TCS: Well prepared for the motorcycle season
BEFORE THE FIRST TOUR Higher temperatures tempt bikers back onto the road. After the long winter break, however, the bike should be thoroughly checked. Riding training sessions are also useful for experienced riders.
The first warm days have already lured motorcyclists out onto the roads. A few acclimatization laps are good for a fresh start after the winter. The big tours usually start with the Ascension weekend. The motorcycle should be well prepared for this, but riders should also be fit.
Training for all
Motorcycling is a sport, and every sport needs a warm-up phase. This is where specialized riding training courses from TCS Training & Events can help. The "Moto Warm-Up" course, for example, is ideal for the start of the season. If the basics are right, the "Moto cornering" course on the Lignières track provides the opportunity for concentrated practice. Themed after-work training courses offer a quick refresher course to brush up on riding skills.
Frequent breakdowns
Last year, the TCS patrol was called out 16,600 times for motorcycle breakdowns or accidents. Especially after the long winter break, it often happens that the battery is flat. It is therefore better to remove it during the winter months and extend its service life with a charger. After reinstallation, special battery grease protects the bare terminals from corrosion.
To prevent a broken motorcycle chain, it is important to check the chain and chain tension regularly. After cleaning the sprocket and chain wheel, the chain must be freshly lubricated. It is also advisable to check the air pressure and the general condition of the tires before the first ride. And to avoid a variety of engine defects, the oil and oil filter should be changed once a year - preferably right after the winter break.
Tire thing
Don't be fooled by the wear indicator (TWI, Tread Wear Indicator), which is only 0.8 millimeters high on motorcycle tires. The legal minimum tread depth in Switzerland and Europe is 1.6 millimeters. There is a fine for tires with less tread depth.
