| As the weather finally starts to look better it's so | | | | 3. Are you ready for the ride? |
| tempting to just jump on the bike and go. Hold | | | | Be sure you have the proper gear for the |
| your horses a minute! There are a few things we | | | | weather. The temperature may feel great while |
| need to consider before we start 'er up. | | | | you're standing still, but hypothermia can hit fast |
| 1. (and most important) Is the bike mechanically | | | | and hard at highway speeds. A good leather coat, |
| sound and safe to ride? | | | | chaps, gloves and a hat are the bare minimum |
| Now is a good time to change the spark plugs | | | | this time of year and all states require some form |
| and oil and drain out last year's gas; check brake | | | | of eye protection. A face mask is great for cold |
| parts and replace if needed; check the lever | | | | weather, too. Check the forecast and be aware |
| action to make sure clutch and brake are in good | | | | of any additional gear you may need. March and |
| working order; check tire wear and air pressure; | | | | April are notorious for sudden thunder storms and |
| make sure all lights are working properly; and | | | | if you don't have raingear, you're gonna be |
| make sure all fasteners, nuts, ties, clips, etc. are | | | | miserable! |
| tight. | | | | 4. Now we're just about ready. |
| 2. Is the road safe to ride on? | | | | Check your mirrors, take a minute to remember |
| Make sure the ice and snow are melted; check | | | | the feel of the seat, start 'er up and GO! |
| for standing water; and be aware of pot holes, | | | | Ride safe, be smart, get there in one piece. |
| loose gravel and sand. | | | | |