Even the most enthusiastic motorcyclists often put their bikes into storage during winter. Before you tuck your motorcycle in for the season, there are a few tasks to complete to keep it safe in the harsh cold.

Maintenance

Check your owner’s manual to see if your bike is due for any routine maintenance based on mileage. Now is the best time to perform this maintenance, along with any repairs, so you can start riding as soon as it’s warm again.

To prevent road grime from hardening and corroding your bike’s inner-workings, give it a thorough wash before storage. Topping off fluids helps reduce moisture buildup and lubing the chain keeps it in good shape during storage. Check the tire tread and replace tires if necessary. Before storage, inflate the tires to the maximum recommended air pressure and, if possible, park your motorcycle on a sheet of plywood or a wooden board to help extend the tire life.

Engine and Battery

Dirty oil can clog up the engine, so take the opportunity to perform an oil change. Check the owner’s manual to see if a different grade of oil is required during winter. When you fill up the gas tank, add in a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes so it can travel through the whole system.

Motorcycle batteries drain when not in use. Consider removing the battery and hooking it up to a battery tender that cycles on and off, so it doesn’t overcharge.

Location

Storing a motorcycle outdoors leaves it susceptible to animal nesting, weather damage, theft and vandalism. It’s best to store your bike in a garage, shed or commercial storage facility with heat. Avoid covering it in plastic, as this can cause moisture buildup on and around your bike. Instead, select a breathable cover that fits your bike model well.

Coverage is still important even when you’re not riding. Call Matt Roenker Insurance Agency for more information on motorcycle insurance.