New RIder Questions

Hello Folks!

Some pretty rudimentary questions here--I hope you guys don't mind. I just bought an '82 Maxim, my first bike, and I'm lovin' it!! Commuting to work, cruising around town, so far so good. I don't know anyone else with a bike though, so there are some pretty fundamental/common sense type things that I have yet to learn. Perhaps someone could weigh in?

1) Is there some kind of basic routine inspections I should perform every time I get on the bike?

2) Is there any kind of noise or sensation that I should be especially paying attention to as I ride, which would signify my impending doom?

Basically, I just realize every time I'm on the highway that there is an incredibly slim margin between my well being and a big splat, so I'd like to be aware of any potential failures.

Oh yeah 3) When I start the bike, in gear and clutch disengaged, the bike lunges forward a couple inches. Also, when I shift from neutral to 1st, the bike lunges forward a bit. Is this normal, or a sign that my clutch is not completely disengaging? It does not creep forward or anything, just that initial lunge.

Thanks in advance for your help!!

 

tires oil brakes and of course gas.

watch out for shakes especially at high speed. you never know what the previous owner did to the bike or didnt. nothing like a safe ride . just watch out for every 1 else. they arent watching out for you.

mine does the same thing , i always try to start in neutral of poss. its always done that a little. i think its pretty normal for a bike that old.

hope this helps somewhat. depending on when / where you got it. i would do an oil change , check the brakes. oil filter. and of course check the codes on the tires. they may look great and be 20yo