A front fork helps a motorcycle absorb uneven road surfaces and maintain predictable handling. A Yamaha owner's manual divides its inspection into two parts: check the condition, then check the operation. Look at the inner tubes for scratches, damage or excessive oil leakage. A short visual check before riding can reveal when a more thorough inspection is needed.
For the operation check, the manual says to place the motorcycle on a level surface and support it securely in an upright position so it cannot fall. With the front brake applied, press down firmly on the handlebars several times and watch whether the fork compresses and rebounds smoothly. The point is to notice consistent movement without sticking, rather than trying to judge suspension settings by feel alone.
If the fork is damaged or does not move smoothly, Yamaha advises having a dealer inspect or repair it. A visual check does not replace the maintenance schedule, so consult the handbook for the intervals specified for your motorcycle. The useful habit is straightforward: notice changes early and do not dismiss oil traces or unusual movement at the front of the bike.