Before you ride your Indian Sport Chief, perform the pre-ride inspection as described in your Owner’s Manual. Read, understand and follow all of the instructions, warnings and safety precautions in the Owner's Manual and on all product labels. Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
When performing your pre-ride inspection, do the following:
1. Visually inspect the motorcycle, looking for debris, loose fasteners, leaks and worn components that may impair the vehicle’s operation.
2. Check the condition of the tires, looking for any sign of punctures or damage, and verify proper tread depth. Check the tire pressures and verify they are set to specification.
3. Inspect the brake pads and rotors, looking for corrosion, damage and leaks.
4. Inspect the suspension for leaks, debris and damage.
5. Examine the rear drive belt for wear or damage. Also check for proper belt tension. The drive belt deflection should measure 28 mm (1.1 in) at 10-lbs force.
6. Ensure the airbox system is fully sealed.
7. Inspect the fluid levels. Ensure the bike is level and in a well-ventilated area.
- Inspect the front brake reservoir for proper fluid level and add fluid as needed. Tip: A flashlight can be used to illuminate the reservoirs in dark areas.
- Inspect the fluid level in the rear brake reservoir near the right floorboard.
8. Inspect the engine oil level. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 30 seconds. Stop the engine.
- Using an assistant, hold the bike in an upright and level position.
- Clean the area around the dipstick.
- Remove the oil dipstick and wipe with a clean shop towel.
- Reinstall the oil dipstick fully and remove it to inspect the oil level.
- Add oil as needed to ensure the oil level is between the add and full marks. It is not necessary for the level to be all the way up to the full mark.
- Reinstall the dipstick and wipe up any residual oil.
9. Power on the bike to inspect the headlight low beam, high beam and passing lamp.
10. Operate the turn signals and hazard warning flashers.
11. Check the operation of the taillight, brake lights, left and right rear turn signals and license plate light.
12. Verify that the horn operates properly.
13. Check the steering for smooth operation from full left to full right.
14. Operate the brake and clutch levers, taking note of any binding or sticking.
15. Operate the throttle twist grip, to ensure there is no binding or sticking.
16. Check the rear brake pedal for binding or sticking.
17. Place the transmission in neutral and verify the neutral indicator illuminates in the instrument cluster.
18. Start the engine and verify the low oil pressure light is not illuminated.
19. Operate the side stand and verify smooth operation. Ensure the side stand indicator on the instrument cluster is functioning properly. Always retract the side stand fully before operating the motorcycle.
20. Before departing, ensure the preload is adjusted properly for the load and adjust your side mirrors as needed.
21. Finish by ensuring there is enough fuel for your trip.
For more information, see your authorized Indian Motorcycle Dealer. Find a dealer near you with the Dealer Locator.
Maintenance tips, procedures and specifications can be found in your Owner's Manual.
To find diagrams and replacement part numbers, use the online parts catalog.
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