Safe Travel in Spring Weather

Whether it was used or laid up during the winter, the car deserves a refresh. A thorough cleaning, both inside and out, is recommended. Special attention should be paid to windows and mirrors to ensure optimal visibility. Salt residues that have accumulated on the body and undercarriage must be removed, preferably in a suitable car wash. Engine cleaning, however, should be left to a professional to avoid damage to electrical components. A springtime check-up is also advisable to review safety- related elements.

It's also time to remove winter equipment, as its weight affects fuel consumption and driving behaviour. Now is the time to switch to summer tyres: they must be in good condition, suitable for use, and have a minimum tread depth of 3 mm. TCS recommends making the switch in April and using the tyres until October. However, in pre-Alpine and mountainous regions, it may be wise to wait a few extra days until the end of April due to the risk of snow.

Motorcycle: Riding with Confidence

Before the first ride, a complete check of the motorcycle is required. In particular, lighting, indicators, and other safety elements must be checked. Additionally, ensure there are no oil leaks. If in doubt, a check by a professional is recommended.

The motorcyclist's equipment is just as crucial. Boots, gloves, protection for knees, shoulders, and elbows, as well as a back protector, are essential. To improve visibility, it is advised to opt for bright clothing or those with reflective elements. Finally, the helmet must comply with ECE 22-05 or ECE 22-06 standards, be in good condition, and be replaced every five years or after an impact.

Bicycle: Maintenance and Visibility in Focus

If left idle for a long time, the bicycle also requires maintenance. Cleaning with water, a sponge, and a brush is recommended, avoiding high-pressure jets as they can damage the bearings. A suitable product can be used for stubborn dirt. It is important to lubricate the chain, derailleur joints, gear system, bottom bracket, brake levers, and seat post suspension, ensuring not to contaminate the brakes with grease. Tyres should be inflated according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and the lighting and brakes must function perfectly.

For e-bikes, the battery— stored separately in a dry place—should be checked. If the charge level is not between 50 and 70 percent, it should be charged to this level.

In Switzerland, helmets are only mandatory for fast e-bikes, but TCS recommends them for all cyclists. They must comply with EN 1078 standards and be replaced every five years or after an impact. Again, bright or reflective clothing improves visibility.

Motorhome: Anticipating Needs

Before resuming travel, a technical check of the motorhome is essential. The oil level, battery, and tyre pressure, as well as the condition of the brakes, brake fluid, and coolant, must be checked. Lighting should also be tested. The water and gas systems need to be inspected, and it is crucial to ensure all required documents are onboard. Lastly, it is important to learn from the past season, anticipate needs, and avoid unpleasant surprises to begin the new camping season with peace of mind.

Press Contact:
Marco Wölfli, Media Spokesperson TCS
Tel. 058 827 34 03

marco.woelfli@tcs.ch

Editor's note: Image rights belong to the respective publisher. Image rights: Touring Club Schweiz/Suisse/Svizzero - TCS