Storing your motorcycle for winter
Of course there are die-hard motorcyclists who never stop and ride their bike all year round. However, the vast majority prefer a means of transport other than the motorcycle in the wetter and colder autumn and winter months.
Although every motorcycle prefers to be started on a frequent basis, a large number of bikes stand still in the shed or garage for several months in the winter, waiting for that one first spring ride. To guide a motorcycle through this quiet time, it is advisable to follow the tips below.
Full tank
Condensation can easily form in a half-full or empty tank. This can cause rust if it stands still for a long time. By storing an engine with a full tank, the risk of condensation and rust formation is minimized. Petrol also has less chance to evaporate in a full tank, so it retains its quality.
It is best to refuel your engine with, for example, Shell V-Power or BP Ultimate. The special additives make them better for the inside of the tank and the entire fuel system of an engine. It is advisable to drive a short distance before putting your bike away to allow the petrol to flow properly.
Trickle charger
Batteries do not like to be idle for long periods of time and will automatically discharge if they are not used for a longer period of time. Fortunately, there are so-called trickle chargers that can charge a battery in a pulsating manner. This keeps a battery charged to just under 100% and, unlike with a regular battery charger, you cannot overload it. This way the battery remains in a healthy and charged condition during the winter months.
Rust
To protect an engine as much as possible against rust, you can spray the iron and steel parts with a silicone spray or a WD40 lubricant and rub out with a soft (microfiber) cloth. This also makes these parts nice, clean and shiny.
Chain
It is recommended that you also clean your chain thoroughly before putting the motorcycle in winter storage. You can easily remove dirt on your chain with a chain cleaning agent and a sturdy (tooth) brush. Then dry the chain and treat it with a chain spray.
Coolant
If you haven't replaced your engine's coolant in a while, now is a good time. This prevents contamination / internal corrosion of the cooling system. If you are a little handy, you can do this yourself, but your motorcycle dealer can also do this for you in no time.
Tyres
To prevent deformation of your tires, it is best to park your motorcycle with the tires off the ground; on a possible center stand or paddock stand. If you do not have both available, inflate the tires hard (to, for example, 2.8 bar). This reduces the chance of a flat tread. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure your tire pressure.
Engine oil
To extend the life of the engine block, this is also a good time to check the condition of the oil. If it is older than 10,000 km, it is best to replace it immediately. Don't forget to also replace the oil filter.
A proper motorcycle cover
If you have checked all the above topics, then it is time to put your motorcycle under an indoor or outdoor motorcycle cover. This will keep your bike clean and dry and ensure that it is ready next spring when the first opportunity is there.
If you have any questions regarding this article, please feel free to contact us.
