After the last ride of the season: five checks

After autumn the bike sits for months, and dirt, moisture and small faults don't go away on their own, they get worse. Half an hour in the garage right after the ride saves you headaches in spring.

• Inspect the bike in good light: oil, coolant or brake fluid leaks, cracked plastics, loose fasteners.
• Wash off dirt, salt and road-treatment residue, especially from the frame, swingarm, discs and chain. Let the bike dry completely.
• Check the chain: clean, lube and adjust tension per the owner's manual. On shaft or belt drive, inspect as the manual says.
• Look over the tyres for cracks, cuts, embedded objects and remaining tread. Check pressure against the manual.
• Assess brake pads, discs and lever travel. If the lever feels spongy, the pads are nearly gone or there is a leak, don't experiment: take the brakes to a workshop.
• Write down everything you noticed along with the mileage, so nothing gets forgotten by spring.