So we all know there are enough things you have to worry about while your scooting around. Who’s cutting you off, what animal or road debris just came out in front of you, and so on. So its a given that ...

we really don’t need anything else to surprise us. That’s why it’s important to know T-CLOCK. What is T-CLOCK you ask? It’s an acronym for the six inspection categories you should check on your bike every time you ride. Now most people think it should be done before you go out but really it should be done every time you come back. The reason for this is it gives you the opportunity to make any repairs or adjustments without having to rush because you’re anxious to get out or meet up with the pack. It also enables you to go to the shop and pick up the parts you really need instead of putting a band aide on the problem.

T-CLOCK was created by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. The letters correspond to the systems to be checked.

T - tires and wheels
C - controls
L - lights and electronics
O - oils and fluids
C - chassis
K - kickstand

TIRES AND WHEELS
Tires: pressures, tread condition, free from cuts, punctures, or bulges.
Wheels: straight and true, spokes are tight, no cracks, spin freely, and bearing seals are good.
Brakes: pads have material left, handles and pedals move freely and are firm, hoses are not kinked or torn, and there are no leaks.

CONTROLS
Throttle: responds easily and snaps back when released.
Levers: pivot pins or bolts are affixed, bushings are not worn, no visible cracks.
Cables: adjusted properly, no visual fraying, lubricated, and routed properly without binding.

LIGHTS AND ELECTRONICS
Lenses and Reflectors: clean and in tact.
Brake and Taillights: the bulb lights and both brake controls activate the bulb.
Headlight: the beam is properly aimed, and both filaments light.
Signals: if equipped, light when activated.
Wiring: wires are free from chaffing, are routed properly.

OIL AND FLUIDS
Levels: check the engine oil, transmission oil, primary oil, coolant, and fuel.
Condition: while checking the level, check the color and consistency of the fluids.
Leaks: check for any visual signs of leaking.

CHASSIS
Steering and Suspension: check for any binding from the bearings when turning the fork, see if there is any play in the rear swing arm or fork legs by pulling and pushing on them while the bike is off the floor, check to make sure the suspension moves freely and smoothly.
Chain or Belt: check to see if the tension on the chain or belt is proper and that the chain is lubricated.
Frame: check to see if there is any paint cracked or peeling, this might indicate a crack or bend in the metal.

KICKSTAND
Sidestand or Centerstand: moves freely and retracts properly, cutout switch operates.

I know what your thinking, it sounds like too much work. The reality of it is that if you get into a routine the check will take less and less time and it sure beats the alternative possibilities.