After the Tet Lunar New Year, it is an ideal time for groups to start their tours as the weather is pleasant and the number of tourists has decreased compared to during Tet. So, before embarking on these trips, what should bikers prepare for a safer and more convenient journey?
After Tet is a perfect time to travel
Check and maintain the vehicle before the trip
Before each tour, every biker needs to inspect their vehicle to prevent unexpected breakdowns on the road. Therefore, vehicle maintenance at this time is of utmost importance. The essential equipment that needs to be checked and maintained includes:
1. Tires
Check the tire surface and tire pressure before setting off
Tires are components that can wear out, so before embarking on each long journey, users should check if the tire wear is appropriate for the tour’s duration and replace them if necessary. Additionally, pay attention to any cracks or signs of “pregnancy” on the tires to prevent punctures and tire damage while driving.
2. Brake pads, brake discs, and brake fluid
The brake system plays a crucial role in ensuring the users’ safety while driving. Therefore, before each tour, bikers should thoroughly inspect these two parts. If the brake pads are nearly worn out or the brake discs have scratches, they need to be replaced to ensure proper brake functioning and prevent brake failures.
Replace the brake pads if they are almost worn out
In addition, users should also pay attention to the brake fluid level to avoid insufficient or excessive fluid, which can lead to brake failures.
3. Coolant
Coolant plays a crucial role in cooling the engine and preventing overheating during operation. If there is an insufficient amount of coolant in the reservoir, the cooling effect will be reduced, causing the engine to operate below its designed capacity due to overheating.
Add or replace the coolant to ensure effective engine cooling
Therefore, before every trip, users should check the coolant level in the reservoir and replenish it if necessary. Simultaneously, observe the coolant reservoir for any signs of water leakage or bent aluminum leaves to take timely action.
4. Chain sprocket
The chain sprocket is another component that can wear out. Cleaning and maintaining the chain sprocket, as well as adjusting the chain tension, contribute to the bike’s smooth operation and optimal performance, preventing chain slippage or looseness.
Cleaning and maintaining the chain improve the bike’s performance
5. Engine oil change
If the engine oil has been regularly changed, users should also consider whether it needs to be changed before the tour. If an oil change is necessary during the journey, users should promptly change the oil to ensure optimal engine performance.
Essential items to bring
Preparing essential items for the tour will help bikers be more proactive in minor accidents.
1. Basic tools for vehicle repair
Depending on the type of bike used, each person will know the necessary tools for repairing their bike, such as screwdrivers, wrench sets, sockets, and pliers with sizes corresponding to the nuts on the bike.
Basic tools for vehicle repair
2. Emergency tire repair kit and pump
During long trips, tire punctures or failures may occur. To be more prepared in case of such incidents, users should bring an emergency tire repair kit to temporarily fix the tire before replacing it completely at the next rest stop.
Based on the bike’s tires, users can purchase the corresponding tire repair kit
3. First aid kit
While no one wishes for accidents to occur, users should also prepare some basic first aid supplies to be able to administer first aid to themselves or assist fellow travelers in case of unexpected accidents.
First aid kit (Illustration)
Physical fitness
Before embarking on each long journey, bikers need to ensure that they have eaten, drunk, and rested adequately to prepare for the tour. Long-distance riding can be exhausting, so having sufficient rest helps riders stay alert and maintain better reflexes while driving, avoiding drowsiness or extreme fatigue that can lead to accidents.