January is officially "dreaming season" for UK bikers. While the weather might keep many of us off the B-roads, it’s the ideal window to ensure your bike is in peak condition and your calendar is filled with the year's best events.
Here is our three-step guide to mastering the 2026 pre-season.
1. The Garage Audit: 2026 Maintenance Essentials
Don't get caught out by a dead battery or a slack chain on the first warm Saturday of the year.
- • Battery Health: Cold weather strains your battery; use a trickle charger or battery tender to maintain its charge during hibernation. Check terminals for corrosion and clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water if needed.
- • Tyre Inspection: Tyres lose pressure in colder temperatures; check pressures weekly with a quality gauge. Inspect for cracks, bulges, or flat spots if the bike wasn't stored on a stand.
- • Fluid Refresh: If you didn't change your oil before winter, do it now to remove contaminants and sludge buildup caused by temperature changes. Always check your manual for recommended oil change intervals.
- • Chain & Brakes: Clean and lubricate your drive chain and check its tension. Test that both the front and rear brakes engage and release properly, as calipers can seize due to winter corrosion.
- • Road Salt Warning: If you’re already out on the road, hose down your bike after every ride with cool water only to combat salt corrosion.
2. The 2026 "Watch List": Bikes & Shows
The 2026 market is focusing heavily on accessible, characterful performance.
- • New Metal for 2026: The all-new Triumph Trident 800 is set to hit shops in March 2026, priced at £9,195. Keep an eye out for the budget-friendly Kawasaki KLE500 (£5,999) which brings adventure riding back to the masses.
- • Show Season: Kick off the year with the Motor Bike Expo (MBE) in Verona (Jan 23-25) or the Classic Dirt Bike Show in Telford (Feb 7-8).
- • Track & Race Starts: The race season warms up in mid-March with the BMCRC Season Starter at Brands Hatch (Mar 14-15).
3. Fighting the "Biker’s Enemy": Potholes & Security
- • Pothole Season: Watch out for severe winter road damage; National Pothole Day is 15 January 2026.
- • Layer Your Security: Use the "Lock, Chain, Cover" method to make your bike less attractive to thieves who often "shop" for specific models.
- • Ground Anchors: When at home, secure your bike to an immovable object like a ground anchor. Keep the chain taut and off the ground to prevent thieves from using tools like angle grinders.
Fueling Your Passion
Whether you are maintaining your current ride or planning an upgrade to a 2026 model like the Trident 800, make sure your insurance is as ready as you are.
At BeMoto, we are here to fuel your passion. Our specialist Motorbike Insurance Policies are designed by bikers, for bikers.
Ready to get ahead of the spring rush?
Don't leave your 2026 coverage to chance. Get a specialist quote in minutes.
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