helping a friend start his bike in the spring and shortly after starting we heard a lot of rattling in the exhaust. A few moments later out shot a handful of lightly roosted acorns that some chipmunk had hidden there.

Depending on where you are storing your motorcycle, cover your exhausts or insert exhaust plugs to protect yourself from critters.

8. Check your Tires. 

At a minimum, make sure your tires are properly inflated.

Some folks recommend letting a little air out to prevent condensation, but you’ll need to reinflate before riding.

There’s debate about whether to get the tires off the ground to avoid flat spots—some manufacturers (like Harley-Davidson) don’t recommend it, as it can stress the suspension. Check your owner’s manual for guidance.

9. Cover your motorcycle. 

Even if you’re storing your bike indoors, use a breathable cover—never a plastic tarp. You want to keep dust and moisture off but let air circulate to prevent rust.

By following these nine essential motorcycle winter storage tips, you’ll protect your bike from costly damage and ensure a smooth transition back to the road when spring arrives.

Regular motorcycle maintenance isn’t just about keeping your ride looking good—it’s about safety, reliability, and getting the most out of every mile. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to motorcycle care, prepping your bike for winter means you’ll be ready for those first warm days and epic spring riding adventures.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recall September 2025: KTM, Husqvarna, Harley Davidson

Posted: September 29, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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recall list for ijustwant2ride.com

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others.

Also, this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V598000

Manufacturer KTM North America, Inc.

Components VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Summary KTM North America, Inc. is recalling certain 2022-2023 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401, Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, and 2022-2024 KTM 390 Adventure motorcycles. Water could enter the throttle (e-throttle) control unit and cause it to fail, resulting in loss of drive power.

Remedy KTM and Husqvarna dealers will inspect and replace the e-throttle control, free of charge. KTM has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KTM customer service at 1-888-985-6090.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V590000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components STEERING

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain RH1250S (Sportster S) motorcycles. The upper triple clamp may fracture.

Remedy Dealers will replace the upper triple clamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 29, 2025. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0190.

*****

RIDE ON, RIDE SAFE

Motorcycle News: Banned from Switzerland and MotoGP goes Bagger

Posted: September 2, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, Motorcycle racing, motorcycle safety
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What You Need to Know: Motorcycle Rider Banned from Switzerland

The Gotthard Strassentunnel in Switzerland is a 10-mile (17 km) tunnel with a strict speed limit and a no-passing, double line for its entire length. It also has numerous cameras to ensure the police are aware of any violations.

A British motorcycle rider has been issued 47 tickets for passing 47 vehicles in the tunnel.  The fine for passing in the tunnel is $330 (270 Euro).  This guy now owes $12,700 in fines for this sprint through the tunnel.

The rider now has a lifetime ban from riding in Switzerland.

My Take

I have never been to Switzerland, but even I know that they are a “particular” people who obey and enforce their rules. That is neither good nor bad; it is just the way it is. So, you should know that and follow the adage of “When in Rome.”

*****

What You Need to Know: Harley-Davidson Bagger MotoGP World Cup

It has now been officially introduced at Austria’s iconic Red Bull Ring that a six-round Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup series will debut in 2026. Additionally, the schedule for the six-race series has been released:

          Circuit of the Americas, USA – March 27-29

          Mugello, Italy – May 29-31

          Assen, Netherlands – June 26-28

          Silverstone, UK – August 7-9

          Aragon, Spain – August 28-30

          Red Bull Ring, Austria – September 18-20

Chief Sporting Officer of MotoGP, Carlos Ezpeleta stated “We’re always looking for ways to innovate and expand, both at the track for our record crowds as we continue our evolution, and to grow the reach of the sport even further – staying faithful to what fans love about MotoGP but finding ways to connect with new audiences.”

Prospective teams, riders, and sponsors are now invited to engage with the series as preparations accelerate for the 2026 debut season.

My Take: “Haters are gonna Hate”. Even if they end up enjoying the spectacle of 600-pound motorcycles racing bar to bar, they will never admit it to anyone except themselves late at night while staring at ceiling.

I for one really enjoy the bagger racing that is part of MotoAmerica, as well as the Bagger Racing League.

*****

Ride on, Ride safe

Motorcycle Recalls July 2025: BMW, Zero, Can Am, Honda

Posted: July 29, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V480000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components COMMUNICATION

Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 F 900 GS, F 800 GS, R 1300 GS Adventure, R 1300 GS, S 1000 RR, S 1000 R, and K 1600 GT vehicles equipped with the optional emergency call system. The emergency call system (eCall) may have been deactivated due to a software programming error.

Remedy: The electronic control unit software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed September 12, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V459000

Manufacturer Zero Motorcycles Inc.

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain 2024 DSR/X, DS, DSR, and DSRP motorcycles. The front brake hose may be twisted and become damaged, which can cause a brake fluid leak and a loss of brake pressure.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and replace the hose as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero’s number for this recall is SV-RCL-025-017

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V448000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (BRP) is recalling certain 2025 Can-Am Canyon motorcycles. On these motorcycles, the drive belt lower idler support will fail and possibly cause a belt failure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new drive belt lower Idler support, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222. The manufacturer number for this recall is Bulletin 2025-4.

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V435000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components TIRES

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2024 Honda NC750X motorcycles. Due to an improper manufacturing process, the inner structure of the front tire may loosen and unravel, which can result in a loss of vehicle handling and control. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 119, “New Pneumatic Tires – Other Than Passenger Cars.”

Remedy Dealers will replace the front tire, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 25, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KS4.

*****  

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recalls June 2025: Kawasaki “Do Not Ride”, 82K Harley Davidsons, 19K Helmets, Honda

Posted: June 28, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V376000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Ninja ZX-6R motorcycles. The motorcycles may lose engine power during operation due to seizure of a metal crankshaft bushing.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to ride their motorcycles until the repair has been completed. The #5 metal crankshaft bushing must be inspected on all eligible units already in operation. If there is no abnormality with or damage to the bushing, the bolts holding the crankshaft together in the crank case must be re-tightened with proper torque. If there is any abnormality with or damage to the bushing, the parts must be replaced and the crankshaft properly tightened, or the engine must be otherwise repaired or replaced. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V375000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SUSPENSION

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles. The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 16, 2025. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0188. Some of the vehicles included in this recall were previously repaired under recall 23V591, and will need to have the new remedy completed.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E041000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SUSPENSION

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain Tail Rear Shock Absorbers (part number 54000294) and Low Rear Suspension Shock Absorbers (part number 54000134) designed to fit certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles. The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new bracket, free of charge. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0189.

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E040000

Manufacturer Micro DOT Helmet Co.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Micro DOT Helmet Co. (Micro DOT) is recalling certain Blister and Twister original helmets, sizes XXS – XXL. The helmets may lack proper penetration protection. As such, these helmets fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.”

Remedy Micro DOT will replace the helmets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. Owners may contact Micro DOT customer service at 1-817-478-0497.

*****   

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V363000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2025 BJ230A (W230 ABS) motorcycles. The electrical ground connection between the battery and frame may become unstable and result in an engine stall.

Remedy KMC will replace the battery harness and secure the ground connection, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 12, 2025. KMC’s number for this recall is MC25-06.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V358000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2024 XL750, 2025 CMX1100, and CRF1100 motorcycles. The crankcase sealing bolt may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the engine to leak oil onto the rear tire.

Remedy Dealers will replace the crankcase sealing bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 25, 2025. Owners may contact Honda’s customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KS2.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Recalls May 2025: Dainese Helmets, Can-Am

Posted: May 28, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E031000

Manufacturer Dainese S.p.A.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Dainese S.p.A. (Dainese) is recalling certain AGV DOT Tour modular helmets with model number E2206. The chin guard plate may break, allowing the helmet to loosen or detach during a crash.

Remedy Dainese will repair the chin guard plates, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 2, 2025. Owners may contact Dainese customer service at 1-855-327-5639.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V275000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is recalling certain 2025 Can-Am Origin and Pulse electric motorcycles. The breather valve may not seal properly and allow moisture or water to enter the high voltage battery.

Remedy Dealers will install a new protection plate or replace the breather valve if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2025. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

Maintain Your Motorcycle Helmet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted: April 9, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle safety
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helmets

Your motorcycle helmet is your most important piece of equipment so keeping it clean is important.  Not just from an appearance perspective but as a method to ensure it is still in good working condition.

Also, April is Motorcycle Helmet Awareness month so now is a good time to do the work!

While you are cleaning your helmet look for cracks in the shell, that the hard foam is intact and in good condition (this is the part that does most of the work to protect your head) and all the other parts are in good order.  

Before you start… read your owner’s manual on cleaning your specific motorcycle helmet.

1 – Take either a microfiber or paper towels, soaked in warm water and lay across the helmet and visor.  This will moisten any hard dried bugs or grime that might scratch the finish if you first went to scrubbing or rubbing.  Leave the towels on for about 10 minutes and then gently remove the now softer bugs/grime. Remove the visor before step 2.

2 – After the bugs/grime are soft use warm soapy water to clean the shell fully. Rinse, dry and admire your clean exterior.

3 – The visor needs additional attention. The warm towels may have helped get rid of the road grime, but your visor needs special attention. DO NOT use any products that have acid or ammonia! Even products with citric acid can damage the visor (personal experience). Most glass cleaners have some form of acid or ammonia so avoid them as well. Warm soapy water and microfiber cloth is the best way to safely clean your visor.

4 – Make sure you clean out the visor mechanism. Keeping the mechanism clean will help make sure it works as designed.

5 – Clean the sun visor in the same manner you cleaned the visor. No ammonia or acid-based cleaners!

6 – Now that the outside of your helmet is clean how about the inside? MOST helmets allow you to remove the interior padding. Look at your instructions and pull the lining out. Some motorcycle helmet manufacturers allow you to put the padding in a washing machine, others recommend hand cleaning in warm soapy water. If you use the by hand method, I recommend a baby shampoo.

7 – If your helmet’s padding is not removable follow the instructions your helmet manufacturer provided.  BUT, in my opinion, dunking the entire helmet into soapy water is not the way to go. It takes forever to dry; it can mildew, and I am always unsure if it may have damaged the underlying foam. My suggestion is to use a motorcycle helmet sanitizing spray.

8 –Check the vents to make sure they are clean and open.  A shot of compressed air, from the inside, might dislodge dried road grimes and bugs.

9 – Put it back together, following the instructions if you still have them. 😊

Ride On, Ride Safe

Essential Annual Motorcycle Helmet Safety Checks

Posted: April 6, 2025 in Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety
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At least once a year you should check your helmet to make sure everything is right and correct.  As April is Motorcycle Helmet Safety month, now is a good time to do those checks.

What are the things you need to check?  Here are the minimum items you should check:

  • Is the shell in one piece? No cracks or splits?
  • Are the straps and connectors in good shape, no adverse wear or tear?
  • The internal padding is connected and stays in place?
  • Remove the padding and check the foam.  Is it dented or have cracks?
  • While looking at the foam, most companies place a sticker printed with the helmet’s birthday. Is it over 5 years old? See below for some discussion on this item.
  • Does the rest of the internals look in good operating condition?
  • Check the visor for damage that might obscure your vision can you see clearly?
  • Are the screws or other visor attachments tight?
  • Make sure that insects/creatures are not living in your helmet. Will be VERY interesting if you put your helmet on with some bugs living inside?

Checklist item 5 is the 5-year rule.  Most manufactures recommend that after 5 years you replace your helmet.  While the cynical among us will cite the “more money” theory of why they want it replaced there is evidence that the foam lining (the part that does most of the work in a crash) does deteriorate over time. It is your head, so it is your decision whether to replace or not if everything looks good.

Do you have any additional tips or recommendations on making sure your motorcycle helmet is good for another riding season?

Essential Motorcycle Prep for Spring Riding

Posted: March 5, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety, motorcycle touring
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Spring is here, and your motorcycle is beckoning you to hit the open road.

Before you embark on your two-wheeled adventures, take a moment to prepare your bike for the riding season. While the T-CLOCS (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, and Stands) inspection is essential, let’s delve into some often-overlooked tasks:

  1. Check Your Gear:
    • Retrieve your riding gear from storage. It might have been sitting in your saddlebag for months.
    • Clean your gear thoroughly. Run it through the wash or clean it by hand.
    • Apply water repellent or waterproofing for added protection.
    • Remember, rainstorms are not the preferred method of cleaning your gear!
  2. Inspect Your Helmet:
    • Your helmet deserves special attention. Start by cleaning the exterior. Those bugs from 2023 should be easy to remove by now.
    • Remove and clean the interior padding following the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Don’t forget to check every nook and cranny for any unwelcome guests—SPIDERS (not the Can-Am species).
  3. Evaluate and Replace Gear:
    • Take a close look at your riding gear. Are your helmet and gloves still in good condition?
    • Remember, you are responsible for your own safety. If something isn’t right, repair or replace it promptly.
  4. Give Your Motorcycle a “Colonoscopy”:
    • If you didn’t adequately prepare your bike for winter, it’s time to peek up your tailpipe.
    • Inspect all areas for leaks and ensure everything is in ship shape.
  5. Give your bike a rub down: Happy ending optional!
    • Give it a good wipe down to clean off the dust and debris that adhered to your bike over winter.
    • Now is a good time to give your motorcycle a waxing to help preserve the paint.
  6. Restock your saddlebags or backpack:
    • If you pack a first aid kit replace what you used last year or what is now expired.
    • Sunscreen and ChapStick…might want to swap them out for new.
    • That candy bar you had for an emergency snack, go ahead, and eat it now and put a new one in its place.
  7. Review the owner’s manual:
    •  Get yourself reacquainted with the bike.
  8. Check your insurance:
    •  Did you stop or reduce your insurance on the motorcycle over the winter? Give a quick call to your agent to get your insurance up to date.
  9. Remind yourself about PANIC STOPS:
    • Find an unused bit of road or parking lot, get up to speed and BRAKE HARD! Get that feeling about what you and your motorcycle will do when you must make a sudden stop.
    • Ride with a passenger? Then run this exercise with them on the motorcycle as well. It is best to know how it feels in a controlled environment before you really need to do it. OH, check your brakes before you do this to make sure they are good to go.

This is not an all-inclusive checklist or recommendations, I am sure each of you can add more items, but it can get you started for the new riding season. Remember, a well-prepped motorcycle ensures both safety and enjoyment during the riding season.

Have any additonal tips…put them in the comments!

Ride on, ride safe

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