PREPARE FOR THE WINTER: GUIDE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS
Planning to take your motorcycle off the road this winter? Storing your bike over winter isn’t as simple as just parking it in the garage. Discover how to safely winterize your motorcycle with Honda’s latest blog, packed with our expert insights into keeping your pride and joy in top condition. From engine to exhaust, read on for everything you need to know about keeping your bike well-maintained during winter storage… and hitting the road safely when spring finally arrives!
Why it’s important to prepare your motorbike for winter storage
As the days draw in and the temperature drops, road conditions get more hazardous for everyone, but particularly for motorcyclists. Some motorcyclists ride year-round with heated gear and modifications to their motorbikes, but many choose to store their bikes over winter instead. If you’re thinking of storing your bike due to weather conditions in your location, for safety reasons or just as a matter of personal comfort, it’s very important to prepare for storage correctly.
Whether motorbikes are stored indoors in a garage or shed, or outside with a simple cover, long periods of inactivity are a recipe for engine problems, broken parts, expensive repair bills and compromised road safety. The good news is that with just a few simple steps you can store your bike safely and get back on the road smoothly when the warmer weather returns!
Give it a good scrub
Before storing your motorcycle for winter, your first step is to give it a thorough clean. Cleaning your bike not only leaves it looking great, but also protects it from corrosion. Use a gentle wash to remove dirt and grime, and take this opportunity to check for loose or faulty components. Then protect metal surfaces, particularly on the undercarriage, with a quality lubricant or metal-preserving spray. This will keep your bike gleaming and ready for spring adventures.
Take care of your chain
Your chain plays a crucial role in a smooth riding experience but often becomes clogged up with muck, so it deserves some TLC. Use Honda chain cleaner to remove grit and grime, and then lubricate with Honda chain lube. These premium products ensure your chain stays in prime condition, so you’re ready to roll when the sun shines again.
Out with the old
Old, dirty oil is laden with sludge and contaminants that can wreak havoc on your bike's internal components. Swapping it out for fresh Honda genuine oil and a new filter is a must before winter storage. This simple step prevents sludge build-up and keeps your engine running smoothly when you start her up in spring.
Fill or empty the fuel tank
Deciding whether to fill or empty your fuel tank depends on your bike. In general, metal tanks should never be stored empty, because it allows rust to form inside the tank - although you can buy products that coat the inside of the tank to prevent this. If you’re storing your bike with a filled tank, be aware that fuel can go bad within a month, so you must add a fuel stabiliser to keep the fuel fresh and prevent damage to the fuel system.
Time for some anti-freeze
If your bike is liquid-cooled, don’t forget the anti-freeze. This is a crucial step to prevent the cooling liquid from freezing and expanding inside the bike, which could damage vital components.
Battery care
Your battery needs special attention in winter too. Store it in a dry, warm place and charge it regularly. Alternatively, connect it to a trickle charger to ensure it’s ready to power up again when you are.
Check your tyres
Properly inflated tyres are essential to prevent damage during long periods of inactivity. Consider adding a bit of extra air to reduce the load and keep them in good shape through dips in temperature. In very cold conditions, raising the bike on blocks will prevent deformation to the tyres. Make sure the bike is securely anchored to avoid the risk of it falling.
Keep out the mice
Avoid any unexpected visitors of the rodent variety by plugging your exhaust firmly with rags. Mice are very resourceful and will find their way into any number of crevices to make a cosy nest, so deter them with mothballs - they hate the smell!
Cover with care
A breathable cover is a must for storing your bike, both indoors and outdoors. A breathable cover protects against moisture and condensation while maintaining ventilation. This means your bike will stay dry and dust-free during storage.
When spring returns…
It may seem a long way off right now, but spring will come again! Once the warmer weather arrives you might be itching to hit the road, but look over your bike carefully before your ride off. Make sure you:
- Check fluid levels
- Remove the rags from your exhaust
- Set your tyre pressure back to normal
And there you have it - your simple guide for safe motorbike storage over winter! Don’t forget, Honda has a wide range of care products available that are specifically designed to protect your bike. Visit your closest dealer for expert advice and premium maintenance products. Then enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your ride is in top condition, just waiting for that first bright spring day.
Need parts or accessories to prepare your Honda motorcycle for winter? Contact your nearest dealer to ensure your ride is ready for the season.
