Winterizing your motorcycle: incl. checklist & insider tips 2024!
Winter is just around the corner and you may be wondering how to winterize your motorcycle.
In this article, we will show you step by step how to winterize your bike properly so that it remains in top condition even after the cold months.
The MYCOVER® team clarifies!
Preparation: The first step to a winter-proof motorcycle
Washing and drying the motorcycle
Before you winterize your motorcycle, a thorough cleaning is essential. Dirt, salt and dust can cause long-term damage if they stick to the motorcycle over the winter.
- Clean your motorcycle thoroughly with water and a special motorcycle cleaner.
- Dry the bike carefully to prevent rust from forming. A thorough clean is also an important step when thinking about motorcycle gift ideas, as care products are always welcome.
Change oil and check fluids
- Change the oil: Fresh oil protects the engine better against corrosion during the winter break.
- Check the coolant and top up or change if necessary.
- Check the brake fluid and replace if necessary.
Electrical components and battery
Removing and storing the battery
The battery should be removed and stored in a warm, dry place.
- Remove the battery: Failure to do so can quickly result in damage and reduced battery life.
- Storing the battery: Store in a cool, dry place and recharge occasionally to maintain the voltage.
Tire care and jacking up
Increase tire pressure
- Increase the tire pressure by 0.2 to 0.3 bar to avoid a flat tire.
Or
Jacking up the motorcycle
- Jack up the rear wheel and front wheel to take the weight off the tires and protect them from the long pressure build-up
- Alternatively, you can place the bike on wooden or rubber mats to minimize or completely prevent contact with the ground.
Tank and fuel system
Filling or emptying the tank
A full tank prevents rust forming inside.
- Tank full: Fill the tank to the brim with petrol and add a fuel stabilizer. This means you can set off straight away on your next tour and don’t have to refuel beforehand.
- Tank empty: The tank should be emptied, especially in the case of plastic tanks, as this material is easily decomposable and the fuel could leak out.
Protection from the weather
Covers and location
- Use a Motorcycle covers: A breathable cover protects against dust and moisture. Our MYCOVER Indoor Covers are particularly suitable for this.
- Suitable location: A dry garage is ideal. If you have to winter your bike outside, make sure you have a weatherproof cover and a place protected from the wind.
- A winter-proof Motorcycle cover offers the best protection against the harsh winter conditions. We also have a solution for this – our weatherproof outdoor Covers provide protection even in the depths of winter.
- In addition, you can increase your anti-theft protection for the motorcycle by combining the cover with an ABUS lock. This provides basic motorcycle theft protection and effectively protects your motorcycle from opportunist thieves.
Motorcycle winter-proof: checklist to download
The following checklist will help you to carry out all the necessary steps for a winterized motorcycle.
- Cleaning: Thorough cleaning: Wash the entire motorcycle to remove dirt, insect residue, salt and other deposits. It is particularly important to clean hard-to-reach areas where dirt and moisture can become trapped. Dry wipe: Dry the motorcycle thoroughly to prevent corrosion caused by residual moisture. Use a microfiber cloth and compressed air to remove moisture from gaps and joints. Surface protection: Apply wax or polish to painted surfaces to protect them from the weather. Special corrosion protection for metals is useful, especially for chrome-plated parts and screws.
- Oil and fluids: Oil change: Old engine oil can form harmful deposits while the engine is not running. A fresh oil change before winter reduces this risk and protects the engine parts. Coolant: Check the coolant level and antifreeze level. If the coolant is too old, it may no longer function optimally and may cause damage. Brake fluid: Brake fluid attracts water, which can promote corrosion in the brake system. If the brake fluid is older, it is worth changing it before winter.
- Battery: Remove the battery: Remove the battery and store it in a dry, frost-free place. Cold temperatures can severely impair the battery’s performance and lead to complete discharge. Charge regularly: Connect the battery to a trickle charger every few weeks to maintain the voltage and prevent deep discharge. Alternatively, a smart charger can be used to regularly charge and maintain the battery.
- Tires and jacking up: Increase the tire pressure: Increase the tire pressure by about 0.2 to 0.3 bar to prevent flat spots. The tire pressure can gradually drop when the bike is stationary for longer periods. Jack up the motorcycle: If possible, place the motorcycle on a mounting stand so that the tires do not touch the ground. Alternatively, rubber mats can be placed under the tires to cushion the weight and prevent flat spots.
- Tank and fuel system: Fill the tank: Fill the tank completely to prevent condensation, which can lead to rust in the tank. In the event of prolonged downtime, it may be advisable to add a fuel stabilizer to make the fuel more durable. Emptying plastic tanks: Plastic tanks can become deformed if they are filled for a long time. In this case, it is advisable to empty the tank or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Protection from the weather: Use a Motorcycle covers: Use a breathable, weatherproof cover to protect your motorcycle from dust and moisture. A breathable cover prevents condensation from forming and also protects against dirt and scratches. Protected location: The best place for storage is a dry, well-ventilated garage. If the motorcycle is stored outdoors, a particularly robust cover is required to ensure optimum protection even in wind and weather.
- Lubricants and seals: Lubricate the chain: Clean and lubricate the chain thoroughly to prevent rust formation. This is particularly important if the bike has been standing for several months. Protect seals and rubber parts: Rub seals and other rubber parts with a suitable care product to keep them supple and prevent them from drying out.
- Documentation: Make notes: Document the steps you have taken and make a note of what still needs to be checked or maintained in the spring. This makes it easier to get back on track and gives you an overview of what still needs to be done after the winter break.
These steps will help to get the bike safely through the winter and keep it in good condition for the next season.
You can also download the checklist here. Feel free to print it out to be 100% prepared for the next winter.
Conclusion
Winterizing your motorcycle is an important measure to ensure the longevity and performance of your motorcycle. With the right preparation and care, your bike will survive the winter without any problems and will be ready to go in the spring.
Use these instructions and the checklist to make sure you take all the necessary steps. So your bike stays in top shape even in icy temperatures!
Frequently asked questions about winterizing motorcycles
Can I winter my motorcycle outside?
Yes, you can winterize your motorcycle outside, but it is important to cover it well and protect it from the weather. A winter-proof Motorcycle covers that is breathable and weatherproof is essential.
Our tip: Take a look at our Motorcycle covers advisor to find out which size fits your motorcycle.
How much does it cost to winterize a motorcycle?
The cost of winterizing a motorcycle varies depending on the measures taken. Basic steps such as winterizing the battery and fluids are relatively inexpensive. Professional winterization services can vary in price depending on the scope of services. Prices here are often between €30 and €50 per month.
Can I ride a motorcycle in winter?
Yes, with the right equipment and preparation, it is possible to ride a motorcycle in winter. Make sure you wear winter-proof clothing and suitable tires. You can also winterize your bike or bring it out of hibernation at any time by following the instructions above.
When should you cover your motorcycle with a Motorcycle cover in winter?
In order to avoid depreciation and unnecessary repairs, a motorcycle should always be covered. A good cover protects indoor and outdoor areas from dirt, grime and damage. A tear-resistant Covers is also a good theft protection for opportunist thieves. Security can be further increased by combining a Covers with an ABUS lock.
Premium outdoor Motorcycle covers from MYCOVER®
A high-quality motorcycle deserves a high-quality Motorcycle covers
The MYCOVER® Premium Outdoor Motorcycle covers also offer your motorcycle optimum protection against moisture, dirt and scratches. With 10x well thought-out functions – developed by bikers for bikers – for optimum value retention of your motorcycle!
It is suitable for year-round outdoor use in winter, but also works wonderfully as an indoor Motorcycle cover for your garage or carport.