"Are You Ready For This...?"

Pulling into my driveway when I came home from work today, I noticed all the pretty blossoms on our Japanese something-or-other tree and realized that "spring has sprung." The tree wasn't my only reminder, though; I'm beginning to see a lot more motorcycles on the road as all the seasonal riders uncover their steeds, blow off the cobwebs, and hit the mean streets. Though my own bikes get ridden year round, I realize not everyone is as hardcore as I am. Many bikes are forced to hibernate through the winter, sullenly slumbering through the drab brown months with their bellies full of stabilizer, their dreaming brains tickled by battery tenders, and their thickening lifeblood pooled morosely into sump pans. Grizzlies in waiting. Summer friends.

But now ... now here comes the sun and the green shoots of Bermuda thrust up through the dead heather of winter. Spring storms will soon inspire wildflowers to bloom. In southern states, women are revealing far more than they should in exchange for cheap plastic beads made in China ... All clear indicators of motorcycle-friendly weather!

Before you jump on that two-wheeled beauty, fire it up, and roar off through the neighborhood, however, make sure the bike's actually ready for the road. Check the tires for proper inflation and adequate tread. Check all the fluid levels (oil, coolant, brakes, battery, etc). Run a quick test of all the electrics: turn signals, horn, lights; in particular, make sure the brakelight comes on when you apply the brakes. Inspect fittings and hoses. Look for loose fasteners and inspect your chain: is the tension correct, does it need lubricated? Make sure your throttle and clutch cable move freely and smoothly; if not, lube them. How about your brakes; are the pads in good shape? Does your air filter need replaced or cleaned and oiled? Make sure no critters have taken up residence in the exhaust, air box, or even under the seat. When you saddle up for the first time, check the adjustment of your mirrors and take a moment to refamiliarize yourself with the controls; you don't want to be fumbling for the horn button when a careless driver, having gone all winter without worrying too much about motorcycles on the road, cuts into your lane.

You might also take some time to give your riding gear a quick once-over. If you haven't ridden in a few months, take it slow and easy at first; make sure you're not rusty. Find a vacant parking lot if necessary and chalk off some imaginary cones.

When your bike and you are ready, enjoy the ride!

And don't forget to return my wave when we pass.

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