Tuck your loved one up over winter!
December 08 2009
1. Find a place to store the bike for the period.
This may sound a bit obvious but careful selection will avoid unnecessary movement during storage. There’s nothing worse than climbing over it for four months or worse still - dropping something on it and crying as you peel back the cover to inspect the damage. The drier and warmer the storage the better.
2. Change oil and other fluids.
Before storage you should change all necessary fluids as recommended by your service schedule. This will avoid any contaminants attacking seals and filters. It’s always better to change the oil when the engine is hot. Check tyre pressures, when cold and inflate to manufacturers guidelines. All necessary anti-freeze agent is contained within modern water additives.
3. Wash and De-grease.
Thoroughly wash and de-grease the bike. If this involves removing panels to get at the hard to reach bits, it’s worth the hassle. Rust and other corrosion takes a lot longer to get sorted! De-grease the chain and all other parts to remove grime and road dirt.
4. Dry and Prepare.
Thoroughly dry the machine. Lots of soft dry dusters can assist after a chamois or use an airline if you have access to one. Fully polish, with a good wax, all the painted surfaces. Polish all chrome. Grease the chain and any other exposed moving mechanical parts. Spray the inside of the exhaust silencers with a silicon or oil based water repellent product. Some people recommend covering the whole bike in a silicon-based product to ‘seal’ it. A cheap car dashboard cleaner often contains a high amount of silicon. All exposed metal parts should be coated to protect from rust.
5. Elevate the Bike.
Placing the bike on a centre stand will unload your suspension and tyres. Paddock stands or wooden blocks are well worth investing in if your bike is not fitted with a centre stand.
6. Fuel and Battery.
Prior to storing the bike, put the recommended amount of fuel conditioner into a full tank of fuel. Run the bike until the additive is through your system. Switch the fuel feed off if appropriate. If your bike is carburetted there is no need to drain the system if fuel conditioner has been added. Ensure your battery terminals are clean and apply a good sealant to avoid any corrosion. A battery tender or trickle charger is often a worthwhile investment. This is essential if your bike is alarmed.
7. Secure and Lock It.
Remember just because it's under a cover and tucked away for the winter it isn’t any more secure. Ensure steering locks, alarms, chain locks, etc. are all in place. Ensure metal chains around frame or wheel rims do not corrode or contaminate your bike.
8. Cover It.
Storage in a dry location only requires a dust cover for the bike. The cover should be breathable. If you do not have a purpose made cover, a clean cotton sheet would suffice. If your bike is stored outdoors utilising a waterproof cover ensure the cover does not trap water and cause you more problems than simply exposing the bike to the rain, etc. Check frequently if necessary.
9. Emerging from hibernation 1.
Prior to going out for the first time check all fluid levels and look for any visible signs of leaks. Ensure your battery is fully charged and the tyres remain at the correct pressure. It is good practice, whilst still on the paddock or centre stand to fully apply the front and rear brakes for 20 seconds to ensure there is no breakdown in efficiency, no calliper pistons are seized or sticking and neither are locking when applied. Start your bike and ensure the oil warning light goes out. Run the bike for 10 minutes again checking for any leaks.
With all other checks and lubrication done prior to storing, your bike should be ready to go.
If you are uncertain about any aspect of your bikes safety, always consult with a recognised dealer.
10. Emerging from hibernation 2.
If you haven’t ridden the bike for a few months just remember to take the time and effort to reacquaint yourself with the controls and build your skill base again. Never push your personal threshold immediately and if biking early in the season remember road conditions can be unpredictable.
