Recommended check ups before a long canyon ride?

[chandra.hp]

Hello everyone,

I've been doing more and more riding on my GS500 lately and I've been wondering what are some things I should check before each major ride.... namely when I'm doing canyon riding on the weekends.

I know I have to check the tire tread and air pressure. Make sure the chain is lubed... make sure you have enough fuel... what else? I check all the lights, and the horn. Is there anything else I should be paying attention to on a regular basis?

Also... how do I clean my chain? Do I have to remove it? And what do I clean it with?

That is all, thank you for your help and advice. It is highly appreciated.
Chandra

[scratch]

Chain cleaning is probably best done with one of the following -
1. Kerosene, with a catch pan and soft bristle toothbrush.  Pour the kerosene into the catch pan and dip the brush in and simply, but gently, clean your chain over the catchpan.
(Personally, I use a Grunge Brush)
2. WD40 and a clean rag.  Wipe off all the excess (chain lube, too).

Clean the sprocket too.

I like to make sure the bolts holding the front fender are tight.  Then check speedo and tach cables (both ends).  Bar ends.  Mirrors.  The brake lever adjustment pivot nut.  Chain adjuster nuts and the chain slack (also, check your chain slack when you get back and lube it again).

[ukchickenlover]

You should also check oil level and brake fluid level and look for any oil or brake fluid leaks. Also as you first drive away check both brakes work.

[chandra.hp]

Kerosine? Where do I get that at? Or do you mean gasoline? And WD40? Is that the recommended chain lube or the special one I bought from the motorcycle shop.

Sorry... I'm a total newb to this. Please bear with me.

Thanks again,
Chandra

[manofthefield]

Kerosene is another petroleum product like gasoline or diesel or....  You can get it from certain gas stations from a pump or maybe in a can from a hardware store or something.  WD-40 can be used instead of Kerosene because it is a similar , though kerosene is the recomended cleaner.  After cleaning with either of these, then apply your fancy, expensive chain lube/wax. 

[Cal Amari]

Which canyons are local to you? I'd avoid the more popular ones, especially on the weekends, or you'll spend more time dodging the squidly types than actually riding and developing your skills...

Let us know where you ride / rode, and how things turned out... we might be able to suggest some alternate roads...

[chandra.hp]

I haven't found any kerosene anywhere nearby. Looks like I'll have to use WD40 for the time being.

And how do I check my oil level? Sorry... the bike didn't come with a owners manual since I bought it used.

And I'm in Southern California... so I'm usually doing Ortega Highway (route 74), Angeles Crest Highway (route 2), Azusa Canyon/Glendora Mountain Road, and one other canyon... not sure what it's called... exit The City Drive off the 5 Freeway and make a right... then first left... then go straight and into the canyon you go!

[chris in va]

The oil level dipstick is attached to the filler cap on the right side of the motor.  Have a friend hold the bike level when you check it.

[speedyts49]

I think the local OSH hardware sells Kerosene by the gallon in a plastic container.  I use it for my chain cleaning.