Motorcycle Won T Start After Sitting For A Year
If you're a motorcycle owner, you know that taking care of your bike is crucial to keeping it in good condition. However, even the most diligent maintenance can't prevent all problems. One issue that some riders face is when their motorcycle won't start after sitting for a long period of time. This can be frustrating, especially if you're ready to hit the road after some time away. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why your motorcycle may not start after sitting for a year and what you can do to fix the problem.
Reasons Why Your Motorcycle Won't Start
Before we jump into the solutions, it's important to understand why your motorcycle won't start in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
Battery
The most likely culprit is the battery. Batteries lose charge over time, and if your motorcycle hasn't been started in a year, it's likely that the battery is dead. If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound, or no sound at all, this is a sign that the battery is dead.
Fuel
Another common issue is stale fuel. Gasoline can deteriorate over time, especially if it's been sitting in the tank for a year. If the fuel has gone bad, it can clog the fuel system and prevent the engine from starting.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel in the engine. If they're old or worn out, they may not be able to generate enough spark to start the engine.
Carburetor
The carburetor is responsible for mixing air and fuel to create the right ratio for combustion. If it's clogged or dirty, it can prevent the engine from starting.
What to Do When Your Motorcycle Won't Start
Now that you know some of the reasons why your motorcycle won't start, let's explore what you can do to fix the problem.
Check the Battery
The first step is to check the battery. If it's dead, you'll need to replace it. If it's just low on charge, you can try jump-starting the motorcycle or using a battery charger to get it back up to full power.
Drain the Fuel
If the fuel has gone bad, you'll need to drain the tank and refill it with fresh gasoline. You may also need to clean the fuel system to remove any debris or residue from the old gas.
Replace the Spark Plugs
If the spark plugs are old or worn out, you'll need to replace them. This is a relatively simple process that you can do yourself with the right tools.
Clean or Replace the Carburetor
If the carburetor is clogged or dirty, you can try cleaning it with carburetor cleaner. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace it completely.
Preventing Future Problems
Now that you've fixed the issue and your motorcycle is up and running again, it's important to take steps to prevent future problems. Here are some tips:
Keep the Battery Charged
Make sure to keep your battery charged, especially if you're not going to be riding for an extended period of time. You can use a battery tender to keep the battery at full power.
Use Fuel Stabilizer
If you're going to be storing your motorcycle for an extended period of time, add fuel stabilizer to the tank. This will help prevent the fuel from going bad and clogging the fuel system.
Start Your Motorcycle Regularly
If possible, start your motorcycle regularly, even if you're not going to be riding it. This will help keep the battery charged and prevent the fuel from going bad.
Conclusion
If your motorcycle won't start after sitting for a year, don't panic. There are several reasons why this may be happening, but with some troubleshooting and maintenance, you can get your bike up and running again. Remember to keep your battery charged, use fuel stabilizer, and start your motorcycle regularly to prevent future problems.