How Do I Store My Harley Over the Winter?
How Do I Store My Harley Over the Winter?
For many who drive a motorcycle, winter means storing their Harley or Honda away until the weather improves. Although there are safeguards you can take to make winter riding possible, bike hibernation is a choice many riders make, especially those who live in colder climates. Even if you store your bike over the winter in self-storage or another commercial storage unit, you’ll still need to winterize your motorcycle so that you're ready to ride come spring.
Motorcycle Winter Storage
As a machine, a motorcycle is a complex motor vehicle with several moving parts exposed to the elements. This is great during the riding season but causes corrosion and eventual metal failure if not cared for. Winterizing your bike should include the following:
- After the last ride of the season, you'll want to give your bike a good wash and remove the built-up dirt and grime.
- Use motorcycle stands to avoid flat spots on the motorcycle tires. This happens when the bike sits too long in one spot without moving.
- The fuel tank and fuel system need specific care. A fuel stabilizer for storing during winter months helps the carburetor work better come spring. Make sure you have a full tank with additives before storage.
- The motorcycle’s coolant system should have the correct balance of antifreeze and water.
- Check the lube situation for all moving parts where a high operating temperature melts away the lube.
- Do an oil change, top off the engine with fresh oil, and ensure the exhaust pipes work properly.
Don’t forget little things like spark plugs and the air intake. These small things can keep you off the road in the spring. Spark plugs can rust or develop corroded connections. An air intake can be blocked so that the engine doesn’t get the proper combustion. Once everything is ready, put a motorcycle cover on, then wait for spring. Your vintage Harley-Davidson will thank you.
Winter Harley-Davidson Storage
Your Harley deserves special care when the temperature dips below freezing. Store your bike in a dry area like a shed. At the very least, use a bike cover and keep an eye on tire pressure and battery drain.