Motorcycle pre-ride inspection checklist (T-CLOCS)

A motorcycle pre-ride inspection checklist covers the parts that can hurt you if they fail: tires, brakes and controls, lights, fluids, the chassis and the stands. The easiest way to remember it is T-CLOCS, a Motorcycle Safety Foundation checklist: Tires and wheels, Controls, Lights and electrics, Oil and other fluids, Chassis, and Stands. Walk around the bike before every ride, and do the fuller version before long trips.

Below is each step in order, what to look for, and which problems mean you should not ride.

Why a pre-ride check matters

A car can often limp to the side of the road with a problem. A motorcycle has two contact patches, and a flat tire, a stuck throttle or a failed brake can cause a crash. NHTSA's motorcycle safety guidance tells riders to inspect tire pressure and tread depth, brakes, headlights and signals, and fluid levels before every ride, and to check underneath the bike for oil or gas leaks. A few minutes at the start costs far less than a roadside repair.

Motorcycle pre-ride inspection checklist: T-CLOCS

T: Tires and wheels

Look at the tires first, since they are your only contact with the road.

• Pressure. Check with a gauge when the tires are cold, and match the figure on the bike's label or in the manual. Our tire pressure guide explains where to find it.
• Tread and wear. Check tread depth and wear, and look for uneven wear, cracks or weathering.
• Damage. Look for bulges, cuts, embedded nails, glass or stones.
• Seating. Check the tire is seated evenly on the rim.
• Wheels. Check spokes for tightness and cracks, look for rim dents or bends, and check the bearings and seals for play or damage.

Do not ride on a tire with a bulge, a cord showing or a puncture. Our tire date code guide explains how to check the age of a tire.

C: Controls

• Levers and pedals. Check that the clutch and brake levers, shift lever and brake pedal are not bent or cracked and that they move smoothly. Check the pivots.
• Throttle. It should twist smoothly and snap back to closed when you let go.
• Handlebars. They should be straight and turn from lock to lock without catching.
• Cables and hoses. Check the routing so nothing is pinched, kinked or rubbing, and check for frays. If your clutch feels off, see our clutch cable adjustment guide.
• Brake feel. Squeeze the front brake and press the rear. They should feel firm. A soft lever is a reason to stop and check the brake system.

L: Lights and electrics

• Battery. Check the terminals for corrosion and tightness, and check the vent tube.
• Headlight. Check low and high beam work and that the aim looks right.
• Tail and brake light. Check both work, operating the front and rear brake.
• Turn signals. Check all four, front and rear.
• Horn and switches. Test the horn and all switches, including the engine cut-off.
• Mirrors. Adjust them so you can see behind you.
• Lenses and reflectors. Check for cracks and missing reflectors.
• Wiring. Look for chafed, loose or hanging wires.

If a bulb is out, replace it before you ride. If a new bulb doesn't fix it, see why a motorcycle headlight stops working.

O: Oil and other fluids

The MSF checklist includes engine oil, gear oil, shaft drive, hydraulic fluid, coolant and fuel, and inspecting gaskets, seals, hoses and fittings for leaks.

• Engine oil. Check the level with the dipstick or sight glass as your manual says. See how often to change motorcycle oil for service timing.
• Brake and clutch fluid. Check the reservoirs or sight glass and the color.
• Coolant. On a liquid-cooled bike, check the reservoir level when the engine is cold.
• Fuel. Check the level and smell for leaks.
• Leaks. Look under the bike for drips or wet spots, and look at the engine, forks, brake calipers and hoses. If you find a leak, find the source before riding.

C: Chassis

• Frame. Look for cracks, damage or bends, especially after a crash or a drop.
• Steering head. Check for looseness or notches. With the front wheel off the ground, you should be able to turn the bars smoothly without play.
• Suspension. Push on the forks and rear shock. They should move smoothly and return without bouncing. Look for oil on the fork tubes.
• Chain or belt. Check tension and lubrication, and look at the sprocket teeth for wear. Our chain maintenance guide covers this.
• Fasteners. Check for loose or missing nuts and bolts. Look at the axles, footpegs, handlebar clamps and mounting bolts. Use a torque wrench only with the manual's values if you find one loose, and see a shop if you are unsure.

S: Stands

• Side and center stands. Check they are not cracked or bent, and that the springs hold them up when you ride. A side stand that falls down mid-corner is dangerous.
• Retention. Check the stand's spring tension and any safety cut-off switch.

Printable quick version

Letter	Check	Pass if
T	Tire pressure, tread, damage	Correct pressure, no cuts or bulges
C	Levers, throttle, cables, brake feel	Smooth, firm, returns fully
L	Lights, signals, horn, battery	Everything works, terminals tight
O	Oil, brake fluid, coolant, fuel, leaks	Levels right, nothing leaking
C	Frame, steering, suspension, chain	No cracks, play or damage
S	Stands	Fully retract and hold

What to do before a long trip

For a longer ride, add these:

• Check tire pressure and tire age, and look for wear on the sides
• Check brake pad thickness
• Look at the chain, and lube it
• Review the maintenance schedule so nothing is overdue
• Confirm you have a tool kit, tire repair gear and your registration and insurance
• Check recalls for your model

Do not ride if you find

• A tire with a bulge, exposed cords, a flat or a large puncture
• A brake lever or pedal that feels soft, goes to the grip or does not return
• A throttle that sticks
• A leak of fuel, brake fluid or oil
• A headlight, brake light or both signals not working
• A cracked frame, loose steering head or missing axle fasteners
• A chain that is loose, rusted solid or missing links
• Warning lights that do not behave as usual

Fix it, or have a shop fix it, before you ride. If you are unsure, do not guess.

Pre-ride check versus a service inspection

The pre-ride check is a quick look you do yourself. It does not replace scheduled maintenance, which includes things you cannot see in a few minutes such as valve clearances and brake fluid condition. A shop inspection looks deeper and can catch wear before it becomes a problem.

When to see a mechanic

Book a shop visit if:

• You find a problem you are not sure how to fix or whether it is safe
• Brakes, steering or suspension feel different than usual
• You see cracks, leaks or damaged parts
• A warning light stays on
• The bike has been in a crash or has been sitting for a long time
• The same item keeps failing between checks

Our maintenance services page lists shops that handle routine service, and you can compare motorcycle repair shops in Houston or your own city.

A simple habit

Pick one routine and use it every time. Many riders start at the front tire and walk around the bike in the same order, then check the controls from the seat. A habit you repeat is a habit you do not skip, and a routine takes less time than hunting for a problem on the road.