When the riding season comes to a close, properly storing your motorcycle ensures that it remains in top condition for when you’re ready to hit the road again. Neglecting to take the necessary precautions can lead to a host of issues that may affect your bike's performance and longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to protect your motorcycle during storage and the off-season, ensuring it's ready to roar back to life when the time comes.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Storage
Before you store your motorcycle, it's crucial to prepare it properly. A well-prepped bike will be less susceptible to issues like corrosion, flat spots on tires, and battery failure. Start by giving your bike a thorough cleaning. Dirt, grime, and moisture can cause rust and other damage over time, so it’s essential to remove them before storing your motorcycle.
After cleaning, ensure that all moving parts are properly lubricated. This includes the chain, cables, and any other components that require lubrication. Applying a fresh coat of wax to the paintwork will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and dust.
Maintaining the Battery
One of the most common issues during off-season storage is a dead battery. To prevent this, it's best to remove the battery from the bike and store it in a cool, dry place. Attach it to a battery tender or trickle charger to keep it charged and ready to go when you're back in action. If removing the battery isn’t an option, at least make sure to start the bike and let it run for a few minutes every few weeks to keep the battery from dying.
Fuel System Protection
Another crucial aspect of storage is protecting the fuel system. Stale fuel can lead to clogged injectors or carburetors, making it difficult to start your motorcycle after months of inactivity. To avoid this, add a fuel stabilizer to your tank and fill it up completely. A full tank prevents moisture from accumulating and causing rust inside the fuel tank.
After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for a few minutes to ensure it circulates through the entire fuel system. This will help keep the fuel fresh and the system clean, reducing the risk of starting problems later on.
Tire Care During Storage
Tires are another part of your motorcycle that requires attention before storing it for the off-season. When a bike sits for an extended period, tires can develop flat spots, which can negatively impact their performance and safety. To prevent this, try to store your motorcycle with the tires off the ground by using a stand. If a stand isn’t available, make sure to rotate the tires occasionally to distribute the weight and avoid flat spots.
Additionally, check the tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels. Cold temperatures can cause air pressure to drop, so it’s important to monitor the tires throughout the storage period.
Protecting Against Moisture and Rust
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of a motorcycle in storage. To protect your bike from rust and corrosion, consider storing it in a dry, climate-controlled environment. If you’re storing it in a garage or shed, using a motorcycle cover that is breathable and waterproof can help keep moisture at bay.
Spraying exposed metal parts with a light coating of WD-40 or a similar protective spray can provide an extra layer of protection against rust. Make sure to avoid spraying it on areas like the brake rotors or tires, as this can reduce their effectiveness.
Keeping Pests Away
Pests can cause significant damage to your motorcycle while it’s in storage. Rodents and insects are known to chew through wires, hoses, and other critical components. To keep them away, cover any openings, such as the exhaust and air intakes, with plastic bags or steel wool. This will prevent pests from making their way into your bike and causing costly damage.
You can also place mothballs or other rodent repellents around your storage area to deter pests from coming near your motorcycle.
Regular Check-ups During Storage
Even though your motorcycle is in storage, it’s a good idea to check on it periodically. Performing regular inspections allows you to catch potential issues early and address them before they become serious problems. Check for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or other damage, and make sure that your battery is still holding a charge.
Starting the engine every few weeks and letting it run for a few minutes will help keep the engine components lubricated and prevent fuel system issues.
Covering Your Motorcycle
While it might seem like a minor detail, covering your motorcycle properly is an essential step in protecting it during the off-season. A high-quality motorcycle cover will shield your bike from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time.
Choose a cover that is designed specifically for motorcycles and is made from breathable materials. Breathability is important because it allows moisture to escape, preventing mold and mildew from
developing underneath the cover. Avoid using plastic tarps or other non-breathable materials, as they can trap moisture and lead to corrosion.
If you’re storing your motorcycle outdoors, make sure the cover is waterproof and secured tightly to prevent it from blowing off in the wind. Indoor storage may not require a waterproof cover, but it’s still important to use one to keep dust and debris off your bike.
Gear Maintenance
While your motorcycle is in storage, it’s also a good time to take care of your riding gear. Clean and inspect your helmet, gloves, boots, and other protective gear. Look for any signs of wear and tear, and consider replacing any items that are damaged or no longer provide adequate protection.
Storing your gear in a cool, dry place will help preserve its condition and ensure it’s ready to go when the riding season begins again. If possible, avoid storing gear in direct sunlight or areas with high humidity, as these can cause materials to degrade over time.
Reawakening Your Motorcycle
When the off-season ends and it’s time to get back on the road, it’s important to reawaken your motorcycle properly. Start by inspecting the bike for any issues that may have developed during storage. Check the tires, brakes, and fluids, and make sure everything is in working order.
Reinstall the battery if you removed it, and give the bike a thorough cleaning to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated. Before hitting the road, take your bike for a short test ride to ensure everything is functioning correctly and that there are no surprises.
Conclusion
Storing your motorcycle properly during the off-season is essential for maintaining its performance and longevity. By following these steps, you can protect your bike from damage and ensure it’s ready to ride when the season begins again. If you have any questions or need assistance with preparing your motorcycle for storage, don’t hesitate to reach out to Get Dirty Dirt Bikes. Our team of experts is here to help with all your motorcycle parts, accessories, and service needs. Contact us at (760) 327-0747 or email dave@getdirtydirtbikes.com for more
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