1. | Check the amount of fuel in the tank and add fuel if required. | |
![]() Avoid spills. Slowly open fuel filler cap. Do not fill above bottom of filler neck insert, leaving air space for fuel expansion. Secure filler cap after refueling. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00028b) ![]() Use care when refueling. Pressurized air in fuel tank can force gasoline to escape through filler tube. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00029a) ![]() Stop the engine when refueling or servicing the fuel system. Do not smoke or allow open flame or sparks near gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00002a) NOTICE Do not spill fuel onto the motorcycle while refueling. Immediately wipe up fuel spills on your motorcycle. Fuel can cause damage to cosmetic surfaces. (00147b) | ||
2. | Adjust mirrors to proper riding positions. | |
3. | Check the oil level. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Checking Oil Level: VRSC Models. | |
4. | Check the coolant level. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Coolant Level. | |
5. | Check the controls to be sure they are operating properly. Operate the front and rear brakes, throttle, clutch and shifter. | |
6. | Check steering for smoothness by turning the handlebars through the full operating range. | |
![]() Be sure tires are properly inflated, balanced, undamaged, and have adequate tread. Inspect your tires regularly and see a Harley-Davidson dealer for replacements. Riding with excessively worn, unbalanced, improperly inflated, overloaded or damaged tires can lead to tire failure and adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00014b) | ||
7. | Refer to Specifications → Specifications: 2008 VRSC Models → Tire Pressures: 2008 VRSC Models . Check tire condition and pressure. Incorrect pressure will result in poor riding characteristics and can affect handling and stability. Adhere to tire specifications for correct inflation pressures to use. | |
![]() Be sure headlamp, tail and stop lamp and turn signals are operating properly before riding. Poor visibility of rider to other motorists can result in death or serious injury. (00478b) | ||
8. | Check all electrical equipment and switches including the stop lamp, turn signals and horn, for proper operation. | |
9. | Check for any fuel, oil or hydraulic fluid leaks. | |
10. | Check rear belt adjustment. | |
11. | Service your motorcycle as necessary. |