Motorcycle Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist
A comprehensive pre-ride motorcycle inspection guide covering tires, fluids, lights, and mechanical systems to ensure rider safety and bike reliability before every journey.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A pre-ride inspection, often referred to by the T-CLOCS acronym, is a systematic way to evaluate a motorcycle's condition. This process typically takes 5–15 minutes for a DIY rider once the routine is memorized. It is the most effective way to prevent mid-ride breakdowns.
While a professional shop inspection is more thorough for long-term maintenance, this pre-ride version focuses on immediate operational safety. Regular checks reduce the total cost of ownership by catching wear early.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Pressure | Required | DIY | 3 min | Matches manual PSI | Inflate to spec |
| Tire Tread/Condition | Required | DIY | 2 min | No cracks, nails, or wear bars showing | Replace tire |
| Engine Oil Level | Required | DIY | 2 min | Between Min/Max marks | Top off oil |
| Front/Rear Brakes | Required | DIY | 2 min | Firm lever/pedal feel | Bleed or check pads |
| Brake Fluid Levels | Required | DIY | 1 min | Fluid above lower line | Refill and check for leaks |
| Throttle Operation | Required | DIY | 1 min | Snaps back freely | Lube or replace cable |
| Clutch Lever | Required | DIY | 1 min | Smooth action; correct freeplay | Adjust cable |
| Headlight (High/Low) | Required | DIY | 1 min | Both beams functioning | Replace bulb |
| Turn Signals | Required | DIY | 1 min | Front and rear flashing | Check bulb/relay |
| Brake Light | Required | DIY | 1 min | Activates with lever AND pedal | Check switch/bulb |
| Chain/Belt Tension | Required | DIY | 2 min | Slack within manual specs | Adjust tension |
| Chain Lubrication | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Links are moist, no rust | Apply lube |
| Coolant Level | Required | DIY | 1 min | Visible in reservoir | Top off (if liquid cooled) |
| Fuel Level | Required | DIY | 1 min | Enough for planned trip | Refuel |
| Side Stand Switch | Required | DIY | 1 min | Engine cuts when stand is down in gear | Repair switch |
| Mirrors | Required | DIY | 1 min | Clean and adjusted for visibility | Clean and tighten |
| Horn | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | Audible and clear | Check wiring |
| Engine Kill Switch | Required | DIY | 1 min | Cuts engine immediately | Repair switch |
| Fasteners/Bolts | Recommended | DIY | 3 min | No visible loose nuts or bolts | Tighten to torque spec |
| Battery Terminals | Optional | DIY | 2 min | No corrosion; tight fit | Clean and tighten |
Use this table as a mental or physical guide before every ride. Consistency is key to developing an eye for abnormalities.
If any 'Required' item fails, do not operate the motorcycle until the issue is resolved. For 'Recommended' items, plan maintenance soon.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Keeping a small logbook of your findings can help track wear patterns over time.
- Record tire PSI to spot slow leaks.
- Note when you last lubed the chain.
- Dispose of used fluids at authorized recycling centers.
- Reset your trip meter after refueling.
- Check for fluid puddles under the bike after parking.
- Ensure your registration and insurance are current.
- Clean your visor or windscreen for better visibility.
- Check your riding gear for damage.
- Verify that luggage is securely strapped down.
- Browse Tire Checklists for more detail.
- See our Fluid Maintenance guides.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.