Motorcycle winter storage isn’t to be overlooked. Motorcycles are considerable investments, so you will want to ensure it’s properly maintained when you don’t ride them regularly.
Use these measures to winterize your motorcycle and stow it in excellent condition. These storage tips apply whether you keep a bike in a garage, shed, storage unit, or elsewhere.
If you can’t store your motorcycle for the off-season at home, we recommend choosing a dry storage location to keep the bike out of the environment. The following are essential tips for winterizing a motorcycle for the off season.
Clean the bike’s exterior and lubricate.
Cleaning a bike that you know you won’t be riding doesn’t sound fun, but it’s something that will eventually save you time and a headache. Any dried-on bugs, dust, or spots will only become more difficult to remove once it comes out of winter storage.
Cover important internal components with a light coat of oil to prevent unwanted moisture buildup.
You can do this by removing the spark plugs, then putting approximately a tablespoon of oil into the holes, turning the engine over, and coating the cylinder walls by rotating the rear tire while the bike is in gear. Add back spark plugs.
Remember to lubricate the chain, cables, and controls and ensure everything is well-oiled to combat the cold and dry winter air.
Top off the fuel.
Before storing your motorcycle, Stop by a gas station near your storage location and top off the fuel, as it will keep moisture down on the tank walls.
Add a fuel stabilizer after the tank is full and then take the motorcycle for a short spin to the storage facility. It’s crucial to add the fuel stabilizer beforehand and not at the storage location, as the stabilizer will have the chance to mix into the fuel system.
If you have been storing your motorcycle for over six months, drain the gas tank completely. After removing the fuel, you must line the tank with fogging oil to prevent rust.
Change the oil and replace the filter.
Old oil that remains in storage can quickly corrode engine components. After you take the motorcycle for one last ride and top off the fuel, change the oil and replace the filter.
Consider purchasing oil that is mainly for winter use. After taking care of the oil, add the proper amount of antifreeze to your coolant system, a vital step for winter motorcycle storage.
Remove the battery.
You can remove the battery or keep it on the bike for shorter-term winter storage. If you keep the battery on, turn the bike on every month or so to charge the battery. Most owners remove the battery and store it in an entirely different location that won’t undergo temperature variations.
Once the battery is detached, and the electrodes are cleaned, hook it up to a trickle charger all winter long.
Cover/Stuff air intake and exhaust pipes.
Cover open bike sections to prevent rodents or pests from moving inside the cycle.
There are muffler covers and other items on the market you can purchase, but some people have success using plastic bags. Remember to remove these items when you start your bike in the spring!
Storage Authority offers rental units for motorcycles. Your vehicle is a considerable investment, and our storage units help maintain the lifespan of a motorcycle. If you want to rent a future unit, call us at 262-676-8464. You can also visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our affordable rates!