10 checks you should make before setting off on your motorbike
Whether you're a seasoned rider or fresh from passing your motorcycle test, running through a pre-ride checklist is one of the smartest habits you can build.
The Cazoo editorial team
Published on 31 May 2026 | 5 mins read
Taking just a few minutes before every journey could be the difference between a smooth ride and a serious problem on the road. Here are 10 essential checks every motorcyclist should make before setting off.
1. Check your tyres
Your tyres are your only contact point with the road, so they deserve your full attention before every ride. Start by checking the tread depth – the legal minimum in the UK is 1mm across three-quarters of the tyre width for motorcycles, though replacing them well before that point is strongly advisable.
Next, inspect the tyre walls for cracks, bulges, cuts or any signs of perishing. Even a small defect can lead to a blowout at speed. Finally, check your tyre pressures. Underinflated or overinflated tyres will affect your handling, braking distances and overall safety. Your bike's manual or the sticker on the frame will tell you the correct PSi for both front and rear.
2. Test your brakes
Working brakes are non-negotiable. Before you set off, gently squeeze the front brake lever and press the rear brake pedal to check that both feel firm and responsive. Spongy brakes can indicate air in the hydraulic system, while excessive travel before the brake engages might point to worn pads. If anything feels off, don't ride until the issue has been inspected by a qualified mechanic.
3. Check your lights and indicators
Visibility on the road is crucial – both seeing and being seen. Walk around your bike and check that your headlight (both dipped and full beam), tail light, brake light and indicators are all working correctly. Bulbs can fail without warning, and a faulty brake light in particular is a serious safety risk that could also land you with a fine.
4. Inspect your chain and sprockets
A well-maintained chain is essential for safe riding. Check the chain tension – it should have a small amount of slack, as specified in your owner's manual – and make sure it's properly lubricated. A dry or stiff chain can snap unexpectedly, which is as dangerous as it sounds. While you're there, look at the sprocket teeth. Worn, hooked or missing teeth are a sign that the sprocket needs replacing.
5. Check your oil level
Engine oil keeps your motorcycle's moving parts lubricated and prevents serious mechanical damage. Locate your bike's sight glass or dipstick and make sure the oil level sits between the minimum and maximum markers. If it's low, top it up before you ride. Also, take a quick look underneath the bike for any oil spots or puddles that might indicate a leak – something that's worth investigating before it becomes a bigger problem.
6. Look at your fuel level
It might sound obvious, but running out of fuel on a busy road or in a remote area is a situation that's easily avoided. Check your fuel gauge before every ride, and if you're heading out on a longer journey, plan your route around petrol stations. Some older bikes don't have a gauge, so make a habit of knowing your approximate range and tracking your mileage.
7. Test your throttle and clutch
A sticky throttle or a clutch that doesn't engage and disengage smoothly is a recipe for trouble. Before riding, turn the bars from lock to lock while gently opening and closing the throttle to check that it moves freely and snaps back on its own when released. Check the clutch lever for a smooth, consistent feel. Both cables should be properly adjusted and free from kinks or fraying.
8. Check your mirrors
Your mirrors need to be clean, properly adjusted and giving you a clear view of what's happening behind you. Take a moment to position them correctly before setting off – it only takes a second but makes a significant difference to your awareness on the road. If your mirrors are cracked or loose, replace or tighten them before riding.
9. Look over your bodywork and levers
Give your bike a quick visual inspection for any obvious damage – bent levers, loose panels or anything that looks out of place. Bent brake or clutch levers can be a tell-tale sign that a bike has been dropped, and a loose fairing panel could detach at speed. Catching these things early is far safer than discovering them mid-ride.
10. Check that you're wearing the right gear
One final but vital check: yourself. Before you start the engine, make sure you're wearing appropriate protective gear. A well-fitting helmet, gloves, a protective jacket, trousers and boots are all essential. In the UK, a helmet is a legal requirement, and while the rest is not mandated by law, the right kit can make an enormous difference in the event of an accident.
Make it a habit
Running through these 10 checks before every ride doesn't need to take long – with practice, you'll get through them in just a few minutes. Think of it as part of the riding experience rather than a chore. A bike that's in good working order is a safer, more enjoyable bike to ride, and building this routine into your pre-ride ritual is one of the best things you can do as a motorcyclist.