Cooler temperatures may put a frown on your face. As a rider, you can start to see the motorcycling season winding down. Generally, though, for a majority of riders the riding season ends in late October or early November. Right now is a perfect time to think about winterizing your motorcycle.
Here are some helpful tips to guide you along. Even if it’s your tenth time putting your bike away for winter, take some time to help refresh your memory before getting started.
- Think about where you can store your motorcycle.
- Take your bike out for one last ride.
- Top off your tank with fresh gas before you get home.
- Add the suggested amount of fuel stabilizer, start the motorcycle and let the stabilizer cycle through.
- Change the oil and oil filter.
- Check the air filter and clean or replace it.
- Check your brake pads, tires and belt or chain for wear.
- Take the battery out, top the cells off with distilled water and store it at room temperature in a dry place.
- Check the pressure in both tires to make sure they’re filled to the proper level.
- Wash your motorcycle really well to scrub all the bugs, dirt and road grime off.
- Wax the paint and chrome, leaving a thick coat of wax on the motorcycle.
- Put leather protection on your leather seat and any other leather parts of your bike.
- Close off any openings with tape or stuff them with some kind of cloth to help keep critters out.
- Protect your motorcycle with a cover to help keep moisture at bay.
