How to Hit the Road with Confidence this Motorcycle Season

May 12, 2026

For many Canadians, motorcycle season is something to look forward to. But before your first ride, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your gear and your bike are ready. A simple pre-season check can help reduce safety risks, avoid preventable breakdowns, and give you more confidence once you’re back on the road.

Here’s a closer look at the nine steps to getting your motorcycle ready for the season:

The nine step motorcycle inspection

With warmer weather comes the prime season for riding your motorcycle and enjoying the open roads. However, it’s important to inspect your motorcycle when you take it out of storage to ensure you’ll be able to ride safely throughout the season.

If you’re short on time, think of this as a 15- to 30-minute inspection that helps you catch common issues after storage, such as low tire pressure, a weak battery, or dry/cracked components. Of course, remember to always consult your owner’s manual when conducting this inspection. Additionally, bring your bike to a qualified mechanic for any maintenance you’re not comfortable completing yourself.

Step 1: Review your riding gear

Start with the equipment that protects you most:

Inspect your helmet for cracks, chips, or worn straps and padding
Check jackets, pants, gloves, and boots for damage, weak seams, and worn fasteners
Confirm everything still fits properly, especially if it’s been stored for months

If something is compromised, replacing it is the safer option than trying to make it work for one more season.

Step 2: Check on your tires

Tires can change during storage, even if they looked fine when you put the bike away. When you bring them out, check the following:

Check tread depth and look for dry rot or cracking on sidewalls
Confirm tire pressure and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI
Watch for uneven wear that may signal alignment or suspension issues

If your bike sat in one spot for a long time, pay extra attention to flat spots and overall tire condition.

Step 3: Inspect your brakes

When you take out your bike, always check your brakes to make sure they feel firm and consistent. Here are some tips on what you should do when checking your brakes:

Test front and rear brakes separately
Listen for squealing or scraping
Check pad thickness, brake lines, and brake fluid level

Replacing worn pads early can also help prevent damage to rotors, which can be more expensive to repair. If you’re unsure about your brakes, always consult with a licensed mechanic.

Step 4: Check and clean your chain

Though it may seem small, your chain is a key component for your motorcycle’s performance, and a neglected chain can affect performance and reliability. Be sure to:

Inspect for rust that must be cleaned off, stiff links, and wear
Clean and lubricate with oil as needed
Check chain slack and adjust based on your owner’s manual

If you’re not sure what normal slack looks like for your bike, your manual will usually provide a range, and a shop can confirm it quickly during a seasonal service.

Step 5: Change your fluids (and fuel)

If you didn’t change your oil before storage, consider doing it before your first ride.

Check your oil levels and quality, and change the oil if warranted
Check other fluids (as applicable), and top up to recommended levels
Look for signs of leaks beneath the bike as well as around hoses and seals

Also consider your fuel: if gas sat in the tank for months, follow your manufacturer’s guidance, especially if your bike is sensitive to stale fuel. If anything smells off or the bike runs rough, it’s worth having it checked before you head out.

Step 6: Inspect your kickstand

Did you know the tension spring in your kickstand can weaken in storage over the winter? A quick check of this will make sure that you don’t start the season with your bike falling over unexpectedly.

Confirm the kickstand spring tension is strong
Check that the stand feels stable and the hardware is secure
Make sure the bike sits solidly on level ground

Step 7: Test your battery

Battery issues are common after winter storage, and every time a battery goes dead, its lifespan shortens. Thus, when you’re getting your motorcycle ready for the season, be sure to check your battery thoroughly:

Confirm it holds a charge and starts reliably
Check terminals for corrosion and ensure connections are tight
If you store your bike long-term, a battery tender can help maintain battery life

If your bike starts slowly or struggles to crank, address it early and consider a replacement.

Step 8: Test your lights, signals, and controls

Once you’ve confirmed your battery is operational, check all the lights and gauges. After all, visibility and predictability are a big part of staying safe.

Check headlight (high/low beam), tail light, and brake light
Test turn signals and hazard lights
Confirm gauges and indicator lights are working properly
Do a quick function check: throttle response, clutch feel, horn, and mirrors

This step is also a good moment to check that nothing feels “stiff” after storage, such as controls that don’t return smoothly.

Step 9: Review your motorcycle insurance coverage

Once your bike and gear are ready, it’s a good time to confirm your motorcycle insurance is active and still fits your needs, especially if anything has changed since last season. Common changes include a new bike, new commute, more weekend trips, and added accessories.

Here are some items you’ll often want to look at during your insurance review:

Liability limits
Collision and comprehensive (e.g., theft, fire, vandalism)
Accessory coverage (if you’ve added upgrades or gear)
Discounts you may qualify for, such as claims-free history or bundling

Next steps for motorcycle insurance

If you’re unsure what applies to your situation, an insurance advisor can help you review your coverage and avoid gaps, so you can focus on enjoying the season.

Cowan Insurance Group® has a team of experienced insurance professionals who can make sure you are getting the right coverage to drive off into the sunset with confidence. If it’s time to look at your motorcycle insurance, give us a call at 1-866-912-6926 today for a free, no obligation quote!

Let’s get you out on the road this summer confident, safe, and protected.

Learn more about the AMO/LAS Personal Home and Auto Insurance program.