Motorcycle Inspection after an Accident, Collision or Fall
Warning Maintenance - Motorcycle in Accident/Fall
If the motorcycle is involved in an accident, collision or fall, it must be carefully inspected and repaired before being used again.
Damage may not be obvious. Even apparently minor damage may conceal more serious concerns, inspect all signs of damage carefully.
Items such as fairings, bodywork, engine covers and other components may require removal prior to inspection.
Damaged components may require removal from the motorcycle for further inspection or measurement to fully assess the extent of any damage.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of areas that should be inspected when assessing accident damage.
Check wheel alignment for signs of a damaged or twisted main frame or damaged suspension.
Check the main frame for any damage including twisting or cracking of materials or welds.
Check front forks for any bending.
Check wheels for any tyre, rim or spoke damage. Tyre removal may be required.
Check for damage to extremities (levers, mirrors, handlebars and end weights, footrests (including bank angle indicators), silencers, etc).
Check the functionality of all controls, throttle, clutch, brakes, gear selection, electronic functionality.
Check lighting, braking and indicator functionality (if fitted).
Check for any fluid leaks (engine oil, final drive oil, fuel, coolant, brake fluids).
Check for bodywork damage.
Check for correct torque or damage (including bolt bending) of fasteners including frame to engine bolts, brake calliper bolts, wheel axle bolts, fork pinch bolts.
Check for any stored Diangostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Clear the DTCs and check if the DTC reappears. Investigate the component giving rise to the DTC.