Posted on March 21, 2010 12:13
T-CLOCK - This is an acronym that describes an overall safety inspection of the motorcycle. While this is a much more extensive inspection than you would make at a rest stop, this will give you an idea of what you should be looking for and checking in most aspects of the motorcycle to maintain proper operations or alter you to improper operations. The checklist that covers the inspection called T-CLOCK is available on the GWRRA and the NH-E websites.
Here is T-CLOCK in a nutshell:
T – Tires and Wheels – inspect condition of front and rear tires (pressure & tread), wheels, rims, bearings and seals.
C – Controls – this covers the condition of levers, cables, hoses and throttle.
L – Lights – inspection of lights, lenses, reflectors, wiring and headlight reflector; also, check the aim of the headlight (right/left and height).
O – Oil – check levels and for leaks in engine oil, rear end gear oil, hydraulic brake fluid, coolant and fuel.
C – Chassis – inspect frame, steering head bearings, swing arm and suspension.
K – Kickstand – inspect center stand and side stand for cracks and bent parts. Maintain proper tension on springs to keep stand in place when folded up. Also, make sure the engine stops with the bike in gear and the side stand extended.
The T-CLOCK form has more extensive descriptions of the inspections suggested above. Whether you use T-CLOCK or your own experience with your inspections and making sure the bike is ride-worthy, I encourage each of you to routinely go over your bikes or have a mechanic do it for you if you are so inclined.
The crucial point is that we have a new riding season ahead of us, and some bikes have been sitting for the entire winter. Before you take off for the next weekend jaunt or cross-country trip, make sure the bike is as ready as you are. It may well be the most important time you spend preparing for your next trip. Above all else when you start riding this spring, be extra vigilant. Remember the 4-wheel drivers haven’t seen many motorcycles for four or so months. They are not looking for you. You must look out for them! Be careful as the streets are extra dangerous this time of year! Furthermore, remember you are not as good as you were last fall. We are rusty after the long winter hiatus. Don’t head off into busy traffic right off the bat. Go down some empty country roads. Do some practice in an empty parking lot. Practice what you leaned at your last ERC. Turn, brake and swerve – you remember. Ease into the riding season!
N-17 TCLOCS.pdf
N-19 Trailer Check.pdf
N-18 Trike Check.pdf