Tires – according to a 2015 report prepared by the National Transportation Safety Board, only 20% of defective tires in the U.S. are recalled and about 19,000 drivers a year are injured in tire-related crashes. This highlights the importance of making sure your tires are ready for the riding season. First, look for any mechanical damage, like punctures, and then make sure that the tires are inflated to the proper PSI.
Fluids – you probably won’t forget about checking if you have enough fuel for your next ride, but checking oil levels and brake fluid is just as important. Changing engine oil at the beginning of the season may also be a good idea – even though it does not necessarily have a direct effect on your safety, doing so will prolong the lifespan of your engine.
Mirrors, lights, and windshield – make sure that all the lights are working since they are an essential safety feature. Clean the mirrors and the windshield of dirt, check for any cracks and replace if needed.
Gas – at the beginning of the riding season you need to fill up your tank with fresh gas, as the residue fuel from the previous season may clog the system and make it difficult to start the engine. For the same reason, you should properly drain the tank before storing your motorcycle for winter or at least use some fuel stabilizer.