New York Chapter "W"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association

Rochester, NY

Rider Education Information by Gary Mandak

Riding Educator, New York Chapter "W"

Using fall for your spring ride

Now that we are coming to the end of the riding season, it is the ideal time to take inventory of our rides. We have talked in the past on pre-ride checks for the first ride of the season, now is the time for post season checks on our bikes.

Tires

I am sure you have been checking your tires all season for tread and side wall condition and more importantly, the correct air pressure. How did your tires feel? Do you need a different compound of tire to better fit the needs of your riding style? If your tires are marginal, use this time in the oncoming off-season to take the bike to a dealer and have those skins, re-skinned. It will save the unnecessary wait in the spring when everyone else wants to do the same thing. New skins may save your hide.

Brakes

How did your brakes feel this season? Did they stop as well as new, or don't you remember. If your brakes feel like they are grabbing or losing efficiency, check them or have them checked at the dealer. Your brakes may have slowly degraded to a point, which you think they are as good as new. Don't let bad brakes stop your ride.

Seat

How did your seat feel to you on longer rides? Does your tush need more cush? Did your behind go numb way too early? Did you feel uncomfortable when stopping because you were on your tippy toes? It may be time to investigate a new or lower type seat. Many aftermaket seats are more suited for long distance riding than your present seat. If it feels good, then don't do it!

Maintenance

When was your bike last serviced or maintained? If it is overdue, the fall may be a good time to get caught up on those overlooked or overdue items.

There are many other items to check and now is an ideal time to take note of your bike. Take inventory on what you would like to have done to make it more comfortable and safer for next year. When you take your fall rides, bring a sheet of paper and make a checklist of items to be addressed, instead of waiting until next spring to remember what you forgot. Review your owner's manual as well to compare to your notes. Correct these items in the fall so you can spring into spring on your Goldwing.

Practice Safe Riding

Gary Mandak

Chapter "W" Educator