Motorcyclists are generally a hardy bunch; favoring the open air, wind in the face conditions of two wheels to the climate controlled confinement of a car, or “cage” as it’s known to bikers. But in areas where winters are harsh, with temperatures remaining below freezing for weeks on end, even the toughest motorcycle enthusiasts find it necessary to park the bike till spring.

There’s more to waiting out the winter than simply putting your motorcycle in the garage, unless you don’t mind a costly trip to your local dealership come warmer weather. Taking the time to get your bike ready for winter will mean you’re good to go on that first warm day of the new riding season.

Choosing A Storage Location

A garage or storage shed is the best place to store your motorcycle for the winter. Make sure it’s dry. If your garage has windows put the bike in an area not exposed to direct sunlight as the rising and falling of the temperatures in direct sunlight will lead to condensation and rust on your motorcycle.

Change The Oil

Start the motorcycle and let it idle to normal running temperature. This will help the oil to drain more easily and dry out any internal moisture that may have developed since your last ride. Drain the crankcase and dispose of the old oil. Replace the oil filter and then refill the crankcase with fresh oil. Since the engine oil on most motorcycles also lubricates the clutch, don’t use oil additives; they can lead to clutch slippage.

Lubricate The Cylinders

If your motorcycle will sit idle for longer than six weeks you’ll want to remove the sparkplugs and insert about a teaspoonful of new engine oil into each plughole. Then put the bike into the highest gear and manually turn the rear wheel a couple of revolutions. This will coat the cylinder walls, piston rings and valve seats and protect them from moisture. Put the sparkplugs back in.

Fill The Fuel Tank

A full tank will keep moisture and rust from developing inside the tank. Add a fuel stabilizer that will keep the gasoline from thickening and clogging fuel jets or carburetors. If your bike has carburetors as opposed to fuel injection you’ll need to loosen the drain bolts on each carb and drain the fuel. Tighten the drain bolts before filling the tank.

Wash And Prep The Body

Thoroughly wash, wax and dry your motorcycle. Spray a light coating of WD40 on all chrome to help prevent rust. Make sure the mufflers have cooled completed and carefully push a plastic bag inside each muffler to keep moisture from forming there. Then cover each muffle with another plastic bag. Lube all cables, pivot points of levers, pedals and the side stand.

Tire Care

Inflate the tires fully. Place a couple of half-inch thick squares of cardboard under the tires to keep them out of direct contact with the floor. This will help keep the tires from coming into contact with freezing temperatures that can cause them to crack or degrade.

Battery Care

If there’s an electrical outlet close by you can leave the battery in the bike and simply attach a battery tender directly to the battery. If your storage area doesn’t have electricity or temperatures in the garage will be below 30 F for an extended period you’ll need to remove the battery and store it somewhere warmer, attached to a battery tender.

Use A Motorcycle Cover

Covering your bike will further protect it from moisture and dust. Don’t use a tarp or sheet, as these will trap moisture on the bike. Most covers made specifically for motorcycles are manufactured from porous materials that will allow moisture to escape.

In The Spring

On the first warm day of spring you’ll be tempted to pull the cover off the bike, fire it up and go for a ride. But you’ll want to take a few minutes to prep first. Check the tire pressure and inflate as necessary. Give the bike a thorough inspection. Take the bags out of the mufflers. Then start it and check your brake lights, turn indicators, hazard flashers, high beams and horn. Then you’re ready to tackle another riding season.

Alternative To Do It Yourself

If you don’t have room in the garage or storage shed for your bike, or you’re not comfortable changing your own oil, check with your local dealership. Many offer winter prep and storage services. While this will be more costly than doing the work yourself it will be less expensive than the repairs you’ll need if you don’t store your motorcycle properly.