Batteries - Hopefully your battery has been on a trickle charge all winter, if not bring it in for a free load test, we can also charge and test the battery for you.
Tires - Look over your tires, if you see cracking on the sidewalls or in the tread or if the tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch it is time to replace it. For a quick check for tread depth insert a penny upside down into a groove in the center of the tire, 2/32 of an inch is right at the top of Lincoln's head. Tires must be properly inflated, this is critical for performance and life of your tire. Always check your tire pressure when the tire is cold, before a ride or at least 3 hours after a ride.
Brakes - Make sure brakes are properly working and the thickness of your pad should be a minimum of 2mm. With a flashlight you should be able to see this without removing the caliper and be sure your brake fluid reservoir is full.
Chain - Make sure to clean and then lube your chain. If it is not freed from all the build up and you keep lubing the chain it is just sealing in the dirt causing more wear on the chain. Check the chain for proper tension, it should hang softly and there should not be any kinks.
Gas - If you did not treat your fuel before putting your bike away you will want to drain the tank and put in fresh gas, Ethanol is evil!
Oil - If you did not change your oil before storing it over the winter you will want to change it. Combustion contaminants in the oil cause internal corrosion when left sitting for too long.
Lights and signals - Make sure all lights and signals are properly working.
REMEMBER
After a long winter, there is a very dangerous residual leftover. Loose SAND & SALT is everywhere on corners, intersections, and sides of the road. This is a severe danger to all two wheeled vehicles. The core road temperature will still be cold so allow more time for your tires to warm up.
So get on those long johns, heated gear and head on in to see us. Come on we are Vermonters we can handle a little chill for the thrill of an early ride!
Call us with any questions 388-0669
