Ride Log 5 - 12 May 09 & TCLOCS

This last week has been wonderful riding weather. It has been getting progressively warmer and sunny. Of course those of you who've been riding here know that. My commute has been enjoyable and without significant incedent. UDOT has started construction on highway 201 between Bangerter and 56th west to add a lane both ways. It hasn't been too big of a disruption thus far, but this morning an accident at 56th west diverted me to the surface roads and kept me in the saddle for an extra 20 minutes. I didnt' mind that too much other than I was hoping to get to work a little early and my butt was getting pretty tired by the time I got there.

In keeping with my desire to include interesting motorcycle topics, I've chosen to discuss "TCLOCS." TCLOCS is a mneumonic for remembering the components of the pre-ride inspection: Tires and wheels, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chasis, Stands. Just like good car care, we should do a regular and frequent check of our bikes before we ride. Unfortunately, most of us don't do a very good job of making a thorough inspection of our cars on a weekly basis as recommended. Therefore, I doubt we do any better with our bikes. I know it is difficult for me to remember to take the time to do. I'm trying to commit myself to doing better though. My perception may be wrong, but it seems that a failure on my bike that could have been prevented by regular inspection, is likely to be much more dangerous that one on my car. For example, I would hate to be going down the freeway and lose my chain or blow a tire on my bike.

TCLOCS is a thorough inspection process. It doesn't take too long. In fact. If you get in the habit, you can do almost half the inspection in about 1 minute every time you get on your bike. If your good at giving your bike a weekly bath during the riding season, then it becomes a natural part of your bike care. Follow this link to the MSF Library for a form that lays out all the components of the TCLOCS inspection. I hope this is helpful as you get your head in the wind... and keep the shiny side up.