One thing I forgot is, clean your bike and learn about its specifications and details for the POWDDERS check. Probably not for the first session.
Enjoy
Well - that just kicked the fun out of it................
(had to look it up....)
P.O.W.D.D.E.R.S (BIKE CHECKS)
P – PETROL
Check by opening the filler cap.
O – OIL
(All types). Sump and gear oil should be checked either at the oil window or with the dip stick, the level of brake and clutch reservoirs should be checked and on two stroke machines don’t forget the two stroke tank- never rely on the warning light, you don’t want a seized engine.
W – WATER
Check your coolant level (when the bike is cold) and make sure you have anti freeze over the winter.
D – DRIVECHAIN
(Adjusted and oiled) and check the condition of drive chains, sprockets, shafts, etc. Chain adjustment should be checked and adjusted if required to your handbook specification, and sprocket teeth should not show signs of hooking. An over tight chain will increase damage to your final drive bearing which will be a costly job and a loose chain will cause excessive wear and increase the danger of the chain coming off.
D – DAMAGE
Relates to any danger that may be present due to general damage on the bike. Check all round bike.
E – ELECTRICS
(All switches). Do all the lights work as they should? Check them all to be sure. Consider carrying spare bulbs and fuses.
R – RUBBER & REFLECTORS
(Tyres: tread and inflation- check the bikes handbook) and Reflectors (mirrors). Check your tyre condition, not just the tread, the side walls are just as important. Check your mirrors are correctly positioned before you move off. Remember to check all rubber components on the bike- footrests and brake hoses included.
S – SUSPENSION & STOPPING
(Check the bike’s handbook) and Stopping (brakes) should be checked to ensure that it is suitably set for the journey e.g. lone rider, with pillion, or with luggage. A moving brake test should be carried out at low speed first checking that you don’t have anyone behind you. Better to find out your brakes don’t work outside your house than at a junction