Returning to Riding

[sclayto2]

Hey all,

Due to work and 'stuff' I've been off the bike for about 18 months now. It has been so long, the battery is dead and any bugs that were on it are now dust. Basically, it hasn't turned a wheel since September 2016.

Is it advisable doing some form of refresher for me? What is the best way to resurrect a bike back to full health?

Cheers all

[Rubin215]

Charge the battery, stick some fresh fuel in the tank and get it started.

Blow up the tyres,take it for a good run and then change the oil and filter when you get back.

Then get it mot'd, insured and taxed again...

[bitcrusher]

Obvious stuff to me would be thinking that the roads are a helluva lot more greasy/icy/cold than they were when you hung up your leathers. Get both tyres up to the correct pressure, rotate both wheels by hand to inspect the tyres carefully and check that your brakes are not binding. Then come back a day or two later and check that your tyre pressures are still the same i.e. no slow punctures. Personally I never keep tyres beyond about 3 years old because they start going hard so check your date codes on the sidewalls (four digit number e.g. 3016 would be week 30 in 2016 when they came out of the mould) and consider getting new rubber if they are getting old regardless of tread depth. Run the bike up to temperature and do an oil and filter change if you're confident in doing so and do a proper job of cleaning and oiling your chain. Then just get out there again and rack up some miles to regain confidence. Welcome back!

[cbmotorsport]

No need for a refresher unless you were very inexperienced before you stopped riding. Just get out there and go steady.

As for bike, if it's been kept dry and looked after while it's been standing, not much need to do anything. Give it the once over, get your pressures right, lube up the chain, get out there.

Give it a good service too.

[black-k1]

Charge the battery. If it holds the charge then fine, if not then replace it.

Check the tyres for both pressure and signs of aging. Replace if not in good condition.

A quick check of suspension, bearings, chain etc. with a attention as required.

Check the oil and give it some fuel, and off you go. A full oil change and service shortly afterwards is a good idea.

Refresher training is not really required to get you back on the road but every single one of us (except perhaps BN! ) can benefit from a review of our riding so there is no harm in a refresher.

[sclayto2]

Thanks all for the advice.

Much appreciated.