4.3 Official-Handbook Pre-Ride Inspection
Key Takeaways
- Use the motorcycle manufacturer's instructions together with the Official MTO Motorcycle Handbook's pre-ride checks.
- Check tires cold for pressure, tread, cuts, cracks, bulges, and embedded objects.
- Confirm throttle, clutch, steering, lights, horn, mirrors, cables, and controls work correctly.
- Test front and rear brakes separately and confirm each holds the motorcycle.
- Inspect fluid levels, leaks, fasteners, drive components, and stands as applicable to the motorcycle.
Pre-Ride Inspection From the Ontario Handbook
A motorcycle has little tolerance for tire, brake, steering, or control failure. Before riding, inspect the machine using the Official MTO Motorcycle Handbook and the manufacturer's manual for the specific model. This guide does not label a third-party training acronym as an official MTO protocol.
Tires and Wheels
Check tire pressure while the tires are cold and use the manufacturer's specified pressure. Look for adequate tread, uneven wear, cuts, cracks, bulges, and embedded objects. Inspect wheels and spokes, if fitted, for visible damage or looseness. Never rely on appearance alone for pressure; use a suitable gauge.
Controls, Steering, Lights, and Mirrors
Turn the handlebars through their range and confirm unobstructed steering. The throttle should move freely and return when released. Check the clutch and other cables for damage and correct operation. Confirm the headlight, high and low beams, tail and brake lights, turn signals, instrument indicators, and horn work. Clean and adjust mirrors before moving.
Brakes
Apply the front and rear brakes separately while stationary and confirm that each holds the motorcycle. Controls should feel firm and operate smoothly. Investigate leaks, excessive travel, or abnormal feel before riding.
Fluids, Drive, Fasteners, and Stands
Check fuel and the fluid levels applicable to the motorcycle, and look beneath and around the machine for leaks. Inspect the chain, belt, or shaft drive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Look for loose or missing fasteners and visible frame or suspension damage. Confirm the side or centre stand retracts and is secure.
Complete any model-specific checks in the owner's manual. If a safety-critical item is damaged or uncertain, do not ride until it is corrected.
Which sources should control a pre-ride inspection for a specific motorcycle?
How should the front and rear brakes be checked before riding?