As the weather turns colder and winter approaches, many motorcycle riders decide to store their bikes for the season. Whether you live in an area with harsh winters or just prefer to avoid riding in cold conditions, winterizing your motorcycle is essential to ensure that it stays in good condition and is ready to ride when the warmer months return. Proper winterization not only protects your bike from the elements but also helps extend its lifespan by preventing common issues that can arise during storage.
In this article, we’ll go over the necessary steps to properly winterize your motorcycle, helping to safeguard its components and make sure it’s in top condition when it’s time to hit the road again.
1. Clean Your Motorcycle Thoroughly
Before storing your motorcycle for the winter, it’s crucial to clean it inside and out. Dirt, grime, road salt, and other debris can cause corrosion and damage over time, especially when exposed to moisture. Start by washing your bike with a gentle motorcycle cleaner, paying special attention to the frame, wheels, and exhaust. Make sure to remove any dirt from hard-to-reach areas, such as around the brake calipers, suspension, and chain.
After washing, dry the bike thoroughly with a clean cloth to avoid any water spots or rusting. This simple step can prevent long-term damage and ensure your bike looks great when you bring it out of storage.
2. Change the Oil and Oil Filter
One of the most important tasks when winterizing your motorcycle is to change the oil and replace the oil filter. Old oil contains contaminants and particles that can cause damage to the engine if left sitting for long periods. Fresh oil helps protect the engine by providing better lubrication and ensuring that the internal components are properly protected.
Even if you haven’t hit the mileage for a routine oil change, it’s worth changing the oil before winter storage to avoid leaving old oil sitting in the engine for months. It’s also a great opportunity to inspect the oil filter and replace it as needed to ensure that your bike is in top condition when you take it out for the next riding season.
3. Stabilize the Fuel System
Gasoline can deteriorate over time, especially when left in a tank for extended periods. This can lead to clogged fuel lines and carburetor issues when you try to start your motorcycle next season. To avoid this, add a fuel stabilizer to your motorcycle’s gas tank before storage. A fuel stabilizer prevents the fuel from breaking down and ensures that the engine starts up smoothly when you’re ready to ride again.
After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to allow it to circulate through the entire fuel system. This ensures that the stabilizer reaches all parts of the system, protecting the carburetor or fuel injectors and preventing corrosion.
4. Protect the Battery
A motorcycle battery can lose its charge during the off-season if it’s left unused, and this can lead to a dead battery when it’s time to ride again. To avoid this, remove the battery from your bike and store it in a cool, dry place. Before storing the battery, clean the terminals and apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly or battery terminal protector to prevent corrosion.
You can also use a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep the battery at an optimal charge level while it’s in storage. This will ensure that your battery is ready to go when you are, and it can extend the overall life of the battery.
5. Check Tire Pressure and Condition
Tires can develop flat spots if your motorcycle is left standing for long periods of time. To prevent this, make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure before storing the bike. Under-inflated tires can lead to uneven wear or damage, while over-inflated tires may be more prone to cracking or dry rot.
If possible, elevate your motorcycle off the ground by using a bike stand or paddock stand. This takes the weight off the tires and reduces the risk of flat spots. If you don’t have access to a stand, simply rotating the tires occasionally can help distribute the weight more evenly.
6. Lubricate the Chain and Moving Parts
Just like the engine and fuel system, your bike’s chain and other moving parts need proper lubrication to avoid rust and corrosion during the off-season. Clean the chain thoroughly and apply a high-quality chain lubricant. This helps prevent moisture from causing rust and ensures the chain remains in good condition for when you’re ready to ride.
Additionally, inspect and lubricate other moving parts such as the throttle cables, clutch cables, and foot pegs. A thin coat of lubricant will prevent rust and ensure smooth operation when you get back on the road.
7. Protect the Bike’s Exterior
To prevent your motorcycle from getting scratched or damaged during storage, consider using a cover to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture. A quality motorcycle cover will shield the bike from environmental elements while allowing it to “breathe,” preventing moisture buildup that could lead to rusting.
If you don’t have a cover, park the bike in a dry, cool location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing the bike in damp areas like basements or garages that don’t have proper ventilation. Moisture can cause rust, mold, and mildew to develop on your bike’s surfaces.
8. Inspect the Brake System
Before storing your bike, check the brake pads and fluid levels to ensure the brake system is functioning properly. If the brake fluid is low, top it off with the recommended fluid type. Also, inspect the brake pads for any signs of excessive wear. If they’re worn down too much, it’s a good idea to replace them before storing the bike. This ensures that your bike is ready to go as soon as you’re ready to ride.
9. Store the Motorcycle Properly
The final step in winterizing your motorcycle is to store it in a suitable location. Ideally, your bike should be stored in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area that is protected from the elements. If you don’t have access to indoor storage, consider investing in a high-quality outdoor motorcycle cover to protect the bike from moisture and dirt.
If possible, elevate the bike slightly to take pressure off the tires and suspension. Using a motorcycle lift or jack can help ensure that your bike stays in top condition during the winter months.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your motorcycle stays in excellent condition during the winter months and is ready to ride when the warmer weather arrives. Proper winterization not only prevents costly repairs but also extends the lifespan of your bike, allowing you to enjoy many more seasons of riding.
