Tyres and wheels - are the tyres inflated properly and at the right pressure... Are the tyres/wheels damaged? Are there any nails/screws/bits of glass etc in the tyre? Are they worn out and need replacing?

Electrics - do all the lights work? Does the brake light come on when you pull the lever or press the pedal? Do the indicators work? (It’s a good idea to keep a stock of spare bulbs and some spare fuses at home)

Brakes - are they working ok? Is the brake fluid level ok (if the level has dropped, more than likely the pads are wearing out or there is a leak) do they stick at all? (Brake callipers can seize up very quickly.. especially rear ones! if they do they may need stripping down and cleaning / seals replacing)

Rear chain - check the play in the chain roughly halfway along the bottom, there should be about 2-3 cm movement on average. It should not be tight like a guitar string or too loose, as either will cause things to wear out very quickly or in a worse case lock up the back wheel... Make sure you also clean and lubricate the chain often, I find castrol chain wax to be about the best.... I will be going into how to adjust the chain in next weeks posting.

Clutch/brake throttle cables - not applicable to all people but if you have any cable-operated control make sure they are adjusted correctly and any cables lubricated

Steering - turn the handlebars from lock to lock and make sure nothing catches or stops the movement. The steering should be smooth and there should be no "notches" as you turn the handles. If there are you could need to replace the steering head bearings.. This can be dangerous if left un-repaired; I've seen bikes that "notch" and lock the steering in the straight-ahead position! Not very nice

Fluid levels - as well as the brake fluid levels, remember to check the coolant level (for water cooled bikes) and the engine oil level and top up if required.

And finally... go round the bike checking fasteners, screws, bolts etc. It amazing how quickly some bolts can work loose