The end of the riding season is near for many motorcyclists
, and the needed to get the motorcycle prepped for storage is at it's highest point. There are a number of steps that you can take to get your machine ready for the few months that it sit idle until it can be fired up again.
Gas
One thing that you should do to prepare your motorcycle for storage is treat the gas with a fuel stabilizer. Fuel stabilizers prevent gasoline from breaking down during the extended time period when it is not used. It's important that you treat the gasoline in your motorcycle with fuel stabilizer so that the tank and fuel lines do not become clogged with the matter that is created when fuel breaks down. Fuel begins to break down between 60 and 90 days if it is not used, so if you plan on storing your motorcycle for a period longer than this, then the fuel stabilizer treatment will be needed.
Oil
It's often a good idea to change the oil in your motorcycle before winter storage for the same reasons that you would change the gasoline. Oil, especially used oil, can contain particles that can clog oil lines and perhaps cause further damage if it sits idle for long periods of time.
Tires
If you're motorcycle cannot be stored in a heated environment, then you'll want to at least get it up off the cold and frozen ground either with a motorcycle stand or by putting wood blocks under the tires. This will prevent any hard spots from forming due to the cold ground.
Spark Plugs
Remove the spark plugs from the cylinder and store them in a safe place. When the spark plugs have been removed, plug the holes where the spark plugs were with a lint free towel or other type of cloth. This will prevent air from getting into the cylinders and causing condensation.
Cover
If your motorcycle is going to be stored for a long period of time, then you'll want to cover it in order to prevent dust and dirt buildup.
Battery
Remove the battery from your motorcycle and store it at room temperature in your basement or any other type of storage area that is not easily accessible. Storing your battery at room temperature over the winter months will help preserve overall battery life.