There's no better feeling in Ontario than the first dry, salt-free road of the year. But a Harley that's sat since November needs a few minutes of attention before it earns that ride. Here's the wake-up checklist.
Much of how easy spring is comes down to how the bike was stored last fall. If you put it away properly, this is quick. If you didn't, this is where you find out.
Battery and fuel
If the battery sat on a tender all winter, it'll be ready. If it didn't, test it before you trust it. Check that the fuel is fresh and the tank shows no signs of condensation or rust, and look for any fuel lines that stiffened up in the cold.
Tires, brakes, and fluids
Set tire pressures and inspect the tread and sidewalls for flat spots or cracking from the cold. Squeeze the brakes and check the lever feel. Look over the oil, brake, and clutch fluids; if any were left old over winter, now is the time to change them, not three rides in.
Controls, lights, and a slow first ride
Work the throttle, clutch, and brakes through their full travel. Check every light and signal. Then take a deliberate first ride: easy speeds, no heroics, listening for anything that doesn't sound right while everything warms back up and re-seats.
The pre-season tune advantage
Spring is also the smartest time for a dyno tune. The shop isn't yet buried under the May rush, and you start the season with the bike running its best instead of chasing a problem in July. A fresh-season tune off winter storage is the ideal one-two.
Book your spring service
Want your Harley road-ready for the first warm weekend? Book a spring inspection or tune at DG Custom Cycle in Aylmer.