How to Inspect Your Harley-Davidson for Hidden Winter Damage

If you're like most Harley-Davidson owners, pulling your bike out of winter storage is one of the greatest feelings in the world. After months of cold weather and snow, you're finally able to get back on the road and take your first ride of the season. Before this can happen, it's important to inspect your Harley for any issues or signs of damage. The following is a list of things you should pay attention to so you can enjoy the ride with peace of mind.

Check for Visible Damage

Begin your inspection checklist with a complete parts once-over. Inspect the exterior of your bike for signs of rust and corrosion and look for signs that pests have chewed through upholstery or wires. You should also look for oil, coolant and brake fluid leaks. If you spot any of these issues, it's important to address them immediately. For rust, apply a small amount of chrome polish and buff in with a soft cloth until it's gone. Replace damaged seats and any wiring.

Inspect the Battery

During winterization, you should have put your battery on a trickle charger. This would keep it in top condition and ready for spring. Before you turn the ignition, inspect the battery. Check for signs of corrosion around the battery terminals and clean the posts with a mixture of baking soda and water. Test the voltage of your motorcycle battery and make sure you have a reading of around 12.6. If not, it may be time to look for a replacement.

Test the Electrical System

Canada winters can be hard on your Harley-Davidson's electrical system. Check all the lights, including the headlights, tail lights, brakes and turn signals. Turn on any additional electronics, such as your radio, or GPS and test the horn. If anything seems amiss, try changing the fuses or looking for loose wiring.

Clean and Lube the Chain

Some Harley-Davidson's have a chain drive and storing your bike for an extended period can leave it dry and rusty. Clean the chain with a non-corrosive cleaner to remove rust and grime and allow it to dry. Apply a fresh coat of chain lubricant. If your Harley has a belt drive, inspect the belt for cracks, wear or tension issues.

Change the Oil

Changing the oil isn't always necessary, but it's a good idea to check the levels and drain the oil if it looks thick or if condensation has formed in the oil pan. When changing the oil, you can also check other fluid levels. Top off the fuel in your gas tank. If you winterized your bike, you should have added fuel stabilizer, so there won't be any need to drain the tank. You may want to contact the service department for an appointment for professional service.

Check Your Tires

Finally, inspect your tires. Check your tread depth and look for any flat spots from where the bike sat. Be sure to move your bike forward to look for potential issues on all sides.

Winter can be tough on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle, but with a few steps, you can get it in top working order before you hit the streets. If you need any help with service, you can always contact Redline Harley for maintenance and repairs.