Inspecting your bike after its winter hibernation: checklist
The sun is starting to shine, the temperatures are rising, and you're looking forward to getting back on your motorbike! But beware, if your bike has been stored all winter, a few post-winter checks are in order. Checklist.
What should you look out for before getting back on your bike in the spring?
After 5 or 6 months in the garage, and a harsh Luxembourg winter, the bike's essential components must be given the once over with a complete check-up:
- Battery:
Recharge the battery, which can become discharged when the bike is not used for several months. Be sure to replace it with a new battery if necessary. (Ideally you will have kept it in charge maintenance over the winter).
- Tyres:
Carefully check the condition of the tyres (cuts, wear and tear, etc.) and of course their pressure.
- Headlights and indicators:
If it is advisable to check the correct operation of the lights before taking the motorbike out on the road, a check that is all the more necessary after a few months spent in the garage.
- Fluids:
Check the oil, brake and coolant levels. Make an appointment for an oil change if necessary.
- Brakes:
Check the thickness of the brake pads to ensure that there is at least 1 mm of thickness left. Don’t hesitate to replace them a little earlier for your safety. Thinned brake pads lose their effectiveness so gradually that you may not notice. Also check that the brake discs aren’t rusty.
- Chain:
During the winter, the drive chain has probably accumulated dust, which has amalgamated with the grease. You can remove this with a cleaning spray before greasing thoroughly. Also consider treating the joint pins of the levers and pedals.
The best option: make an appointment to service your motorbike in the spring
In Luxembourg, most motorcyclists entrust their vehicles to be serviced every year and take the opportunity to schedule it for the end of winter.
“I schedule my motorbike inspection in the spring with a service just before,” explains William.
Actually, “the major manufacturers require a service every year to check the brakes, the tyres, etc.” adds Nico who rides a BMW.
This service costs around €200 to €250. A sum that is well worth investing according to Nico. “It reassures me. I know that everything has been checked: the lighting, the levels, the starter...”. This precaution allows him to leave with peace of mind for a motorbike ride along Luxembourg’s borders. A regular outing with friends that he looks forward to when the weather is fine.
How do you clean your motorbike?
A high-pressure jet is the best way to clean dirty wheels, but be careful not to use it too close to avoid scratching the chrome or the bodywork. A microfibre cloth soaked in soapy water is still the simplest and most widely used technique for cleaning the entire bodywork. In fact, a whole range of cleaning products can be found, specially developed for motorbikes: wipes, spray, lubricant, etc.
Are you well equipped?
Before you set off on the road again, remember to check your equipment. Is your visor still in good condition? Do your motorbike trousers still fit? Perhaps you need a more breathable jacket for the summer? After all, motorbike safety equipment must be adapted to the season so that you are at the right temperature, but still well protected.
Are you properly insured?
Before you head out onto the road though, don't forget to check the scope and extent of your motorcycle insurance cover. In addition to covering your motorbike and your equipment, it is vital that you are also protected as the bike rider.
Did you know that, at AXA, the fact that you do not drive much in winter is already included in the calculation of the premium. We offer more attractive prices than our competitors who operate on the principle of suspending the premium in the winter. So, there is no need to suspend your insurance in winter, nor to expose yourself to the risk of forgetting to reactivate it in spring.
Don’t hesitate to contact one of our agents who will study your requirements free of charge.
Vigilance is still required
You've been away from the bike for a few months, so it's also up to you to ease yourself back into the saddle!
Take a few laps around the vicinity to get back into the swing of things at limited speed. Take the opportunity to listen to the engine and detect any abnormal noise.
Gently wake up the engine, before putting the throttle back on. Have a good trip and a great summer!
