Before starting a trip, what should you check while walking to the motorcycle?

Checking the tires and air pressure before starting a trip is crucial for ensuring your safety and the performance of your motorcycle. Proper tire inflation affects handling, braking distance, and overall stability. Under-inflated tires can lead to poor handling, increased tire wear, and even blowouts, especially at higher speeds or on long rides. It's important to check not only the tire pressure but also the general condition of the tires, looking for any signs of damage, such as cracks or worn tread.

While it's vital to check oil and gas levels for the functionality of the motorcycle, and the brake levers and controls for safety, ensuring your tires are well-prepared is often regarded as a priority because they are your only contact with the road. Cleanliness can impact visibility and comfort, but it does not directly impact safety in the same way a proper tire check does.