Leaving A Motorcycle Outside In The Winter

Winter is coming, and as a motorcycle owner, it's time to start thinking about how the cold weather will affect your ride. Leaving a motorcycle outside in the winter can cause a lot of damage if you don't take the necessary precautions. In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks to help you protect your motorcycle during the winter months.

Why You Should Avoid Leaving A Motorcycle Outside In The Winter

Before we dive into the tips and tricks, it's important to understand why leaving a motorcycle outside in the winter is a bad idea. The cold weather can cause a lot of damage to your motorcycle, including:

Corrosion and rust
Battery damage
Fuel problems
Tire damage
Engine damage

Now that we know why it's important to protect your motorcycle during the winter, let's explore some tips and tricks to help you do just that.

Tip #1: Find A Covered Storage Area

The best way to protect your motorcycle during the winter is to store it in a covered area, such as a garage or shed. This will protect it from the elements, including snow, ice, and freezing rain. If you don't have a covered area to store your motorcycle, consider renting a storage unit for the winter.

Tip #2: Use A Motorcycle Cover

If you can't find a covered storage area for your motorcycle, consider using a motorcycle cover. A good motorcycle cover will protect your bike from the elements and prevent moisture from getting inside. Be sure to choose a cover that is specifically designed for motorcycles, as it will have the necessary features to protect your bike.

Tip #3: Prepare Your Motorcycle For Storage

Before you store your motorcycle for the winter, it's important to prepare it for storage. This includes:

Washing and drying your motorcycle to remove any dirt and grime
Changing the oil and filter
Filling up the gas tank and adding a fuel stabilizer
Removing the battery and storing it in a warm, dry place
Inflating the tires to the recommended pressure

By preparing your motorcycle for storage, you'll help prevent damage and ensure that it's ready to ride when the weather warms up.

Tip #4: Start Your Motorcycle Regularly

Even if you've prepared your motorcycle for storage, it's important to start it regularly during the winter months. This will prevent the battery from dying and keep the engine lubricated. Be sure to let the motorcycle warm up for a few minutes before turning it off again.

Tip #5: Avoid Riding In Bad Weather

If you do decide to ride your motorcycle during the winter months, be sure to avoid riding in bad weather. Snow, ice, and freezing rain can be extremely dangerous for motorcyclists, so it's best to stay off the roads until the weather clears up. If you must ride in bad weather, be sure to take extra precautions and ride slowly and carefully.

Conclusion

Leaving a motorcycle outside in the winter can cause a lot of damage if you don't take the necessary precautions. By finding a covered storage area, using a motorcycle cover, preparing your motorcycle for storage, starting your motorcycle regularly, and avoiding riding in bad weather, you can protect your motorcycle and ensure that it's ready to ride when the weather warms up.

Motorcycle Member