3.3 Pre-Trip Inspections and Maintenance

3.3 Pre-Trip Inspections and Maintenance

Unlike a passenger car, a mechanical failure on a motorcycle can easily lead to a catastrophic crash. With only two contact points on the road, issues like a sudden tire blowout, a stuck throttle, or a front fork seal leak dripping oil onto the brake rotors pose an immediate threat to the rider's safety. For this reason, Alberta's Class 6 licensing standards place a heavy emphasis on a rider's ability to inspect their vehicle before every ride. The standard protocol for this inspection is the T-CLOCS checklist, developed by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and taught throughout Canada.

The T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist

The acronym T-CLOCS breaks the motorcycle down into six logical inspection areas:

1. T - Tires and Wheels

Tires are a motorcycle's only connection to the road.

• Tires: Check tire pressure (PSI) using a gauge when the tires are cold. Incorrect tire pressure affects handling, cornering traction, and tire life. Inspect the tread for wear and ensure it meets the legal minimum depth (typically 1.6 mm, though replacing at 2.0 mm is recommended). Look for cracks, dry rot, bulges, or embedded objects (like nails).
• Wheels: Check for bent rims, cracks, or loose spokes. Roll the bike forward to check the wheel bearings for any play or noise.

2. C - Controls

Controls must operate smoothly and return to their default positions without binding.

• Levers and Pedals: Test the front brake lever and clutch lever. Check for proper free play (usually 10 to 15 mm). Ensure the rear brake pedal and gear shifter are securely attached.
• Cables: Inspect control cables for fraying, kinks, or stiffness. Frayed cables can snap under pressure, leading to an immediate loss of control.
• Throttle: Twist the throttle and release it; it must snap closed quickly and completely in all steering positions (turned fully left, straight, and fully right).

3. L - Lights and Electrics

Electric systems are essential for the rider's ability to see and be seen.

• Headlight: Verify both high and low beams function. Remember, the headlight must remain on while riding in Alberta.
• Brake Lights: Test that the brake light illuminates when applying the front brake lever and when pressing the rear brake pedal. Check both independently.
• Turn Signals: Turn on the left and right signals, checking both front and rear lights.
• Horn: Test the horn to ensure it is fully operational and loud enough to warn other drivers.
• Mirrors: Clean the mirrors and verify they are securely mounted.

4. O - Oils and Other Fluids

Fluid levels must be checked regularly, as motorcycles run at higher RPMs and temperatures than cars.

• Engine Oil: Check the oil level with the motorcycle resting upright on level ground (do not check it on the side stand). Use the sight glass or dipstick. Dark, black oil indicates it is time for an oil change.
• Brake Fluid: Check the reservoirs on the handlebars (front) and near the rear frame (rear). The fluid should be translucent amber. Dark or cloudy fluid indicates moisture contamination and must be flushed.
• Coolant: For liquid-cooled engines, check the coolant reservoir.
• Leaks: Look underneath the motorcycle for puddles or fresh wet spots indicating oil, coolant, or fuel leaks.

5. C - Chassis

The chassis is the structural backbone of the motorcycle.

• Frame: Inspect the frame for cracks or paint flaking, which can indicate structural stress.
• Suspension: Press down on the front handlebars to test the front forks. They should compress and rebound smoothly. Inspect the fork stanchions for oil rings; leaking fork seals can drip oil onto the front brake calipers, destroying stopping power.
• Drive System: Inspect the primary drive mechanism.
  • Chain: Check the drive chain's tension (slack should be within manufacturer specifications, typically 25 to 35 mm at the tightest point) and lubricate it every 500 to 800 km. Look for worn, hook-shaped sprocket teeth.
  • Belt: Check the drive belt for cracks, fraying, or missing teeth.
  • Shift: Check the shaft drive housing for gear oil leaks.

6. S - Stands

• Side and Center Stands: Test the return springs on both stands. The stands must retract fully and remain held tightly against the frame. A weak spring can allow a stand to swing down while riding, which can catch the asphalt during a left-hand turn and cause a severe crash.

Routine Maintenance and Drive System Adjustment

Beyond daily pre-ride checks, riders must perform routine maintenance to keep the motorcycle safe. Chain adjustment is a common task. As a chain wears, it stretches. If the chain is too loose, it can slip off the sprockets and lock the rear wheel; if it is too tight, it will accelerate wear on the transmission bearings and sprockets. Adjust the chain slack using the axle adjusters on both sides of the swingarm, ensuring that both sides are adjusted equally to keep the rear wheel properly aligned.

Winterization and Storage Prep

Because of Alberta’s severe winter climate, many riders must store their motorcycles for several months. Proper winterization prevents expensive mechanical damage:

1. Fuel System: Fill the fuel tank completely and add a fuel stabilizer. A full tank prevents moisture from condensing on the inside walls, which causes rust. Run the engine for 5 minutes to distribute the stabilized fuel through the fuel injectors or carburetor.
2. Battery Care: Remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place, or connect it to a smart maintenance charger (battery tender). A battery left on a motorcycle in freezing temperatures will discharge, and the electrolyte can freeze and crack the battery case.
3. Engine Oil: Change the engine oil and filter before storage. Used oil contains acidic combustion byproducts that can corrode engine components over winter.
4. Tires: Inflate the tires to their recommended pressure. If possible, use stands to lift the tires off the cold concrete floor, or place wood blocks under them to prevent flat-spotting.

T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Checklist Summary