That first mild spell in the UK does the same thing every year: you open the garage, see the bike, and start planning routes before you’ve checked anything. If it’s been sat for weeks (or months), this 10-point check takes around 20–30 minutes and helps avoid silly first-ride problems.
Time: 20–30 minutes
Handy bits: tyre pressure gauge, rag, torch, chain lube
- Quick spring checklist (60 seconds)
- Tyre pressures and condition
- Battery and lights
- Brake lever feel and a quick disc/pad check
- Chain slack and lubrication
- Fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
- First ride is a shakedown, not a qualifying lap
Garage essentials for a quick spring recommission.
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Walk-around
Before you touch the ignition, do a slow lap of the bike and look for anything obvious. Check underneath for leaks, scan for corrosion on bolts and brackets, and make sure nothing is loose or out of place. -
Tyres
Set pressures first, then check condition. Look for cracks in the sidewalls, cuts in the tread, and anything embedded. If it’s been sat in the same spot for a while, watch for flat spots and don’t start the season on tyres that feel past their best. -
Battery and electrics
If it cranks slowly, charge the battery before you start troubleshooting. Then test headlight (dip and main beam), indicators, horn, and brake light from both front and rear controls. -
Fluids
Check oil level on level ground using the sight glass or dipstick. If liquid-cooled, check coolant level and look around hoses for crusty residue. For brakes, glance at the fluid colour and pay attention to lever feel; very dark fluid or a spongy lever usually means it needs attention. -
Brakes
After storage it’s normal to see a light film on the discs. Check pad thickness, look for uneven wear, and make sure the lever builds pressure and holds. If the discs or calipers look dirty, a dedicated brake cleaner is the right tool because it cleans braking parts without leaving oily residue. MotoClean Brake Cleaner is designed for this sort of quick pre-ride refresh. Keep overspray off tyres and avoid contact with painted surfaces.
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Chain and sprockets
Don’t just lube it and hope. Check slack, rotate the wheel to feel for tight spots, and inspect sprocket teeth for hooking. Wipe off old grime, then apply chain lube to the inside run of the chain and let it settle before riding. MotoClean Chain Lube works well for an easy spring re-lube and helps resist rust on wet UK roads. -
Controls and pivots
Make sure everything moves freely. The throttle should snap back cleanly, the clutch should feel smooth, and the brake lever and pedal should return properly. If anything feels stiff, a light maintenance spray can help protect exposed metal and free up small pivots after storage. MotoClean Maintenance Spray is useful here, but apply carefully, wipe excess, and keep it away from discs, pads and tyres. -
Fasteners and safety basics
Give the bike a quick once-over for anything that could have loosened. Mirrors, levers, number plate, and exhaust mounts are all worth a glance. It’s also worth checking your kit if it’s been stored away: visor condition, glove seams, and boots that may have dried out. -
First start
Start the bike and let it settle at idle. Listen for anything unusual and watch for leaks appearing as it warms slightly. A small seep can show itself once the bike has had a minute to heat-cycle. -
First ride
Treat the first 10 minutes like a systems check. Spring roads can still be cold, damp and gritty even when the sun’s out. Build tyre temperature gradually, brake gently for the first few stops, and keep it steady. When you get back, do a quick re-check, especially chain slack and any signs of leakage.