Now onto the next tip...
We all have our own unique way of doing things.
Some people, for example, do exactly two things before they dismount their bikes:
They turn off their ignition switch and they put down their side stand.
There are a few more details to attend to (however 'uniquely') before we dismount our motorcycles that can avoid some major trouble for ourselves.
(1) Use your engine cutoff to shut off your engine
Some people seem to think that switch is there for use only in an emergency. Not true..
The reason you use the engine cutoff switch rather than the ignition switch to shut off your engine is because you do not have to take your hand off the grip in order to do so.
Further, if you make a habit of doing so you will build 'muscle memory' as to where it is so that you can quickly and unerringly find it in the event of an emergency.
(2) Turn your ignition switch off
Obviously, unless you do this your lighting system is still on and your battery is discharging.
By the way, it is good form to get into the habit of using your LEFT hand to turn off the switch (if possible) so that you can keep your front brake lever activated.
(3) Turn your fuel valve (if you have one) to the OFF position
A stuck needle valve in one of your carbs can allow a great deal of gasoline to leak past it.
If a needle valve should happen to stick while your motorcycle is left in your garage overnight, that leaking gasoline can cost you your house and your life.
When you start your motorcycle you should always turn your
fuel valve to the RUN/ON position.
Thus, by making it a habit of turning the valve off at night you also eliminate the risk of having left it in the reserve position (had it been there when you last dismounted)
and running out of gasoline on the road somewhere.
