Planning for an exotic, long bike trip to take a break from the boredom of daily life? Well, every bike lover fantasizes about going on a long trip on his bike at least once in his lifetime. Moreover, with so many splendid options for road trips across India including green valleys, snowy mountains, and much more. The rush of adrenaline that comes with riding your motorbike on the highway surrounded by beautiful scenery is incomparable. But to fully enjoy this experience, you must be completely prepared. As fun and advantageous as it sounds, it’s also quite dangerous and full of uncertainties. So, to make sure it’s safe and a memorable experience one must take some essential measures and check his/her bike before hitting the road. Also, if you need any spare parts on the go you can look for bike spare parts online.
Here are some very important tips on what to check about your bike and how to prepare your bike before going on a long road trip.
1. Understanding your bike
Whether you are planning your first trip or the next on the road, it is important to understand your bike in and out. Commuting to work daily or just roaming around locally is a different thing, but when it comes to long journeys on the highway, the technical aspects of your bike must be clear to you so that you can handle any unpleasant situation that might arise on your bike. One must know to apply brakes properly, accelerate steadily, and take smooth turns. Your bike is like your best friend, so it is mandatory to understand its mechanics well to realize any unforeseen issues that may arrive along your long trip.
2. Check Your Papers
This is another important tip to remember. Ensure you have all the papers required, such as the Registration Certificate, Driving License, permit papers, Bike insurance papers, Aadhaar card, etc. (Documents differs according to country rules and regulation). And make sure all these documents are up to date.
3. Check the lubrication
Check the engine oil to know if it is in good condition for a long motorcycle ride. You should get it checked with an expert because, after all the engine oil is considered to be the blood of a bike. A good lubricant plays a vital role in keeping the engine running smoothly. Depending on your bike type, you can upgrade to semi-synthetic or fully synthetic oil, as they go well with both hot and cold temperatures.
4. Check the air filter
It is mandatory to check the air filters of your bike before your long road trip. There will be situations where you need to take a long bike ride in India through dusty and dirty environments. As you know, the air filter stops the entry of harmful air particles in your bike’s engine and ensures proper air supply into your bike’s engine. So, if it is clogged, that may affect the performance of your bike on the journey. So, remember to check the air filters before starting your trip. Clean it or replace it if required.
5. Have a look at the drive chain
Check if there is any sort of damage to the drive chain, such as the wearing of the belt or any abnormality on the chain links. Check the chain tension. See if there is enough free play on the drive chains as per the bike type. Also, check the front and rear sprocket for any wear or damage to the teeth. Clean the chain with a soft brush or cloth and apply lubes if necessary.
Conclusion
Before you head for your desired long bike road trip, it is very essential to get your bike checked thoroughly by an experienced mechanic or take your bike to a well-reputed service center.