Tech Tip - Seasonal Storage

 

Proper off-season storage is essential to maintain the safety and value of your motorcycle investment.  Plus it makes starting riding again in the spring a lot easier and more fun.  Please make sure you use the correct procedures and the proper fluids and lubricants.

Fuel

Make sure that there are no contaminants or moisture in the tank.  Fill with fresh fuel to prevent the tank from rusting.  Allow a little space for expansion.  Adding a fuel stabilizer is also a good idea.

Engine Oil

Change the engine oil and oil filter and refill with the proper engine oil.  Your owner’s manual or your dealer can tell you which oil to use.  After the oil change, run the engine for approximately 3 minutes to allow the clean oil to circulate through the engine. 

Battery Maintenance

The greatest cause of premature battery failure is cell sulfation caused by insufficient battery care during storage periods.  Normally, this is either the battery is allowed to fully discharge or the battery is “cooked” by overcharging.  Except for areas with extremely low temperatures it is acceptable to leave the battery installed in the motorcycle assuming you provide proper care as follows:

  1. Maintain proper electrolyte level, adding distilled water as necessary to flooded acid batteries only.  For Maintenance Free batteries this is not required. 
  2. Keep the battery case and terminals clean.
  3. Charge the battery for 10 hours every few weeks using an automatic charger with a maximum output of 2 amps.   Caution, batteries can give off explosive and corrosive gasses, especially during charging.  Remove any motorcycle cover prior to charging.  Most late model BMW motorcycles have Canbus electronics and can require a special BMW battery charger. Batteries are really expensive; looking after them properly can significantly extend their useful life.

Brake Fluid

If the annual brake fluid change has not been performed recently, it is advisable to change the brake (and clutch fluid if applicable) as contaminated fluid will cause corrosion and deterioration of the hydraulic systems.  Fluid should be light amber in colour.  If it is dark or cloudy, the system must be flushed and renewed.

Cleaning and Waxing

Since dirt retains moisture and may contain corrosive materials, storing a dirty motorcycle can lead to corrosion on alloy castings as well as chrome and cadmium components.  Thoroughly wash and dry the motorcycle.  Polish and wax all painted and chrome surfaces.  Spray the unpainted castings with corrosion protectant to retard corrosion and rust.

Chassis Lubrication

Grease the side and center stand pivots to purge any water or contaminants from these pivot points. Treat other pivot points; those without grease fittings, with a water displacing light lubricant spray such as CRC556 or WD 40.  Also lubricate hinges, lock mechanisms, and handlebar switches.

Tires

Inflate tires to recommended pressures and inspect/remove gravel, glass etc. from the tread.  Have a look for the wear bars that appear on worn tires.  Check the tread depth with a tread gauge.  Minimum tread depth is 1.6 to 2mm. Park the motorcycle on the center stand and use wood blocks to remove any weight from the wheels.  Motorcycles without center stands should be moved every few weeks to prevent motorcycle sitting on the same part of the tires for an extended period. 

Storage

Store the motorcycle in a dry, ventilated area.  Do not store in direct sunlight.  A cover, if used, must be vented to prevent moisture being trapped inside the cover.

Fluids, Chargers, and Motorcycle Covers

We have all of the parts and fluids that you need to prepare your motorcycle for storage. We also have chargers and motorcycle covers.

The Easy Way

If you prefer, we can look after all of your motorcycle storage needs.  We offer heated, secure storage at $100.00 per month.  We can also handle all of the preparations required to store your motorcycle properly.  We even offer pick-up and delivery.