Pre-ride checklist: what to check on a rental motorcycle

The bike

Check these at walking pace before you leave the street.

• Brakes, front and rear: firm, not spongy.
• Clutch and throttle move and return smoothly.
• Tyres: tread, cuts and pressure.
• Chain tension and lubrication; sprockets not worn into hooks.
• Lights, horn, indicators and mirrors.
• Fuel level — note it so you know what to bring back.

Existing damage

Walk round the bike with the shop and photograph scratches, dents and broken parts. It avoids disagreements when you return it.

The paperwork

• The bike's documents are with the bike.
• Rate, deposit and return time are written down.
• You have a phone number that reaches someone if you have a problem.

Your own gear

• A helmet that fits properly — ask what the shop provides.
• Gloves and eye protection.
• Warm and waterproof layers if you are heading into the hills.

The conversation

Tell the shop where you're going. A good shop will tell you if the bike you picked is the wrong one for that route — ours will.