Properly winterizing your motorcycle requires a multi-step approach. You'll want to give it a thorough clean-up, prepare the fuel system and battery, protect the tires, and choose an optimal storage location for your bike. Additionally, you don't wanna overlook the importance of maintaining your insurance coverage. Many riders will put their insurance on hold but maintaining your insurance protects you from potential risks like theft, vandalism, or damage while your bikes in storage.
Prepping the Motorcycle for Winter
Begin by washing your motorcycle. Glowing road dust can trap moisture, which over time may corrode your bike's surface and metal parts so be sure to give it a good clean. Once your bike is clean, you can take it a step further by applying high-quality wax and chain lube.
Next, focus on preparing the fuel system. Fill up your fuel tank to prevent rust from forming inside during the winter months. Change the oil as well to remove any contaminants that could harm your engine over time. A full fuel tank minimizes air space, reducing moisture buildup. Also, remember to add a fuel stabilizer, this will keep the fuel from degrading and damaging the system, ensuring a smooth start when warmer weather arrives. Additionally, cover your exhaust pipe and air intake with a plastic bag to block moisture from seeping in. Your motorcycle's battery also needs attention. Use a battery tender or trickle charger regularly to keep the battery charged throughout winter. This simple step helps prevent issues when it’s time to hit the road again.
Finally, you should look to protect your tires. Storing your motorcycle on a flat surface for extended periods can lead to flat spots on the tires. To prevent this, do your best to raise your motorcycle off the ground using a center stand. If this isn't an option for you, moving your motorcycle slightly every few weeks and ensuring your tires are properly inflated can mitigate this issue.
Choosing the Best Storage Location
The next item on your checklist should be to find an ideal storage location for your bike. Depending on where you live and your available resources, there are a few options you may consider.
Garage
Storing your motorcycle inside, in a garage, is the most optimal solution. A heated garage provides the most protection from harsh winter temperatures and moisture, which can be detrimental to your bike’s condition.
Storage Unit
If a garage isn’t available, a storage unit could be an excellent alternative. It would protect your motorcycle better than most outdoor alternatives, especially from freezing temperatures and winter precipitation.
Outdoor Storage
For those without access to indoor storage, an outdoor storage solution might be the only option. For outdoor storage, you need a high-quality, waterproof cover for your bike. This cover must be secured tightly to keep out cold air and dump rain or snow away from the bike.
Regardless of the storage option you choose, it's crucial to take steps to minimize moisture buildup to protect your motorcycle from rust, corrosion, and other potential damage.
Insurance and Legal Considerations
Along with the physical measures to protect your bike, it's important not to forget to put legal and financial protections in place. Some motorcycle owners may consider putting their policy on hold during the winter, when the bike is not in use. While this might seem like a clever cost-saving strategy, it may not always be the wisest move.
The risk of theft or damage to your bike doesn’t disappear when your motorcycle is stored. Having coverage protects your bike from incidents like vandalism, storms, or other damage to your motorcycle while it's being stored.
Before making the decision to reduce or completely stop your insurance coverage during winter, discuss with your insurance provider, consider the risks involved, and understand the conditions of your insurance policy. Additionally, if you plan on taking your motorcycle for a spin during a warm winter day, you’ll want to ensure you’re covered because riding without insurance is not just risky, it's illegal in most places.
Preparing Your Bike for Spring and Beyond
Before bringing out your motorcycle from its winter hibernation, there are a few steps you should follow to ensure a smooth ride.
Begin by inspecting the bike. Look out for signs of moisture or any damage it might have endured while in storage. Uncover the exhaust pipes and air intake and inspect to ensure no pests have found shelter there. It's also a good idea to check your tire pressure and give your brakes a test before hitting the road again.
Also, take a moment to inspect your battery. If it has been on a trickle charger or battery tender, it should be good to go. If not, you may need to recharge it before setting out on your first post-winter ride. Finally, ensure that all lights work correctly and check fluid levels.
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