Falls happen — especially in the beginning. Sometimes it’s a silly tip-over at low speed; other times it’s a slip that scares more than it hurts.
Before riding off as if nothing happened, it’s worth doing a quick and objective check. Small damage can go unnoticed and turn into a risk just a few kilometers later.
Your body comes first: stop and check yourself
Before looking at the bike, look at yourself.
- Pain that increases over time, dizziness, or difficulty moving call for a pause. - Torn gloves, jacket, or pants indicate a stronger impact than it seemed. - If there’s any doubt, don’t ride. The bike can wait; your body can’t.
Handlebar, triple clamp, and overall alignment
With the bike turned off, stand in front of it.
- The handlebar should be straight when the front wheel is straight. - Turn the handlebar side to side: the movement must be smooth, without binding. - If the bike “pulls” to one side when pushing it, there may be misalignment.
A stationary fall often bends the handlebar easily, even without obvious marks.
Brakes and levers: immediate response
Squeeze the levers while stopped.
- The brake lever should not touch the grip. - The response must be firm, without sinking too much. - The rear brake pedal must not be bent or scraping.
Watch for leaks
- Look for fluid dripping near the calipers or hoses. - Any brake fluid leak is a reason not to ride.
Wheels, tires, and suspension
Here the risk is silent.
- Check for dents in the rim or cuts in the tire. - See if the wheel spins freely, without wobbling side to side. - Compress the suspension: it should move up and down without clicks or binding.
A leaking suspension or damaged tire doesn’t go with “just to get home.”
Controls and foot pegs in the right place
Falls usually hit what sticks out the most.
- Foot pegs should fold and return normally. - The gear lever and brake pedal must not be bent to the point of hindering use. - The throttle must snap back on its own when you release it.
A sticking control is an invitation to a scare at the first intersection.
Engine, exhaust, and strange noises
Start the bike and listen.
- New, metallic noises or different vibrations deserve attention. - Check for a strong fuel smell or smoke outside the normal range. - A very bent exhaust can touch the swingarm or other parts.
If something “doesn’t sound right,” trust your intuition and stop.
Lights, turn signals, and mirrors
Being seen is also safety.
- Test the headlight, tail light, brake light, and turn signals. - Mirrors should allow adjustment and not rotate on their own.
A light fall can easily break a bulb — and riding invisible increases risk.
When in doubt, don’t ride
For those just starting out, the rule is simple: if you feel unsure, don’t go.
Pushing the bike, asking for help, or calling transport is cheaper than dealing with another fall caused by something that went unnoticed. Safety, after a spill, starts with the decision to check everything calmly.
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