Triumph Thunderbird - Safe Operation; Daily Safety Checks

40
General Information
Safe Operation
Daily Safety Checks
Check the following items each day before
you ride. The time required is minimal, and
these checks will help ensure a safe, reliable
ride.
If any irregularities are found during these
checks, refer to the Maintenance and
Adjustment section or see your authorized
Triumph dealer for the action required to
return the motorcycle to a safe operating
condition.
Check:-
Fuel: Adequate supply in tank, no fuel leaks
(page 31 ).
Engine Oil: Correct level on dipstick. Add
correct specification oil as required. No leaks
from the engine or oil cooler (page 63).
Drive Belt: Correct adjustment. No
damage/cuts, frayed edges, or broken
teeth (page 81).
Tires/Wheels: Correct inflation pressures
(when cold). Tread depth/wear, tire/wheel
damage, punctures etc. (page 87).
Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners: Visually check that
steering and suspension components, axles,
and all controls are properly tightened or
fastened. Inspect all areas for loose/damaged
fixings.
Steering Action: Smooth but not loose from
lock to lock. No binding of any of the control
cables (page 78).
Brakes: Pull the brake lever and push the
brake pedal to check for correct resistance.
Investigate any lever/pedal where the travel is
excessive before meeting resistance, or if
either control feels spongy in operation
(page 73).
Brake Pads: There should be more than
0.06 in (1.5 mm) of friction material
remaining on all brake pads (page 73).
Brake Fluid Levels: No brake fluid leakage.
Brake fluid levels must be between the MAX
and MIN marks on both reservoirs (page 75).
Front Forks: Smooth action. No leaks from
fork seals (page 80).
Throttle: Throttle grip free play
0.08 - 0.12 in (2 - 3 mm). Ensure that the
throttle grip returns to the idle position
without sticking (page 69).
Clutch: Smooth operation and correct cable
free play (page 72).
Coolant: No coolant leakage. Check the
coolant level in the expansion tank (when the
engine is cold) (page 66).
Electrical Equipment: All lights and horn
function correctly (page 26).
Engine Stop: Stop switch turns the engine
off (page 42).
Stands: Return to the fully up position by
spring tension. Return springs not weak or
damaged (page 35).
Warning
Failure to perform these checks every day
before you ride may result in serious
motorcycle damage or an accident causing
serious injury or death.
cbob