Last Sunday I rode up to the car wash, a final farewell to the 2010 season. It was a great year, but it’s now late November, all the leaves have fallen, and I could see my breath as I waited at the intersection. Once squeaky clean, there are still a few more things to be done. Below are some areas to pay attention to before tucking your bike in for the winter.
1. Wash your bike thoroughly after your last ride of the season. Never park a dirty bike. (If using a car wash, be careful not to blast the wheel bearings.) Dirt, bugs and debris can damage the paint and windshield if left too long, especially a season.
2. Change the Oil. Not only will you be ready to go in the spring, dirty oil can become corrosive and can damage the seals.
3. Store with a full tank of gas. This will reduce condensation in the gas tank and water in the gas. Add a fuel stabilizer, such as Sta-Bil, to preserve the gas in the tank over the winter.
4. Use a battery tender or trickle charger if you don’t plan on starting it up regularly through the winter. Or sneaking out for a quick jaunt.
5. Check antifreeze on liquid cooled bikes.
6. Park on carpet or cardboard, rather than on bare concrete to reduce moisture.
7. Use a breathable cover, rather than a tarp, again, to allow moisture to escape.
Sweet scooter dreams, my friend. Until April..
Thanks for the tip to park on carpet or cardboard. I’d imagine that would help the tires last longer. I think this method is especially necessary where it snows a lot.