So you want to store your motorcycle for the winter. Maybe you’re going off to college or taking an extended trip and won’t be able to ride for a while. Whatever the reason, if you want to keep your motorcycle in good condition while it’s in storage, there are a few things you need to do.
1. Make sure it’s clean
The first step is to clean your motorcycle. You might think this goes without saying, but it’s important to get all the dirt and grime off of your bike before you put it into storage. This will help prevent corrosion and make it easier to clean when you take it out of storage.
2. Take care of the battery
It’s important to give your battery some TLC before you store it for the winter. Remove the battery from your bike and store it in a cool, dry place. If you have a trickle charger, hook up your battery to that so it can stay charged while in storage.
3. Empty that fuel tank
If you’re storing your motorcycle for more than two months, it’s a good idea to empty out the fuel tank. This will help prevent gum and varnish buildup in the fuel system. If you can’t empty out the tank completely, add a fuel stabilizer to help keep the fuel fresh.
4. Give it an oil change
Just like with any other vehicle, it’s important to change the oil before putting your motorcycle into storage. This will help keep the engine clean and prevent any sludge buildup.
5. Don’t forget about the tires
Tires can go flat while in storage, so it’s important to check on them every now and then. If possible, raise your bike off the ground so the weight isn’t resting on the tires for extended periods of time.
6. Make sure you’ve got a good cover
Once you’ve taken care of all of the mechanical prep work, it’s time to cover your bike up. This will help protect it from dust, dirt, and other environmental elements that can cause damage while in storage.
Preparing your motorcycle for long-term storage doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. By taking care of a few simple maintenance tasks, you can rest assured that your bike will be ready to ride when spring rolls around again.
Bonus tip:
Make sure you’ve got the appropriate insurance coverage. If you’re not sure you have the right coverage while your bike is stored (or while it’s riding season), schedule a call with my team at the link below or import your current policies below for a full review!
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Canopy Connect
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