Is it true that I have to change my oil before I put my motorcycle in storage?
Yes. Even if your bike is not due for an oil change you still need to remove the old dirty oil. Old oil is contaminated with carbon and other acids due to combustion that will prematurely wear down gaskets, seals, and bearings. Make sure to store any combustion engine with fresh oil.
How long will my battery last if I leave it connected?
Most modern motorcycles are equipped with numerous electrical circuits and devices. Each of these components have a small amperage draw which in time will drain the battery. Depending on your motorcycle, the battery could hold a charge anywhere’s between 2-8 weeks. Be sure to fully charge and disconnect before storage. It is also a good idea to install a battery tender on the bike and periodically put it on charge throughout the winter. Be advised that by just connecting the tender and leaving the bike on charge throughout the entire winter will harm your battery. A solid cell battery needs to fluctuate and actually exercise itself. By leaving it at constant 14.5volts creates a false state of charge which prematurely kills the battery. In order to prevent this, try just connecting the battery tender for a 24 hour period each month.
Is it true my gas will go bad if I leave it in the motorcycle?
Yes. Untreated gasoline will eventually tarnish and burn poorly. To prevent this from happening you can add fuel stabilizer which helps keep the gas fresh. Another preventative step which may be even more important is to store the motorcycle with a full tank of gas. By doing so you are minimizing the chances of condensation and corrosion to occur inside the fuel tank. Once corrosion does occur there is no way to repair it other than fuel tank replacement.
Do I need to worry about my chrome and paint corroding?
Proper surface preparation is necessary in order to confidently store your bike. We recommend a light coating of penetrating oil to be applied on most metal and chrome surfaces. This will help fight off any oxidizing that would occur due to condensation. Another very important step before storage is to be sure to give the motorcycle a good bath and remove any rode residue and grime that could lead to paint damage. Be sure to clean thoroughly, apply a coat of light oil, and store in a stable climate.
Should I worry about my tires rotting or checking?
Be sure to inflate your tires to the proper specification before putting it away. This will ensure they keep their shape over the next couple months. If you can remember, try checking them at least once during the winter just to make sure they have not deflated and remain in good condition. Again, be sure to store the bike in a controlled climate so it is not exposed to any outside elements that will prematurely wear tires down.
In the spring time upon retrieval, give the motorcycle another good bath and be sure to remove any oil before starting the bike. Recharge, reconnect, and test the battery. Check tire pressures, lights, brakes and wheels, throw on your jacket and hit the road!
