What is an essential check for motorcycle safety before a ride?

Inspecting tire pressure is crucial for motorcycle safety before a ride because properly inflated tires significantly impact handling, stability, and braking distance. Under-inflated tires can lead to poor traction, increased wear, and the potential for blowouts, especially at high speeds. Conversely, over-inflated tires can reduce the contact area with the road, compromising grip and making the motorcycle feel unstable.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure ensures optimal performance and safety, making it an essential pre-ride check. While checking engine temperature, adjusting mirrors, and cleaning the windscreen contribute to overall safe riding, they do not have the same immediate impact on handling and safety as ensuring proper tire pressure does.