Remember the word BEST to check things in order.
The Clutch and Accelerator should also be checked for smooth operation.
The Chain (C), Oil (O) and Petrol (P), (COP) should also be checked regularly and prior to any lengthy journeys.
BRAKES
Push the bike forward and apply the front brake firmly using all the fingers. First make sure the bike stops, then note how close the lever comes to touching the handlebar grip. It should not come past parallel to the handlebar. If it touches the handlebar then you are not getting the full leverage applied to the brake, and you must adjust the brakes accordingly.
On cable operated brakes this would involve turning a screw thread either at the hand-lever or at the wheel end of the cable. If the hand-lever still moves past parallel, then maybe the cable has been stretched too much or the brake shoes need replacing.
On a Hydraulic system there is usually some adjustment to the brake lever position, also either the brake fluid reservoir would need topping up, maybe even bleeding the brake lines of any air, or it's time to change the pads.
Whilst you have the brake applied, if it's cable operated check the ends of the cable for any frayed wires and replace it even if there is only one strand loose. With hydraulic systems, have a good look around for leaks whilst the pipes are under pressure, and don't forget to check that brake fluid reservoir's level.
Release the brake and push the motorcycle backwards and forwards to make sure the brakes are not catching.
Then go through the same procedure for the rear brake, which will be either hydraulic - same principle as the front, or rod operated which would involve turning a screw thread similar to the cable operated system. This time you will have to gauge how far the brake pedal travels, and generally this should only be about an inch but check your bikes handbook to make certain.
ELECTRICS
This involves making sure all the lights work and also the horn. Try to get into a set pattern for checking the lights, as this will make it quicker in the future. I suggest checking:
Indicators. Left - front and rear. Right - front and rear
Headlights. Front - Side (or Parking) light, Dipped beam, Full beam. Rear (Tail) light.
Brake light. Using the Hand lever and the Foot lever.
Horn.
If just one light doesn't come on, then first check the lamp bulb and if it is okay then look for bad connections, particularly poor and corroded earth points.
If no lights come on, first start the engine then test them again, if that works then you will have to check your battery. If you're still in the dark, then start checking fuses.
STEERING
A simple check of the steering Head stock bearings should always be done. This involves raising the front wheel in the air and gently nudging the handlebar from side to side (if it's on a centrestand push down on the rear seat, on a side stand you will have to carefully tip the bike). Apart from some infringement from any cables, there should be a nice smooth movement without any grinding noises. Wear is mostly found with the handlebars in the straight-ahead position, in which case you will see, or feel it stick at that point.
TYRES
Poorly maintained tyres can cause Reduced grip, Loss of stability and Increased wear. The things you should check include:
- Tread. The law requires a motorbike tyre to have at least 1mm of tread, over at least 3/4 of the breadth of the tyre, and around the full circumference of that tyre, with visible tread on the outside of that 3/4 band. (Whilst checking the tread look out for any objects stuck into it e.g. stones, glass, nails.... Uneven tread wear also needs to be investigated) A moped only requires visible tread.
- Sidewall. The sidewalls should have no cuts, blebs or abrasions in them. The fitting line (a thin rubber line near to the inside rim) should be parallel to the wheel rim all the way around, if it isn't then the tyre has been fitted off-centre.
- Pressure. Check when the tyres are cold. Refer to your machines handbook for the exact pressures which you should check with a pressure gauge at least weekly, but for the basic check a quick feel/press should suffice.