Here in Australia, March 1st marks the first day of Autumn. While some of us love to ride all year round, for many of us, the colder weather means it's time to put our motorcycles away for a few months.
Unfortunately, motorcycle storage can be a tricky business. Motorcycles don't like to sit around unridden for long periods of time, fuel goes bad, metal rusts, and batteries die. If you want your bike to run smoothly when you pull it out of storage, you'll need to prepare it for winter.
Here's our guide on how to ready your motorcycle for storage.
Clean the Motorcycle: Wash the motorcycle thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or bugs. Make sure it's completely dry before moving on to the next steps.
Change the Oil and Filter: It's a good idea to change the oil and filter before storing the motorcycle for an extended period. Fresh oil will help prevent corrosion and keep engine components lubricated.
Stabilise the Fuel: Add a fuel stabiliser to the gas tank and run the engine for a few minutes to ensure the stabilised fuel circulates through the system. This prevents the fuel from deteriorating and causing issues like gumming up the carburetor or fuel injectors.
Top Up the Fuel Tank: Fill the fuel tank to the brim to minimise the amount of air in the tank, which can lead to condensation and rust inside the tank.
Check and Adjust Tire Pressure: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from developing during storage. If possible, lift the motorcycle off the ground or place it on a stand to relieve pressure on the tires.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply lubricant to essential moving parts such as the chain, cables, and pivot points to prevent rust and corrosion.
Protect the Battery: Remove the battery from the motorcycle and store it in a cool, dry place. Alternatively, you can leave the battery in place but disconnect it to prevent it from draining. Consider using a battery tender to maintain the battery's charge throughout the winter.
Cover the Motorcycle: Use a breathable motorcycle cover to protect it from dust, moisture, and other environmental elements. Make sure the cover fits properly and securely.
Store in a Suitable Location: Ideally, store the motorcycle in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A garage or dedicated motorcycle storage space is ideal, but if you must store it outdoors, consider using additional measures to protect it from the elements.
Periodically Check and Maintain: Even though the motorcycle is in storage, it's essential to periodically check on it throughout the winter. Make sure the cover is still in place and inspect for any signs of pests or moisture buildup. If possible, start the motorcycle occasionally and let it run for a few minutes to keep the engine components lubricated.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your motorcycle stays in good condition during its winter hibernation and is ready to hit the road when spring arrives.
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