Preparing Your Motorcycle for Winter

You know it's important to prepare your motorcycle for winter storage - but where do you start? When it comes to motorcycle maintenance, it can be hard knowing what you can do and what you need a professional to handle. We created the following guide to make the process as simple for you as possible. If you do encounter maintenance that you need help with, visit the service department at Rommel Harley-Davidson® in Smyrna. We are located in Smyrna, Delaware.

Check Your Fluids

Before you put your motorcycle in storage, you'll want to make sure all your fluids are full and fresh, Check the engine's fluids (such as brake, clutch, and coolant). It never hurts to fully drain them and fill with fresh liquids. Depending on how cold it gets in your neighborhood in winter, you may want to use antifreeze to keep your engine from freezing. Then you'll want to lubricate the throttle, kickstand, shifter, and clutch cables. For the last step, top off your gas tank and add in fuel stabilizer (it prevents damage from old gasoline). Then head out for a short spin around the block - it helps the fuel stabilizer work through the carburetor.

Protect Your Battery

If you leave your battery unattended in the bitter cold, you can expect some damage. It's a complex and sensitive piece of machinery that does not handle extreme temperatures drops well. Fortunately, there are two easy approaches. One, you can leave it on your motorcycle. You'll just need to fully charge it each month (as it will drain as it sits connected to your bike). Two, you can take it off your bike and connect to a trickle charge or battery maintainer. You'll just need to store it at room temperature and far from conductive surfaces.

Protect Your Tires

Winter storage poses two threats to your tires: changing temperatures and excessive sitting. Both of these can wear down your tires and decrease their lifespan. One great proactive approach is to suspend your motorcycle. It'll get your tires off the ground so that they aren't experiencing the weight of your bike. If that isn't an option for you, you'll need a different approach. Fill up your tires to the maximum recommended amount and rotate the front tire once a week (it'll prevent flat spots). 

Inspect Your Oil and Filter

Look at your oil before you store your motorcycle. Old oil can cause damaging corrosion to your engine parts if it's left to sit for a period of time. If it seems questionable, don't take any chances! Replace the oil and filter to keep your bike safe.

Block Out the Critters

You may not think your motorcycle looks very cozy to critters, but they love the dark quiet nooks and crannies. Many will make your mufflers and air cleaners their new home. You'll need to block the entrances to keep this from happening. Stuff a sandwich bag with steel wool into the air intake and tailpipes. The bag keeps the steel wool from entering the engine. Just make sure to remember to remove it before you ride again in the spring!

If you need to service your motorcycle before winter, stop by Rommel Harley-Davidson in Smyrna. Our expert staff can inspect your motorcycle and fix any issues. You'll be able to take your bike out in the spring knowing it's ready to hit the road! We also offer a range of new and used motorcycles for sale. We are located in Smyrna, Delaware near Dover and Middletown. We serve all the areas from Wilmington and Bear all the way to Newark, New Jersey and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.