Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to winterize your adventure motorcycle. Here are some tips to help you keep your bike in good condition and ready to ride when the weather warms up again:
Empty your panniers. Nothing spoils spring like findings mildewy old socks or an exploded water bottle waiting for you. Be sure to check and empty any perishable items from your saddlebags before you put the bike up for storage.
Unplug peripherals. If you have USB charge ports or wireless charges, etc they all drain your battery, so pull the plug.
Use a battery tender. The low trickle charge is enough to keep lead acid and ASG batteries from sulfating, and gives you a strong crank come spring.
Change the oil and filter. Old oil can break down and become contaminated over time, so it’s important to change it before storing your bike. Use the oil and filter recommended by your bike’s manufacturer.
Add fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizer will help to prevent the gas in your tank from gumming up and causing problems. Follow the instructions on the fuel stabilizer label.
Clean the chain and sprockets. A dirty chain and sprockets can cause premature wear and tear, so it’s important to clean them before storing your bike. Use a chain cleaner and lubricant specifically designed for motorcycles.
Check the tires. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread. If you’re storing your bike for an extended period of time, you may want to consider de-inflating the tires slightly to prevent them from flat-spotting.
Store the bike in a dry, cool place. A garage or basement is ideal, but if you don’t have access to one, you can store your bike in a shed or under a tarp. Just make sure the area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture from building up.
Protect the bike from the elements. A good motorcycle cover will help to protect your bike from the sun, rain, and snow. Make sure the cover is properly fitted and secured to prevent it from flapping in the wind.
By following these tips, you can winterize your adventure motorcycle and keep it in good condition until the next riding season.
Here are some additional tips:
Remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place. If you leave the battery in the bike, it could run down and sulfate, which can damage the battery.
Plug the exhaust pipe to prevent animals from nesting inside. You can use a rag or a piece of steel wool to plug the pipe.
Wax the bike to protect the paint. This will help to prevent the paint from fading and cracking.
Take pictures of your bike before you store it in a commercial facility or with friends**.** This will help you to identify any problems when you take it out of storage.
By following these tips, you can winterize your adventure motorcycle and keep it in good condition for years to come. What tips did I miss? Add your own in the comments!
