We’re not tempting fate… but it does feel like the worst of winter is finally easing off.
There’s that lighter evening glow. A touch of warmth in the air. The quiet promise of proper riding days ahead.
And for many of us, that means one thing: it’s nearly time to get the bike out.
Whether you’ve battled through winter commutes or your bike’s been tucked under a cover since October, this is the moment we start thinking: Right… let’s go.
But before you grab the keys and fire her up, ask yourself one simple question:
Is the bike actually ready to ride?
After a few months standing still, even the most reliable machine needs a bit of attention.
That’s where a quick POWDERS check comes in.
The POWDERS Pre-Ride Check
A simple, memorable checklist recommended by the Department for Transport:
P – O – W – D – E – R – S
Petrol
Check you’ve got enough fuel to get going. Old fuel can degrade over time, so topping up with fresh petrol is a good idea if it’s been sitting a while.
Oil
Pull the dipstick. Check the level. Top up if needed. Simple – but vital.
Water
Check coolant levels and look over hoses for cracks or splits caused by cold weather. Make sure everything’s secure.
Drivetrain
Chains hate sitting still in damp conditions. Clean it, lube it properly with motorcycle chain lube and give it time to soak in.
Tip: do this the day before your first ride – don’t spray and go.
Electrics
Indicators. Headlights. Brake lights. Horn. Dash lights.
Make sure everything works – and clean the lenses while you’re there.
Rubber
Tyres lose pressure over winter. Inflate them to the correct PSI (check your manual).
Look for cracks, bulges or flat spots. Remember, legal tread depth for motorcycles over 50cc is at least 1mm across three-quarters of the tread around the entire circumference. We recommend 2mm
Stopping
Check your brakes properly. Good resistance at the lever. No dragging. Pads and discs in decent condition.
If in doubt, get a mechanic to cast an eye over it. Brakes aren’t worth guessing.
And One More Thing… The Battery
If it’s been idle for months, it’ll probably need charging.
Avoid jump-starting from a car – the higher voltage can cause damage.
A motorcycle battery charger or optimiser is a far better long-term investment.
Ready for That First Ride?
A 10-minute check now beats a breakdown (or worse) later.
Spring riding is one of the best feelings there is – fresh air, open roads, lighter evenings. Let’s make sure the first ride of the season is smooth, safe and stress-free.
Now… time to check the weather forecast and hope the British spring behaves itself.
Ride safe. See you out there.