North Wales Police urge bikers to check bikes before riding
As spring arrives and weather conditions improve, North Wales Police are reminding motorcyclists to check their bikes are roadworthy before heading out after winter storage.
While many bikers ride all year round, others may be preparing for their first ride of the season. Officers are urging riders to carry out basic safety checks to ensure their motorcycles are in a safe condition to return to the road.
A spokesperson for North Wales Police said: “After weeks or even months of inactivity, it’s crucial that you give your bike a thorough check before riding. A bit of preparation now can help prevent breakdowns or even serious accidents.”
The force has issued a maintenance checklist for riders, covering everything from electricals to PPE. The checklist includes:
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Battery and electrics – Check for charge, clean terminals, and replace batteries that no longer hold power.
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Tyres – Inspect tread depth, look for cracks, and ensure air pressure is correct.
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Fluids – Check oil, coolant and brake fluid levels; stale petrol can also impact performance.
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Lights – Make sure all headlights, indicators and brake lights are working.
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Drive chain or belt – Look for signs of wear or rust, check tension and ensure chains are lubricated.
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Brakes and controls – Ensure brakes operate smoothly and are not seized, check levers, throttle and steering.
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PPE – Examine your helmet, gloves and boots for any signs of damage or expiry, as safety gear can degrade over time.
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General inspection – Scan your bike for damage, loose fittings or excessive wear. Lube cables and examine crash protection.
Alongside mechanical checks, North Wales Police are also encouraging riders to consider brushing up on their riding skills after time off the bike. They suggest schemes such as BikeSafe or Biker Down, run in partnership with the fire service, to boost confidence and improve safety.
“There’s always an excitement to getting back on the bike,” the spokesperson added. “But your riding skills may be a little rusty. Even experienced riders can benefit from refresher training.”
Information on BikeSafe and Biker Down is available via the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service’s road safety pages.
