Posted by Bye bye season, hello hibernation! How to winterize your motorcycle properly
The motorcycle season is coming to an end for most of us. Now is the time to prepare your bike for the winter. A few simple measures will ensure that your motorcycle survives the cold season well and is ready to go again in spring.
In this article, we show you important steps to winterize your motorcycle in the best possible way and avoid typical winter problems such as rust, corrosion and flat batteries.
Why is winterizing important?
Winterizing your bike correctly protects it from moisture, temperature fluctuations and dirt, which can cause damage over months. Moisture promotes rust formation, the battery can discharge and flat tires are often a problem. If you prepare your motorcycle carefully for the winter, you can start the new season in spring without any worries.
So, here we go!
Tip 1: Thorough cleaning
Before the motorcycle goes into hibernation, a thorough cleaning is a must. Dirt and salt residues from road traffic can cause corrosion and paint damage if they remain on the bike for months. Also remember to thoroughly clean the hard-to-reach areas such as under the tank, behind the fairing or under the seat. It is then important to allow all areas to dry completely. If you have already discovered the first signs of rust, it is best to remove it before the winter break to prevent it from spreading further.
- Water and mild detergent: Use water and a mild detergent to gently remove dirt.
- Drying: Make sure that your motorcycle is completely dry before storing it. Remaining water can promote corrosion.
Tip 2: Tire pressure against flat spots
Long downtimes can lead to so-called “flat spots”, as the weight is permanently on one tire surface.
- Main stand or assembly stand: If possible, place the motorcycle on the main stand. Alternatively, an assembly stand can help to take the load off the tires.
- Increase the tire pressure slightly: If you have no way of raising the bike, increase the tire pressure by about 0.5 bar to maintain the tire shape. Of course, always observe the maximum pressure specification.
Tip 3: Liquids
An oil change before winter is always a good precautionary measure and with a fresh oil change before winter, you don’t have to carry out any further maintenance work in this regard in spring and can start the season straight away.
Also check the coolant level and add antifreeze if necessary. If the water freezes, this can cause damage to the engine or the lines. Also take the opportunity to thoroughly lubricate the drive chain again.
Tip 4: Disconnect and maintain the battery
The battery is particularly sensitive to cold and should therefore be disconnected and stored in a suitable place.
- Removal and storage: Remove the battery and store it in a place with a constant temperature.
- Charge regularly: To prevent deep discharge, the battery should be recharged from time to time (every four to six weeks). Alternatively, you can use a trickle charger to keep the charge constant.
Tip 5: Cover correctly and choose a location
The storage location plays a major role in winterizing. It is best to store your motorcycle in a dry, frost-free and well-ventilated place.
- Tarpaulin: Use a breathable tarpaulin that allows moisture to escape and prevents mold growth. Make sure that the tarpaulin does not lie directly on the paintwork. To prevent moisture build-up and resulting damage such as rust, you should lift and air the tarpaulin regularly – and protect the bike well from moisture.
- Choice of location: A covered, sheltered space is ideal. Garages are perfect, but a carport or covered area may also be sufficient. If the motorcycle is outdoors, a tarpaulin is essential. This should also be breathable or have sufficient ventilation openings to prevent moisture build-up.
A tip for anyone who wants their motorcycle to be particularly well looked after over the winter:
Many workshops offer a special winter service. They collect the bike directly from your home, store it professionally and take care of the necessary maintenance during the winter months. Your bike will then be fully prepared for the start of the season – from an oil change to battery care and a check of all important fluids and components. This not only saves you the work of winterizing, but also means you can ride off again in spring without having to do anything yourself.
Conclusion: How to get your motorcycle through the winter well protected
These steps will keep your bike in top shape throughout the winter. A few hours of care and preparation will save you time and nerves in spring and extend the service life of your bike. When the first warm days arrive, you can start riding again without any major preparations.
So, get your bike ready for winter and enjoy the quiet season – next spring is sure to come!
Winter break for your motorcycle – perfect time to plan your dream tours for the new season with Kurviger!
While your motorcycle is well wrapped up and protected against the dangers of winter, you can use the cold season to start planning for the next season – and that’s where Kurviger comes in! Even when the bike is at rest, your passion for riding doesn’t have to be put on ice.
Kurviger and the Kurviger app allow you to discover new, winding routes, save them safely, ride them and customize them to suit your preferences. What’s particularly practical is that Kurviger offers you exactly the kind of roads that you enjoy as a motorcyclist – be it with lots of bends, away from highways, or through picturesque landscapes.
So take advantage of the winter break to plan your next adventures on two wheels now and prepare for spring.
