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CategoriesMotorcycle Safety Checklist: Cross These Off Before Every Ride
Missouri offers some incredible roads for motorcyclists, from the Great River Road along the Mississippi to winding rural routes outside St. Louis such as Highway 94. However, the state also sees a high number of serious crashes.
In 2023, motorcyclists accounted for 17% of all traffic fatalities in Missouri. Even more worrying, 82% of motorcycle crashes that year resulted in injury or death.
Every ride carries some risk, but taking a few extra minutes before starting the engine can save your life. A safety check helps you catch mechanical problems, stay visible, and avoid preventable hazards.
Whether heading across town or out on a longer trip, these pre-ride steps can help protect you before your wheels leave the driveway.
Start With the Basics: Essential Pre-Ride Motorcycle Safety Checks
Some motorcycle accidents are caused by mechanical problems or overlooked maintenance. Implement the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s T-CLOCS checklist (tires and wheels, controls, lights and electrics, oil and fluids, chassis, stands) to prepare before every ride:
Check Tire Pressure and Tread
Low tire pressure makes handling unpredictable and increases your risk of a blowout. Use a gauge to match the recommended PSI (usually between 28 and 40) and inspect both tires for worn tread, cracks, or embedded debris.
Inspect Front and Rear Brakes
Squeeze both the front and rear brake levers. They should feel firm, not spongy. Look at the brake pads to see if they’re worn down or uneven. If your brake fluid is low or discolored, it may be time to replace it.
Test Throttle and Inspect Cables
Twist the throttle to check for smooth, responsive movement. Look over the throttle and brake cables for fraying, rust, or binding; any stiffness or delay can affect control on the road.
Test All Lights and Turn Signals
Turn on your headlight, brake light, taillight, and turn signals. Tap the brakes to make sure the brake light responds. Clear visibility helps keep you safe, so don’t ride until all lights work correctly.
Check Chassis and Suspension
Bounce the bike to test suspension response and look for unusual movement. Feel for looseness in the steering head, check the frame for damage, and make sure the center stand (if equipped) is stable and locks into place.
Confirm Oil and Fluid Levels
Check your oil, coolant, and brake or clutch fluids. If you notice any leaks around the engine, lines, or reservoirs, it’s best to hold off on riding and find the source. Low levels can lead to overheating, mechanical issues, or brake failure.
Adjust and Secure Mirrors
Sit on the bike and position your mirrors to ensure a clear, rear-facing view with minimal blind spots. If they’re loose or misaligned, tighten them before riding to maintain visibility and avoid sudden road hazards.
Maintaining these core systems can reduce the likelihood of mechanical failure and provide you with peace of mind every time you ride.
Always Gear Up—No Exceptions
Protective gear can be the difference between a minor injury and a life-changing one. It can also impact your insurance claim and affect your right to compensation.
Here’s what to wear every time you ride:
Riders without helmets are 38% more likely to die in a crash, and in 2024, 52 motorcyclists were killed in Missouri while not wearing one. Choose a helmet that fits snugly and meets Department of Transportation (DOT) standards. Opt for a full-face design for the best coverage, and replace your helmet after a crash or hard impact.
Jeans and t-shirts won’t protect you in a slide. Wear abrasion-resistant gear, such as armored jackets, pants, and gloves, made from leather or reinforced textiles like Kevlar. Choose motorcycle boots that cover your ankles and have non-slip soles to help you stay in control.
Most motorcycle fatal crashes happen within two to five miles of home. No matter how short the ride, suit up every time.
Secure Loose Items and Scan Your Bike
Before rolling out, take a quick lap around your motorcycle to catch anything you might have missed. Look for the following:
- Check for Loose Bolts or Bags: Make sure tail bags, tank bags, and saddlebags are zipped, snapped, or latched securely. Loose items can shift your balance or get caught in moving parts.
- Inspect the Chain or Belt: Look for wear, sagging, or dry spots. If your bike uses a chain, check the tension and keep it lubricated. A worn drive system can lock up and cause a crash.
- Look for Visible Damage: Scan the frame, fenders, levers, and lights for cracks, leaks, or scrapes. If something looks off, especially after parking in a public place or storing the bike outdoors, inspect it before riding.
- Make Sure the Kickstand Retracts: It’s easy to overlook, but riding off with the kickstand down can catch the pavement and throw you off balance. Always double-check that it’s fully retracted.
These spot checks take less than a minute but could save you from serious harm or a roadside emergency.
Take Pre-Ride Safety Precautions to Protect Yourself on the Road
Your ride starts before you twist the throttle. Make it a habit to inspect your bike, wear the right gear, and stay alert every time you head out. These steps can reduce your risk, but not all dangers are within your control.
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Cofman Townsley. Our experienced St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers can investigate what happened, handle the insurance process, and fight for the compensation you need to recover.
Schedule a free consultation today. We protect motorcyclists’ rights and hold at-fault drivers accountable.