One of the UKs biggest motorbike insurance companies, Swinton Insurance, has been offering advice to customers on essential motorcycle maintenance and what to look for when test driving a bike.

These tips should help drive down the cost of insurance by reducing the risk of breakdown and accidents.

Suggesting that bike maintenance should become the part of the weekly routine there are some essential tasks that need to be carried out before setting out on a long trip.

The press released said that, "one of the first safety inspections is to check the engine oil level and look out for any leaks. Oil level is vital for ensuring the engine runs smoothly and helps to prevent wear and tear."

Getting switched on

"All bikes need their lights when it gets dark, so the bulbs need to be checked on the headlights, taillights, indicators and brake lights, as well as on all the gauge instruments. Tyres are also vital for safe driving, so it is essential to check both the pressure of the tyres and the tread to make sure they fall within manufacturers guidelines."

The press released went onto say that a bikes battery should always be fully charged and it is essential to clean the connections between the batteries and to replace them if they show signs of wear and tear.

The company also highlight the importance of insuring that the bikes policy is up to date, this mean adding addition cover for any trips abroad and declaring any modifications made to the bike.

Anthony Aronin, the head of Swinton Bikes, said "it is essential that all bike enthusiasts carry out these essential vehicle checks. Not only is it important for their own safety, but failure to meet certain requirements may lead to prosecution, or invalidation of their bike insurance. We would recommend that cyclists get in to the habit of carrying out these checks on a weekly basis."

In a second press release Swinton offer up some advice for those looking to by a motorcycle new or second had. The insurance company reiterate the importance to have the correct cover when taking a test drive as being pulled over by the police could lead to points or at the very worst disqualification.

Going for a test run

There are a number of things to look for when taking a test drive these include including a comfortable riding position and the performance of the vehicle matching expectations. Taking a test drive can help to identify faults with the bike and also enable riders to decided if they 'get on' with a vehicle.

Swinton Bikes recommends that potential buyers view potential bikes in daylight, so that they have a clear view of any scratches, dents or faults. And when taking a test drive, do so on a dry day to feel how the vehicle handles under day-to-day conditions.

Anthony Aronin, the head of Swinton Bikes, said: "a homeowner would never buy a new house without going to view it first. Likewise, bike enthusiasts should never buy a new or used motorcycle without taking it for a test drive first.

"Even in the thrill of buying a new vehicle, it is important to keep a level head and carry out a number of checks to make sure that the vehicle meets needs and requirements, and that there are no obvious technical faults."

Buying a new bike should not be taken lightly and the same amount of thought and research put into buying a car or even a house should be put into your next motorcycle purchase, and remember it is essential to have the correct cover for your bike.