Motorcycles are designed to provide an exhilarating experience on the road, but when the riding season comes to an end, it’s crucial to ensure your bike is properly stored to maintain its condition and extend its lifespan. Whether you live in an area with harsh winters or simply don’t ride year-round, proper motorcycle storage is essential to protect your investment and ensure that your bike is ready for the next riding season.
In this article, we’ll discuss why proper storage is important and walk you through the necessary steps to prepare your motorcycle for long-term storage, ensuring it remains in top shape when you’re ready to hit the road again.
1. Why Proper Motorcycle Storage Matters
When a motorcycle sits unused for an extended period, its various components can deteriorate or develop issues if not properly maintained. From rust on metal parts to battery degradation, improper storage can lead to a host of problems that can require costly repairs. In addition to physical damage, components like the engine and fuel system can also be negatively impacted by lack of use.
By storing your motorcycle properly, you can prevent common issues such as:
- Corrosion: Exposure to moisture can cause metal parts to rust. Proper storage keeps your bike protected from humidity and the elements.
- Battery Drain: A battery left in use without maintenance can lose charge and become damaged.
- Fuel Degradation: Gasoline can degrade over time, leading to poor engine performance and the need to drain the tank.
- Tire Deformation: Tires can develop flat spots from prolonged contact with the ground.
2. Choosing the Right Storage Location
The first step in storing your motorcycle is selecting the right location. If possible, choose a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area for storage. The ideal place is typically indoors, such as a garage, storage unit, or basement, where the bike will be protected from the elements.
Avoid storing your motorcycle in places where it may be exposed to moisture, such as sheds or outdoor environments without proper coverage. Prolonged exposure to rain, snow, or even high humidity can cause significant damage to various components of your bike, especially the engine and electrical parts.
If indoor storage is not an option, consider investing in a high-quality motorcycle cover. A weatherproof cover will protect your bike from the elements and prevent dust, dirt, and debris from accumulating on it.
3. Preparing Your Motorcycle for Storage
Once you’ve identified a safe storage location, it’s time to prepare your motorcycle for its extended rest. Follow these steps to ensure it stays in good condition while not in use:
Clean Your Bike Thoroughly
Before storing your bike, give it a good cleaning. Dirt, grime, and oil build-up can lead to corrosion or damage over time. Clean the exterior, wheels, and undercarriage to ensure no debris is left behind that could cause problems later on. Pay special attention to areas like the chain and exhaust, which can attract rust if not cleaned and properly maintained.
After cleaning, apply a coat of wax to the bike’s surface. This will create a protective barrier that helps shield the paint and metal parts from the elements and moisture.
Change the Oil and Filter
Motorcycle oil can degrade over time and develop contaminants that can damage the engine. Before storing your bike, make sure to change the oil and replace the oil filter. Fresh oil ensures that your engine will be properly lubricated when you start it up again after storage.
Drain the Fuel Tank or Add a Stabilizer
Fuel can go stale over time, leading to clogging in the fuel system and reduced performance when the bike is started again. You have two options for dealing with this:
- Drain the Fuel Tank: If you’re storing the bike for an extended period (several months), it’s a good idea to drain the tank completely and run the engine until the carburetor or fuel injectors are empty. This prevents stale fuel from clogging the system.
- Add a Fuel Stabilizer: If you don’t want to drain the tank, you can use a fuel stabilizer. This chemical helps prevent fuel from breaking down and causing damage to the engine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to add and treat your fuel.
Remove the Battery
A motorcycle’s battery can lose its charge over time, especially in cold temperatures. It’s best to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. If you’re storing it for a long period, make sure to check its charge and top it up if needed. You can also use a battery tender or trickle charger to keep the battery in good condition during storage.
Check the Tires
Prolonged contact with the ground can cause tires to develop flat spots, especially if the bike is stored on a hard surface like concrete. If you’re storing the motorcycle for several months, it’s best to either elevate the bike using a stand or occasionally rotate the tires to prevent flat spots. If that’s not possible, consider using tire savers or pads designed to distribute weight and minimize damage.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Moving parts like the chain, cables, and brake components should be lubricated to prevent rust and ensure they function smoothly when you take your bike out of storage. Use an appropriate lubricant to grease the chain and moving parts, and don’t forget to check the brake pads and levers as well.
4. Cover Your Motorcycle
Once your bike is cleaned, lubricated, and properly maintained, it’s time to cover it. Using a high-quality motorcycle cover will help protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture, even if it’s stored indoors. Ensure the cover is breathable to avoid trapping moisture underneath, which can cause rust or mold.
5. Periodically Check Your Motorcycle
If your bike will be in storage for an extended period, it’s a good idea to check on it periodically. Look for signs of moisture accumulation, battery charge levels, or tire damage. Periodically running the engine for a short time can also help keep the engine components lubricated and ensure it’s ready for use when you bring it out of storage.
Proper motorcycle storage is crucial for maintaining your bike’s performance, safety, and longevity. By following the necessary steps to clean, lubricate, and protect your bike before putting it away, you can prevent a variety of issues, from corrosion and battery degradation to flat spots and engine trouble. With a little preparation, your motorcycle will be ready to roll when you are—whether the riding season starts tomorrow or months down the line.
