Spring is finally on the horizon, and if you’re like most Canadian riders, you’ve beenstaring at your bike all winter, counting down the days until the roads are clear. But before you roll out of the garage, you should do a little spring prep to make sure your bike—and your gear—are ready for the season ahead.

Here are 5 things every rider should do before their first ride of the year:

1. Charge Your Battery (Or Replace It If It’s Dead)

If your bike has been sitting all winter, chances are your battery needs a little love. Cold temperatures and long storage periods drain power, so grab a trickle charger and bring it back to life. If it won’t hold a charge or struggles to turn over,it’s time for a new one.

Pro Tip: Invest in a battery tender to keep it charged over the off-season next time!

2. Change Your Oil 

Even if you changed the oil at the end of last season, it’s a good habit to start fresh in the spring. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its ability to protect your engine—especially after sitting through a long winter.

Pro Tip: Always follow the manufactures recommendations for oil, filter and torque specs. If you are not confident in what you are doing, make sure to book into your local shop soon as they get busy once the thermometer hits double digits.

3. Check Your Tire Pressure & Look for Cracks/Bulges

Tires can lose pressure over time, and cold weather only makes it worse. Riding on underinflated tires kills your handling and wears them out faster—not to mention it’s dangerous.

What to Check:

•Tire pressure – Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (it’s on your swing-arm, frame or owner’s manual). Don't use the pressure range on the tire, but make sure the manufacturers recommendation is within the tires range. 

•Cracks, bulges, or flat spots – If your tires look like they’ve seen better days,replace them before you ride.

4. Check Your Helmet’s Manufactured Date (It Might Be Time for a New One)

Helmets don’t last forever. Most manufacturers recommend replacing your helmet after 5 years of use, even if it looks fine. Over time, the materials inside break down gap, from sweat and UV, reducing protection in a crash.

Where to Check: Themanufacturing date is inside the helmet liner. If your helmet is past its prime,upgrade before the season starts.

5. Check Your Brake Pads (Because Stopping Is Important, Too)

Your bike might run perfectly, but if your brakes are shot, you’re in for a bad time. Worn brake pads meanlonger stopping distances and less control, especially in emergency situations.

What to Look For:

•If yourbrake pads are thinner than 3mm or worn to the indicator lines, replace them.

•If they’reunevenly worn orglazed over, swap them out.

Brakes are cheap. Don’t ignore this one.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready, Ride Safe

Spring prep isn’t just about making sure your bike runs—it’s about making sure you ride safely and confidently all season long. A few simple checks now cansave you from headaches (and breakdowns) later.

☑Battery charged

☑Fresh oil

☑Tires good to go

☑Helmet still safe

☑Brakes ready for action

Once you’ve got everything dialled in, it’s time to ride. Where’s your first trip this season? Drop a comment and let us know! 👇🏍️