Bike Recovery (Picking Up a Fallen Bike)

Bike recovery covers everything needed to get a fallen, stuck or disabled motorcycle moving again: lifting it after a drop, pulling it out of mud, sand or a ditch, or towing and transporting it after a breakdown.

To lift a heavy bike, switch off the engine, put it in gear and turn the bars towards the ground. Squat with your back against the seat, grip the bar and a solid point at the rear, and walk it up using your legs. On a slope, turn the bike so the wheels point downhill first. Off-road, a tow strap and a second rider make getting out of deep mud or a ditch much easier.

After a fall, check levers, footpegs, fluid leaks and that the throttle snaps back before riding on. Some four-strokes need a moment for oil to drain back before starting.