Pre-Ride Check ListBefore you take a 100mph ride on your freshly rebuilt Classic it’s sensible to make some final checks of your handiwork.

  1. Re-check that all nuts and boils are tight, especially wheel spindie nuts.
  1. Check that all earth connections are tight.
  1. Check that you have sufficient fuel, that-it is getting to the carburetors but that it isn’t leaking from any unions.
  1. Test carburetor action to make sure the slides fully close with the throttle shut and the handlebars in any position.
  1. Check all oil levels.
  1. Test brake action and adjustment.
  1. Check tyre pressures.

checklist

  1. Check chain tension and spring clip security.
  1. Wheel the machine to make sure nothing is rubbing or binding.
  1. Turn bars from lock to lock to make sure no cables snag or become tight.
  1. Make sure all electrical components are working properly.
  1. Pack tools so you can adjust the breaks and carburetor(s) if necessary during the shakedown run.
  1. Take a mobile phone, failure to do so will guarantee that you’ll need it.
  1. Following your inaugural test ride, go over the machine and check nuts and bolts for tightness and look for any leaks.
  1. On return, treat yourself to a beer and start planning the bike’s first big trip.