Once the cold weather arrives, some bikers decide the riding season is over. It's now time to properly store your motorcycle away for the winter. Follow these tips on how to properly store your bike for the winter, making spring time start-up much easier.

1. How to Store Your Motorcycle
Properly For Winter

2. North Carolina Motorcycle
Accident Attorney
Karney Law, a motorcycle accident law firm, is located in
Charlotte, North Carolina representing NC and SC bikers.
Winter is a season that can damage a motorcycle if not stored
properly. Here are a few tips on how to properly store your
motorcycle making it ready for next spring.

3. Step #1:
Choose a Location
Choosing an indoor location is best, but if stored outdoors, make
sure it’s covered correctly. This will protect the motorcycle against
insects, rodents, water and dust. Also, an indoor location will add
additional protection and added security.

4. Step #2:
Drain the Carburetor and
Fuel Lines
This is one of the most important and easiest steps a biker should
perform when storing their motorcycle for winter. Not draining it
can cause residue to clog the carburetor and injectors.
If stored for more than three months, it’s best to drain. If you
decide not to drain, make sure the fuel tank is completely full and
add a fuel stabilizer with the gas. This will help keep the gas from
turning into sludge.

5. Step #3:
Clean the Motorcycle
After the final ride, take the time to clean the motorcycle for
storage. Waxing and polishing may take some time, but it will act
as a barrier against rust and moisture. It’s well worth the time.
Make sure the motorcycle is completely dry and ALL metal parts
should be coated with an anti-corrosive product such as WD-40.

6. Step #4:
The Battery
The battery will eventually go dead if stored all winter and can
corrode at a fast pace. Best practice is to remove it completely. If
removed, check the fluid level and take time to clean any
corrosion.
If you don’t want to remove the battery, use a trickle charger to
keep the power level high.

7. Step #5:
Protect the Brakes
Brake fluid attracts water, so it’s best to drain the system and
bleed the lines with new fluid the following spring.
Another way you can protect the brakes is by placing cardboard or
paper between the pads and discs. This will help prevent them
from sticking. If not done, the pad could settle into the disc.

8. Step #6:
Protect the Tires
Check the front and rear tires with an air pressure gauge making
sure each tire has the correct amount of air. If you’re not sure
about the amount, you can find that information in your owner
manual.
By raising the tires up by ¼” – ½” on either wood or cardboard will
help prevent them from developing flat spots.

9. Step #7:
Exhaust and Mufflers
Exhaust and mufflers are known to rust quickly if not in use. Make
sure they are protected for winter storage by lightly spraying them
with WD-40 as this will protect them from corrosion. Another
suggestion is to lightly place a plastic bag into each muffler hole
and cover with another plastic bag. This will keep the moisture
from entering causing corrosion.

10. By following these suggestions, you’ll be able to protect your
motorcycle from the winter elements and spring start-up will be a
lot easier.
Motorcycle safety is always first. If you or someone you know has
been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact Bob Karney, a
motorcycle accident lawyer.