Presented By ELF & CMSNL

Keep your motorcycle running right, and get home safely with our key safety checks and riding tips for any classic and vintage motorcycle enthusiast looking to take part in The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride.

1. Tyre & Wheels

Tyre pressures should be checked when they are cold as heat increases pressure in the tyres. Check your manual or stamp for the recommended cold tyre pressures. Also check your tyres for wear, light punctures, or cracks. Old bikes often have ample tread, but aged rubber isn’t the best on-road!

While looking at the tyres, also check the rims for dings or cracks, and on spoked wheels, check and tighten any loose spokes. Check to ensure your wheels turn freely, without grabbing or resistance from your bearing or brakes. CMSNL.com have an incredible range of products for your wheels to keep you rolling.

2. Brakes Are Working

Check the brake pad width. Pads take a long time to wear out, so if the lever starts to lose pressure, it may be a leak. If your brakes are not hydraulic, check that the cables aren’t worn, frayed or buckled. If they are hydraulic, check your lines for leaks. If no leaks are spotted, you may need to bleed your brakes to remove any air bubbles trapped in your brake fluid. Air will reduce the hydraulic pressure in your brake lines and make your braking less efficient. Make sure the brake lever/pedal activates the brake light before they start to engage the cable.

3. Oil Level Topped Up

Determine if your oil needs to be serviced. Luckily, our partners at ELF Lubricants are here to help you when it comes to getting the right oil for your motorcycle, knowing how important it is for you to take care of your bike the way you take care of your health. See our maintenance guide from ELF Lubriancts here.

4. Chain Tension & Lubrication

Check the chain tension and check the front and rear sprocket for any wear or damage to the teeth. If your chain is in good condition and has been tensioned, scrub it with a chain brush and lubricate it by spraying chain lube onto the inner surface of your chain while rotating your rear tyre by hand to ensure it moves smoothly through your sprockets. Allow it to penetrate those hard to reach places, and wipe any excess.

5. Throttle Responsiveness

Check the throttle, brake lever/pedal, and clutch lever for a bit of free play. They should have a little freedom to move, but not a lot. Your throttle should move freely, without being restricted by your handgrips. Your throttle once applied should also snap back into place when let go. If your throttle sticks, you risk apply acceleration at dangerous moments, so please ensure your throttle moves freely and is unobstructed.

Now your noble steed is ready to ride for men’s health.

Watch this video from our friends at Trip Machine on the 5 tips above.