START-GO

An easy way to remember the items to inspect is the phrase “START-GO.”
Steering and Drive System
- Drive chain: Check your owner's manual for proper adjustment. Inspect and lubricate the chain regularly.
- Drive shaft: Check for leaks, and consult your manual for proper lubricant levels.
- Handlebars and footrests: Shake to make sure they're secure.
- Steering and Drive System
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- Drive chain
- Check your owner's manual for proper adjustment. Inspect and lubricate the chain regularly.
- Drive shaft
- Check for leaks, and consult your manual for proper lubricant levels.
- Handlebars and footrests
- Shake to make sure they're secure.
- Throttle and Brakes
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- Throttle
- Make sure it moves smoothly and snaps closed.
- Ignition switch
- Check for wear.
- Engine stop switch
- Test operation.
- Brakes
- Test to make sure controls operate smoothly.
- Foot shifter
- Make sure it's attached firmly and positioned for safe operation.
- Activate Lights
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- Headlights and taillights
- Turn them on.
- Brake lights
- Press the brake, and have your riding partner make sure the brake lights illuminate.
- Registration
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- Make sure your registration or trail pass decals are attached.
- Confirm that the dates are still valid.
- Tires, Wheels, and Suspension
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- Tires
- Always use a low-pressure gauge to check tire pressure.
- Make sure pressure is equal on both sides.
- Check for damage that could cause air leaks.
- Axle nuts
- Make sure they're tight and secured by cotter pins.
- Bearings
- Try to rock the wheel on its axle to check for wear.
- Major fasteners
- Periodically tighten all major fasteners with hand tools.
- Gasoline
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- Gasoline
- Make sure the tank is full.
- Leaks
- Check for fuel leaks.
- Oil
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- Oil
- Check while the engine is off.
- Leaks
- Check for oil leaks.
Additional Items
In addition to checking the items listed in START-GO, your pre-ride inspection should include the following:
- Spark arrestor/muffler
- Make sure it’s attached firmly and working properly.
- Air filter
- Make sure it’s clean, undamaged, and unblocked.
- Spark plugs
- Replace if necessary.