With winter fast approaching in the Midwest, it's almost time to tuck away your bike until the warmer days of spring. While some die-hard riders brave the elements, most of us prefer to store our bikes to keep them safe from the elements and ready to roll when the weather turns warmer. Prepping your motorcycle for winter storage can be pretty easy and following the right steps can help keep it in top shape for next season.
Here are five easy steps to help you store your bike properly and ensure it’s as good as new when the spring season arrives.
1. Pick the Perfect Spot to Store Your Bike
Find a climate-controlled storage space to store your bike over the winter. A temperature-controlled spot will help protect your bike from moisture buildup, which can cause rust and other damage while it sits idle all winter.
2. Clean and Protect Your Ride
Give your bike a good wash before storing it. Dirt, grime and bugs can damage the paint and finish if left on for months. Adding a layer of wax can give it some extra protection, too. Once it’s clean, cover it up to protect it from dust or accidental dings while it’s stored.
3. Add Fuel Stabilizer to Your Gas Tank
Adding fuel stabilizer and topping off the gas tank with gasoline will keep your fuel from breaking down and protect the tank from rust. This way, your bike will be ready to go with a fresh tank once the riding season returns and you can head right out onto the road.
4. Change Your Bike’s Oil
Swap out your oil and filter for fresh ones before storing your bike. Old oil can get contaminated over time, so fresh oil will help ensure a smooth start when it’s time to ride again.
5. Take Care of Your Motorcycle’s Battery and Tires
Use a battery tender to keep your battery charged throughout the winter. If you don’t have a center stand, consider one to help prevent flat spots and dry rot on the tires.
Following these steps will keep your bike in prime riding condition for next season. If you need extra help or have questions, reach out to a knowledgeable motorcycle dealer or repair shop -- many offer year-round storage services if you prefer to have someone else handle the winterizing and safe keeping of your motorcycle.
For more motorcycle tips and riding news, check out Hupy and Abraham’s Rider Resource section on hupy.com. We’ve also put together a video with helpful winter storage tips, which you can watch here.
If you ever need legal support after a motorcycle accident, we’re here to help. We’ve helped over 70,000 clients recover over $1 billion for their injuries and are ready to fight for you. Call Hupy and Abraham at 800-800-5678 or visit hupy.com to chat with us today.
