Spring is rife with motorcycle riding slip-ups

Apr 08, 2010

Special to the Star

I’m not your mother but you’re getting a lecture anyway.

The Leafs have been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, which means that riding season is upon us.

Even though our early spring weather has been spectacular, don’t get lulled into a false sense of security. I know we’re all rarin’ to go but let’s just take a small step backward and make sure everything is hunky-dory before we hit the road.

If last year’s gas is still in the bike, you may have a problem unless you used fuel stabilizer. After it sits for a while, gasoline has less octane than fruit cocktail and the sulphur-based life forms now occupying your fuel system will make it difficult, if not impossible, for the engine to start.

But, if you properly stored your motorcycle last fall, all you have to do is reinstall the fully charged battery, add some fresh fuel and go. Right?

Almost. First, give your baby a good scrubbing. Start at the front and work towards the back, performing a thorough visual inspection on all components. Double check all lights, look for fluid leaks, cracked hoses, worn parts and eyeball the brake pads in the caliper to make sure there’s ample thickness.

Now, it’s time for “wax on, wax off, Daniel-san.” This early in the season, there is still a lot of sand and salt residue on the roads and a good coat of wax will protect painted and chromed surfaces.

You should’ve changed the oil and filter before parking the bike for the winter, but if you didn’t, run the engine for a while to get the oil good and hot and do it now. Lube the cables and all pivot points as everything will work better, last longer and have a lighter, more progressive feel. Plus, it’s safer as nothing is going to bind at an inopportune moment.

If your bike is chain drive, lube and adjust the chain and check the sprockets for wear. If it’s got a belt, inspect for wear, broken teeth or cracks and (this should be part of your weekly “pre-flight” ritual), inspect the tires for wear, cracks or trouble spots and set tire pressures.

Once Trusty Steed is good to go, you’ve got to get yourself into riding mode as well. Keep the first few rides short until all riding muscles are back in shape — riding the couch for the winter isn’t the same.

Take it easy in the corners. We haven’t had much rain this spring and the winter’s residue of salt, sand and accumulated road grunge is still present. Plus, the pavement will still be cold and tires just won’t have the traction they will when it gets warmer.

Even though their cellphones have been taken away, our friends in the cages will still be juggling a large mocha cappuccino and blueberry muffin, so don’t take it for granted that you’ll be on their radar. They aren’t aware of us at the best of times and we haven’t been visible for a few months, so be on red alert in high-risk areas — which is any place but your driveway.

Intersections are ground zero for most serious car/motorcycle collisions and I don’t have to tell you who comes out second best. If you can’t see oncoming traffic around someone in the left turn lane, then oncoming traffic can’t see you either. Slow down, ease over to the right part of the lane, and cover the brake lever just in case.

Your riding skills will be rusty after the winter’s layoff so leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front, use the brakes gently and early, and strive for smoothness on all controls. Ease back into midsummer form gradually and all will be well with the world again.

Wind chill plays a role once you’re mobile so wear layers and plug in the electric clothes if you’ve got ‘em. Daytime temps have been in the 20s but it drops to near freezing after dark so watch for any moisture on the road that could turn icy.

Let’s hope the great weather is here to stay. Ride often and ride safely.

Spring Motorcycle Show

If you needed any more confirmation that spring is here, the Spring Motorcycle show takes place today and tomorrow at the International Center.

While it’s not as huge as the January Supershow, this year, the spring show has expanded into three halls, with one dedicated to custom bikes competing for $20,000 in prizes.

Lots of dealers are confirmed with 2010 models; there will be over 30 clubs and organizations, information on rider training, a huge used bike area and it’s the last chance for great deals on riding apparel and accessories before the riding season gets into top gear.

Admission is $15 for adults, $5 for youths under 12 and children under 6 are free. Visit supershowevents.com for more information and a printable $2 off discount coupon.