The BEST Motorcycle PRE RIDE CHECKLIST

The BEST Motorcycle pre ride checklist is just a quick money saving check of a few things on your bike. TCLOCS will keep your ride right, whether it be a Harley, a Yamaha, a Honda, or any other brand. If I had to pick one single money saver, for the love of good rubber, check your tire pressure and tread depth!
MSF LIST: bit.ly/MSFlist
TOOLS to assist your safety check:
tread depth gauge: amzn.to/2JKaceW
tire pressure gauge: amzn.to/2HGBKNj
air compressor: amzn.to/2sSnWuy
belt deflection tool: amzn.to/2JEfIfN
battery tender: amzn.to/2l8I1Z9
My Music:
In general: www.epidemicsou...
This video: outro music: "Cool Boarders 3"
Camera Gear:
Camera: amzn.to/2C1zEJm
Lens: amzn.to/2C4ozHK
Microphone: amzn.to/2Cr2wXa
Tripod: amzn.to/2CpiqBB
Tripod head: amzn.to/2Hn6oMH
The tripod and head are sold as a kit, too. Check the pricing!
MotoVlog Gear:
Helmet: amzn.to/2Fay4DZ
GoPro: amzn.to/2ByYMpQ
GoPro curved mount: amzn.to/2GkTvRW
Mic adapter: amzn.to/2BxYCyZ
Microphone: amzn.to/2Hok5Ld
Fur for mic: amzn.to/2ExMfpj
Extra GoPro gear:
Jaws: amzn.to/2CpM35K
Swivel mount: amzn.to/2Favjm1
Head strap: amzn.to/2HmDw7r
GoPro tripod: amzn.to/2Hn1q2s
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[@floydtemple9996]

Just had a buddy who knew his tire pressure was low and rode anyway. He was going 55 when it caused him to lose control of his bike. He is lucky to be alive today. He is an old school biker and he knew better. (Even admitted that it was totally his fault.)

[@TheHarleyTech]

Glad he’s ok!

[@stephanievoiret1213]

Swedish Harley’s J

[@haroldyazzie3538]

@@TheHarleyTech hello, can I leave the rain sock on when I ride even if it's not raining? Thx.

[@LoudValves]

Cage drivers saying " I didn't see you " is an admission of guilt in my country (careless driving is the charge) ...

[@tomc8273]

WE ALL need to be reminded from time to time. Thanks.

[@robbierussell9536]

I'm jealous John ..I just noticed your Sportster has SILVER DIAMOND GRIPS AND PEGS!!!!...MY Sportster s got Willie g-s on it cause. Harley only makes the black diamond...so that's what's on my switchback ..I don't understand why Harley quit making the silver diamonds .I'm not a fan of the black diamond grips... that's what they had..oh well yellow Sportsters ROCK!!!!

[@atlasbelow8605]

Love the videos. You inspired me to get enrolled into mmi after I retire from the military. Your videos are really making an impact on people’s lives. Keep it up bro!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks John, I appreciate that. There aren't many haters, but it's comments like this one that make those haters fade away!

[@donsvideos1985]

When I check my lights on my touring bike I use a bungee cord to pull the front brake lever while I am far enough back to see all the brake lights and a broom stick to push the rear brake pedal.. just a trick I figured out finally . Great information as usual John!!

[@DG-america]

Mista John, great as always. How's about a cleaning vid? Do's and don'ts, best for your paint and chrome cleaners and cloth. Maybe huh? 👍

[@HaXaW5150]

How could anyone dislike a safety video? Someone is trying to help you and you don't like it? Thanks, John for your info and time. Trying to make the hwy a better and safer place to ride is awesome of you. So I give you two big ole dirty thumbs up.

[@TheRPhelps24]

HaXaW 5150, maybe they were bummed about no intro clip yet lol

[@AleksiJoensuu]

People on the internet are weird. (Things I've learned from being on the internet since the 90s)

[@exexpat11]

HATE ALL MOTORCYCLISTS! HATE ALL HARLEY RIDERS! HATE ALL MECHANICS! (I am only speculating their motivations.)

[@isaachuerta]

Thanks a bunch!!! How about a video on progressive suspension,measuring and adjusting height,aswell picking the size for the bike,. Do you recommend adjusting height or just buy equal lenght shocks. Thanks Again Fantastic Videos!!😁

[@demoninthelight1]

Very useful video man. I also like the sporty.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man. I also like your name!

[@danielwatson5106]

This guy gives some really good info , i do not own a Harley as of yet I just retired and in shopping mode Street Glide Or Low rider , I subscribed to John's channel Thank's John

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thank you Daniel!

[@robertkerns9044]

Very helpful advice on the TCLOCKS check list John. Great job as usual. Your Brother of the road, Robert L Kerns-Columbus GA 😎

[@17ultralimited69]

Good advice is not harsh

[@boldbileg]

1:05 TCLOCS 2:10 Tires 4:24 Tire tread 5:09 Actual tire tread measurement 5:25 Controls 5:53 Lights 7:33 Chassis 8:45 Misc. checks and Stand 9:29 Battery and Oil

[@garylam6233]

Thanks Man You don’t realize how much you help even old geezers like me . If you don’t spin wrenches for a living and have little mechanical skills . Your info is very important and has probably saved lives and wear and tear on bull folds or checkbooks . Because fixing overlooked problems at dealerships makes them smile and the victim cry .LOL🤙🤙🤙🤙🤙

[@Spoodman85]

This is helpful. I read the owners manual and the pre ride checklist is exhausting especially if I did it every time I hopped on. Though I would do it! I'm definitely all about safety. I'm just glad I ran across this video. I'm a newbie and bought a scooter which I see requires less maintenance. But thank you for framing this. I'm kind of learning as I go.

[@danieltaylor2340]

I have a ultra limited 2017 the jiffy stand on my bike has a huge amount of play that makes me nervous. How would you check your stand for proper function and tightness? Thanks

[@BradMcCarty]

You don't suck, John. Thank you for not sucking.

[@exexpat11]

My local Dealer does a full safety check every time I change the oil or add an accessory. One accessory every half service interval. Temps where I live go up and down all the time especially in fall and early spring. I have to check tires in the garage every 48 hours outside of summer. Slowly going to full LEDs and signal relocate to make sure the lights are bright and reliable 100% of the time. I don't worry about controls as much as cable tension on all the controls. I like OEM New feel at all times. No loosy goosey. Change brake fluid every 2 years full replacement with Harley approved Juice - DOT Brake Juice won't do.

[@injectorrick3700]

90% of the bikes we get in, the rider complains about handling, check tires..... 15lbs or lower. What's up with people? I like a comment you made one time about charging people for airing tires. Guess we might do that.

[@shannonstiles8751]

I have that same bike Yellow and all. Black tinns going on soon though 👍🏾& 1275 ....

[@sirjhonson8218]

I bought a small pancake compressor from Harbor Freight for $39 . I had a $10 off coupon regular $49 . They last a long time if you leave it turned on . Mine have lasted about 5 years . I have had 3 . I let one set for over a year and it quit working.

[@lucianblack5509]

Hey Matt, how does it feel riding your bike with your 90 degree angle air cleaner? I’m think about getting one but reviews keep saying that they are constantly aware of it since it’s in the way. Ps. I have forward controls.... thoughts anyone???

[@Kyle-ue5uj]

That is my walk through on my 2004 xl1200c - I also check the petcock and choke function and about once every 3 months I pop the air cleaner and tank and check the status of the carb - stupid ethanol in our gas gumbs that carb up so quick

[@mikee994]

I have a good tire gauge and do check my tires but it's kind of a pain on my ultra (FLHTK) rear tire. Are there any 90 degree valve extenders that you recommend to make it easier to check the pressure? I was thinking of the kind that screw onto my existing valve stems.

[@konstantinkoneski3494]

Hello.What's the year and model of your Harley? It reminds me of the bike that Hulk Hogan (Wresler) has.

[@mckinnonerario2883]

Any tips to checking for exhaust leaks without a smoke machine? And/or getting aftermarket (vance and hines) pipes to seal easier? I've heard its hard and god damn im having trouble with their shitty little gaskets

[@shaunchigas5493]

Always check tire pressure. Tires are expensive and the correct pressure makes em last ...no doubt. Are those V&H Short Shots on that sportster? Look like it. Nice ride!

[@disht2]

Ive got an 05 xl1200c. I want to put those same apes and speedometer that you have but cant seem to find the speedometer. It looks like the same ones the 2018 iron 1200s have but not sure. Could you tell me where you got yours or shoot me a link. Thanks brother

[@The10man81]

Did you install that horn on your sporty or was it stock? My 07 883XLC has the one on the forks. Would like one like that I can get a custom cover for but not sure if I want to pull the trigger on it.

[@dilo777]

my uncle has a twin cam fat boy. his final drive belt went out, and when he went to get a new one, he found that a chain, and sprocket set was cheaper than a new belt....so he put a chain on, he said properly maintained it will last longer.....lol...he's old school so it fit him better anyway. I always find that story funny. not that I'm against belts or anything.....I have a belt drive bike, two shaft driven and a chain bike...but I always chuckle when he starts talking about it

[@peeonthe3rdrail414]

Great video as always, I find myself looking forward to Wednesdays now.

[@nickhildabridle1612]

Peeon the3rdrail I 100% concur with this comment.

[@gunnutbikenut6939]

Harley ran chains for a long time I just love it when these younger people haven’t experienced these things have had a chain lock up on me that was fun it’s a shame that they probably will never experience some of this stuff working on one along side the road at night just got rid of a hot rod wide glide that I was constantly working on and yes I bought a 15 deluxe with 500 miles on it yes getting tired of working on them but I have paid my dues been doing this for over 30 years now

[@robertlumsden942]

just took my 2018 heritage 114 in for my 1000 mile check. good talk with tech. nice when they share like you do. going to get some vance and hines pipes soon the eliminator 300. got to get a pro tuner too. if you get a chance could you go over them. never had them of course on older bikes. interesting though.

[@miguelescobedo5910]

How old can you safely ride on a tire? What’s the recommendation on replacing tires that have 3k miles on them but over 6 years on the bike?

[@DanielRyanScott]

Thanks for the reminder, my tire pressure was 5lbs low. I knew better, but at least I knew better enough to go and fix it when I was reminded of it.

[@timothymoriarty373]

Hey John don’t know if you did a video on this or not but how about an inspection video of the primary chain case and what to look for and possible chain adjustment video curious about the plastic self adjuster

[@dilligaf7677]

Bro, I love your videos! Stumbled across them by accident while looking for Sport Glide videos. Yours was one of the decision making ones for BUY BUY BUY! Ever since, and I'm still waiting for my FLSB, I've been watching your stuff regardless of what I'm looking for. Keep the good work going! Greets from beautiful Croatia!

[@johnthewolfheart8495]

Good videos man. Watching what you're putting out there makes me feel better about going to MMI in Arizona as soon as I figure out how to make it work with life. Need a big change in life! If you have any input about the school, I'd love to hear more or maybe in another video for you 😎 ~John

[@silverwiskers7371]

I've been riding street bikes for 41+ years and with all that time I don't claim to know everything having said this "videos" like you put out is as good as gold for bikers, remember, different opinions are valuable so thanks for your videos bro

[@Jnu925]

John, Thanks for not saying PMCS, 😂Ride on bro, ride on...

[@jeremyrobinson2219]

Tire pressure is a big one... this slipped my mind last season and my front tire wore each side and left the center line

[@DCyclemoto]

Great reminder, John! Just did this today before a ride.

[@donaldwallace7522]

Harley Davidson will last a lifetime if it just sits there and you never start it up.

[@rusnsc7622]

Thanks John, a great reminder...complacency can hurt REALLY bad!

[@gucci4871]

Bicycle pump good idea thanks

[@christrumbly]

Love the sportster vids, I'm sure I'm not the only one. You've also got me looking for a Bad Boy now....

[@TheHarleyTech]

The sporty is fun, but that Bad Boy...

[@jonathankitchens2588]

I always enjoy your vidjas brother! I wish you continued success for you and yours. Keep up the good work!

[@aeromaton]

Great channel. I took about 10 years off from riding. Recently found out I have leukemia so decided to have an end of life crisis and buy a Harley. Love it! I enjoy your videos. Great review for someone who hasn't ridden in a while (or a new rider).

[@exile730]

Good as ever, John Maxwell! Always good to get back to basics for sure. Thanks for the heads up and keep doing the do.

[@kevinhogan715]

Got my belt tensioner tester on ebay for about $10,00.

[@charlieryan1736]

Thanks for another helpful video

[@southsidecrew101]

Don’t be hating on my rocker cover leaks.

[@Mac1968ish]

Thanks Jon great video as usually

[@bTome9123]

I wonder how those short shot V&H would sound on a Night Train.

[@ThreeFaze]

T-CLOCS, mnice mnemonic. Thank you, John!

[@spacetrucker2952]

My 86 sportster is chain driven.

[@joglockaguinaga8229]

Takes too long I wanna ride, I really need to do it...lol

[@entiatmule3820]

funny you mention the mirror spinning around. just last week..... stay, mirror, stay!!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

happens to me all the time #evolife

[@tcatnat70]

Hey John, just came across your channel a few days ago and binge-watched about 20 videos, great stuff. What turn signal relocation clamps are you rockin' on your Sportster fork? I'm looking to do the same on my FXDC pretty soon and like the look you have. Thatnks for all the Harley goodness.

[@TheHarleyTech]

It’s from drag specialties. They’re decent.

[@seanthomas753]

Someone disliked this video? Come on...

[@moustachemike7128]

Kinda related to this..check your registration date..lol Don't ask... also good rule : Change the batt at least every 3yrs .... And if ya have it: the tool kit...Good Vid..Lots to work with..Oooh for got one: Give the spokes a looking over..might be loose or broken....cheers...

[@TheHarleyTech]

I still haven’t put my new registration sticker on my tag....

[@kevinweiss2393]

Love the videos, really good practical advice. Just had my local dealer do the 1k on my 2018 Fatbob, so I have 1100 miles on the tires and I noticed a nail in the back tire, it’s holding pressure so I just happened to see the nail. Can I safely repair the tire with one of those vulcanized tire plugs?

[@randymiller1763]

Found it best to put a tire patch on the inside of the tire.

[@mathflhr]

I don't have a high or upper oil tank

[@Patrickjohnphotography]

John, Great video. I have 2 questions. 1) the tire said 40, Harley said 30?? split the difference? or has Harley Proved that their numbers are the ones for longest lasting tires??? Open oil check??? is it safe for us to do that AND what are the markers that let you see if it has the right amount of oil in it????

[@Patrickjohnphotography]

Fantastic editing on your videos. I do it for a living, so this is not a hollow compliment.

[@staceyeaton6869]

I have been watching your videos all day (mostly because I just got my new Street Glide and stuck at work and cant ride), but anyway, I run a safety and mentorship program where I am. I would love to talk to you via email and get your permission to use your videos as training aids. Anyway we can do this?

[@TheHarleyTech]

[e-mail]

[@mikeessary7691]

Well done JM!! A big big greasy thumbs up!

[@taniapenafielbermudez1602]

What year is your sporty John?

[@carloscastillo-vm8tu]

what seat you got on this sportster?

[@JasonThe_13th]

always a good reminder!

[@officeradams30]

Awesome video 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@paulsullivan931]

Hey John, thank you another cool vlog,I do those checks every week a very good habit to get into,that way you catch any problems early and avoid expensive disasters.Looking forward to your next vlog,always fun.😃👍

[@TheHarleyTech]

glad you enjoyed it Paul. I'm also glad you already know to do it!

[@BaggerBro]

Dude no BS, i was at Ace Cafe sitting on my bike and a guy next to me got on his street bob. I just so happened to be looking at his front tire as he sat on the bike and noticed the tire flexing... dude i stopped him right in his tracks , got off my bike , walked to his front tire and was able to push down and touch the wheel ... smh ..... I was kind of upset in the tone of my voice as I let him know that he had no pressure in his tire.... Some people out there just have a death wish......

[@TheHarleyTech]

You have no idea. I bet I get 3 bikes a day like that. Good on you for looking out for him!

[@jschoneger]

More like to damn lazy.

[@cigarsboozeandnews9726]

The problem is, when they go down they might take someone with them.

[@brianhorn9249]

You need to make more videos. I have already gone through all of your other ones. More, More, More!!!

[@TheHarleyTech]

I wish I had the time!

[@jontiffinphoto]

Best motorcycle vlogger out there!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks Jon! Perhaps you're a little biased over the name, though...I don't judge!

[@brian3013]

I do agree!!

[@julespeace684]

Love your vids. Didn't ride for 15 years...I bought a new to me/used 2015 FLSTFB not happy the rear brake is way to forward to my liking... Any suggestions? Help please. Peace

[@1jasonover]

I was kinda hoping you would cover hot vs cold tire pressure check. Is it ok to fill tire to target psi while tires are completely cold? thx

[@TheHarleyTech]

You’re supposed to do tires cold. I probably should cover that.

[@dustwillkese]

I was in a motorcycle accident with my little girl on the back and dude said he didn't see me... Then shortly later admits that HE NEVER EVEN LOOKED... Now because he NEVER LOOKED I'm out big money ... I sold my 99 fxdx to buy a 07 road king and had it all of 3 and a half months before it was totalled... Now my summer is screwed ... Sucks.. However highway bars saved my legs and watching tires saved me from the worse day of my life...

[@metlmuncher]

Be harsh.. Stay alive... PS. don't put tiny little tinted lights on your bike..... Love your vids man!!!

[@antoniogranillo1458]

I wish I had seen this video last week. My springer may still have a left mirror if I knew to check controls....

[@TheHarleyTech]

Bruh. #evolife

[@antoniogranillo1458]

U rite. it was tight when I left that morning...

[@dejonsmall9886]

Hey John, thanks for the video. When it comes to tire pressure, I check mine once a week, riding or not. I have the HD mini compressor. Iy's in my saddle bag at all times. One request for us Bagger Guys with stock mag wheels. On my 2012 FLHTK and the 09 RK that I had, that it's a bitch to get the hose on the front valve stem. Maybe a quick vid on offset valve stems, pros and cons. Oh yeah, I'm heading to AZ and get a thread depth gauge now...

[@davidrios6839]

Where are at dude

[@2bad1]

You make the best videos

[@waynecasey6375]

right on about the tire pressure...I constantly see people riding bikes with low tire pressure and I always tell them to air up. Usually people are glad I stopped to tell them and they say something like " I thought something felt weird about the way the bike is handling"....very important...nice job John!

[@yamahatracergt5579]

Hey John good video.Would be great though if you did a detailed video of some major stuff like clutch replacement on a twin cam or 103 to 110 kit or cam and adjustable push rods,stuff like that would be awesome.

[@robertlivingston4125]

This comment has nothing to do with your video but I was just wondering if you plan on going to Adam Sandoval's ride to break the Guinness World Records in September?

[@juggalofrenzie]

I was wondering if you could do a quick video on post long term storage services on your sporty. I am coming home from deployment in a weeks and would like to know some of the basic things to run through and check before riding. Also you have a great channel i hope you keep it up . Thank you for all the info and advice you have already given. Also any advice on MMI you can give would be greatly appreciated. I am starting MMI at fort bliss next semester.

[@darrylk27]

O'Reilly's kicks ass

[@fatbob785]

Started having random electrical power failure everything goes off (lights Speedo etc) on the bike even the engine dies can't seem to pin it down to one specific reason sometimes first thing when cold another when cornering or more annoyingly when overtaking, and now dying on tick over, strangely after it has happened indicators won't cancel for a while and tick over goes up to about 2 1/2 thousand revs, any thoughts or ideas as to what it could be please. On my 2012 fatbob thanks

[@moorshound3243]

this is great advice, I do all this but nothing works on my bike. HD are picking it up today I hope, indicators flash on their own turn themselves on & off so I took the bulbs out, neutral light doesn't come on, throttle does not snap back, the bike starts up from just turning the ignition on? really bad noise when pulling clutch in, oil leak on the front jug, what else oh yea the rear brake disc needs replacing. Now can you see why I want you to come to the UK & work on my bike!!

[@lancedolan5821]

Great video man, I'm a pretty experienced rider and mechanically inclined but I still enjoy watching all of your videos, back when I was a nub you almost had to be embarrassed to ask questions about something basic cause alot of the experienced riders would get pissy or treat you like a dumb ass so I learned everything the hard way or just taught myself. keep up the good work brother, the videos are awesome.

[@benjaminbryant9882]

Could you help answer the question of just cutting out the baffling on stock slipons for a FI 103 or newer and what it does please? Need to settle a few disputes and im sure you could have fun with this.

[@judywillis2345]

Everytime a pilot goes to fly a small plane there's a checklist. It takes time. Same thing here. Thanks a lot! You rock!!!

[@douglastanney2509]

Nice video. Another question. Have you experienced or know about the dreaded “wobble”?

[@stytos]

I just added some of your recommended items my list on Amazon for when I make my next purchase; along with some leather conditioner as I just bought a new seat from C&C Seats. :D . Thanks for the much appreciated video!

[@dianedenroche1496]

Always love the information you give. As a women rider, that is awesome stuff!! Thanks John PS...I'm not getting a trike!! lol

[@Bolt5520]

NICE!! Thanks for the reminder. Can you do something on Fork seals on a sportster. I can't seem to find much info on this subject such as how to's. Thanks

[@TDcity]

What are your thoughts on dry rot? Is any signs of it enough for you to change out tires?

[@antoniogranillo1458]

I've been riding for about 17-18 years now and the only reason I've gone down is because I had a bad tire(I was sixteen and was getting a tire the next day anyway) and when I was run off the road. My motto is to never run the risk of having a bad tire. The moment I see dry-rot or any sign of low tread, I change them. Better safe than injured!

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Definitely a good tip video before ridding. Better to be safe than sorry.. Thank you for taking the time to do they awesome videos John. And here’s your dirty dumb up 👍🏻

[@skullfan33]

Great video again!!! How bout blow the horn quick lol awesome video as always!