Content Source: 2020 Indian Scout Bobber / Bobber 20 Owner’s Manual (9931167 ) > Pre-Ride Inspections Chapter

IMPORTANT

The Owner's Manual for this vehicle contains warnings, instructions and other information you must read and fully understand before safely riding or performing maintenance on this vehicle.Always follow the warnings and instructions in Owner's Manual.

Click the CONTENTS link above for the Table Of Contents, or download a full PDF of the Owner Manual in the Owner Support area of Polaris.com

Overview

To keep your motorcycle in safe operating condition, always perform the recommended pre-ride inspections before each ride. This is especially important before making a long trip and when removing the motorcycle from storage.
WARNING
Failure to perform the recommended pre-ride inspections could result in component failure while riding, which could result in serious injury or death. Always perform the preride inspections before each ride. When inspection reveals the need for adjustment, replacement or repair, perform the service promptly, or see your authorized INDIAN MOTORCYCLE dealer or other qualified dealer for service.
WARNING
Read the entire Instruments, Features and Controls section of this manual before riding your motorcycle. A complete understanding of the features and capabilities of your motorcycle is essential to its safe operation. Anything less may result in serious injury or death.
You must be familiar with all instruments and controls to perform the pre-ride inspections.
NOTICE
During the pre-ride inspections you may use products that are potentially hazardous, such as oil or brake fluid. When using any of these products, always follow the instructions and warnings on the product packaging.
When inspections reveal the need for adjustment, replacement or repair:
  • refer to the maintenance section of this manual
  • refer to the INDIAN MOTORCYCLE Service Manual
  • or see your authorized INDIAN MOTORCYCLE dealer or other qualified dealer

Electrical Inspections

Turn the ignition key to the ON position and move the stop/run switch to RUN before performing the following electrical inspections. Return the ignition key to the OFF position after completing these inspections. If inspection of any electrical item reveals component failure, repair or replace the component before operating the motorcycle.
Item Inspection Procedure
Headlamp The headlights automatically operate whenever ignition switch is in ON position. Once headlamp illuminates, switch to high beam. Verify that the high beam indicator comes on and that lamp brightness increases.
Taillight/Brakelight Verify that the taillight and license plate light illuminate. Verify that the taillight lamps increase in brightness when the front brake lever is applied and also when the rear brake pedal is applied.
Turn Signals Move the turn signal switch to the left. Verify that front and rear left turn signals flash, as well as the corresponding light on the indicator panel. Move the switch to the center position and push it inward to cancel the signal. Verify that the signals and the indicator light stop flashing. Repeat the procedure for the right turn signals.
Hazard Warning Flashers Press and hold the hazard warning flashers switch for 1-2 seconds to activate the hazard warning flashers. Verify that all four turn signals flash, as well as the lamps on the indicator panel. Turn the hazard warning flashers off. Verify that all signals and indicator lamps stop flashing.
Horn Press the horn switch. Verify that the horn sounds loudly.
Neutral Indicator Place the transmission in neutral. Verify that the neutral indicator lamp illuminates and that the letter "N" displays in the gear position display.
Low Oil Pressure Indicator Start the engine. Verify that the low oil pressure indicator is not illuminated.
Engine Stop/Run Switch Start the engine. Move the stop/run switch to the STOP position. Verify that the engine stops. Attempt to restart the engine to verify that the engine WILL NOT start.

General Inspections

Item Inspection Procedure
Engine Oil Check the oil level. See Engine Oil Level.
Fuel Check the fuel level. See Fuel Level.
Coolant Level Check the coolant level in the recovery bottle. See Cooling System.
Fluid Leaks Check the vehicle and the ground/floor for any fuel, oil, coolant or hydraulic fluid leaks.
Tires Inspect condition, pressure and tread depth. See Tires.
Brake Operation Inspect pedal and lever movement.
Brake Fluid Levels Check front and rear brake fluid levels.
Brake Components Inspect hoses and connections.
Throttle Inspect hand grip and throttle movement.
Clutch Check lever operation and freeplay.
Front Suspension Check for leaks, debris and damage.
Steering Check for smooth operation by turning handlebars full left and full right.
Rear Suspension Check mounting and inspect for leaks.
Rear Drive Belt Check for wear or damage. See Rear Drive Belt Cleaning and Rear Drive Belt Wear Analysis.
Sidestand Verify smooth operation, inspect pivot bolt and spring.
Fasteners Inspect for loose, damaged or missing fasteners.
Mirrors Adjust for proper rear view.

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