How To Winterize a Motorcycle in 6 Simple Steps

Clean your Motorcycle

First, you would want to clean your motorcycle’s chassis of any dirt, grime and anything that may cause any corrosion. Mix some motorcycle wash with water in a bucket. Follow the instructions on the bottle for how much soap to use. Use a clean microfiber towel to gently wipe away the dirt and debris on the exterior of the motorcycle, then rinse it with a hose. Dry the motorcycle by hand or let it air dry.

Washing and drying a motorcycle is sufficient for storing it for the winter, but I prefer to take an extra step and apply a polish or wax to the exterior bodywork to protect the paint. Most of these polish or wax products require spraying the product onto the body work and using a microfiber towel to gently scrub off any dirt and blemishes. After that, use a second clean microfiber towel to remove any streaks and residue and buff it to a glossy shine.

Check the oil and fluids

If you haven’t performed an oil change on your motorcycle recently, be sure to change both the oil and the filter. Used oil can harm your engine as it can contain contaminants and be corrosive. Changing the oil and filter will help prevent harm and keep your mechanical parts well lubricated during the hibernation period.

Additionally, you may want to top off any fluids as needed before storage. Check the brake fluid, coolant, and any other fluids to ensure they are filled and ready for the next season.

Fill the Tank

Before storing the motorcycle, fill the tank with fresh fuel and add a fuel stabilizer. Be sure to add the proper amount of stabilizer for the amount of gas in the tank. Then run it for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the fuel to circulate through the motorcycle. Adding the fuel stabilizer to the gas will help keep your fuel fresh, preventing it from degrading over time, especially in cold climates, as well as preventing your fuel injectors from clogging. If your climate allows you to ride your motorcycle periodically during the winter, fill a gas can with the gas and stabilizer mix and top it off after every ride.

Battery Charging

There are a few ways to keep your battery charged and ready for the next season of riding. The most common method is to remove the battery from the motorcycle and charge it indoors. The other option is using a battery maintainer. This is a better option and does not require battery removal. One important thing to note is that you will need to install an SAE two-pin quick-disconnect connection pigtail to your battery, as this is the method used for charging from an outlet.

To charge the battery, simply connect the SAE connections from the pigtail installed on the battery to the corresponding connections on the battery tender, which is plugged into the outlet.

Elevate the motorcycle

Most likely, you will store your motorcycle in your garage or a storage unit. However, if you don’t have a garage or storage unit, a dry location that is away from the elements is also suitable. Once you have a location, elevate your motorcycle to relieve the pressure on the tires. Storing without elevating, over a long period, can cause your tires to develop flat spots or lose their round shape entirely due to sitting in the same position for months.

Some motorcycles have their own center stands installed on them, like this one, that keep both tires elevated. If you are gifted with one of these on yours, kick up your bike, and place some scrap lumber underneath the tires to help level the bike. The tires should be in contact with the wood but not fully resting on it. This is to relieve any strain on the suspension and pressure from the tires.

If your motorcycle doesn’t have a center stand, purchasing motorcycle stands or a jack will be the way to go. They are affordable and easy to use. Some also have wheels installed on them, which makes it easy for you to move the elevated motorcycle around if needed.

Cover the motorcycle and exhaust pipe

Now you want to cover the motorcycle and exhaust pipe to prevent small critters from entering and damaging your wires or mechanical components. Mice like to nest inside exhaust pipes. An easy way to prevent this, use a plastic bag to cover the end of the exhaust. Not 100% critter-proof, but it will get the job done.

Once you have your exhaust covered, cover your motorcycle. Ideally, use a motorcycle cover. But if you don’t have one, any breathable material that doesn’t trap moisture inside it will work. Do not use a tarp, as it can lock in moisture and potentially corrode your motorbike.

Once it’s covered, your motorcycle is ready for hibernation!

FAQ

Should I run my motorcycle out of gas for the winter?

No, keeping your tank filled with fresh gas and adding fuel stabilizer to it will be better for your motorcycle. By doing this, you are eliminating the air in your tank. Having that pocket of air in the tank can hold condensation during storage, which can cause corrosion.

How long can a motorcycle sit without being started?

Motorcycles can easily sit without being started for five or six months if you have taken the proper precautions and performed the necessary maintenance to allow them to remain idle for extended periods. If you don’t take the necessary care for your motorcycle, the likelihood of having mechanical issues is high.

Will snow damage a motorcycle?

Yes, snow can damage a motorcycle if it is not properly cleaned and dried after riding. The salt and moisture will speed the corrosion process. Additionally, leaving it out in the snow risks draining the battery, and the fluids can gel or freeze, potentially causing mechanical issues.