Winter storage: the six things we do to every bike

A bike that sits for five months in a Colorado winter comes back fine if six small things are done before it parks. Here is our list, in the order we do it.

Fuel and oil

We top up the tank, add stabilizer and run the engine for five minutes so treated fuel reaches the injectors or the carbs. Then a fresh oil change, because used oil carries acids that sit on the bearings all winter.

Battery and tires

The battery goes on a smart tender that keeps it at full charge without cooking it. The tires get inflated to the maximum on the sidewall, and the bike sits on stands so they don’t flat-spot.

Plugs and a cover

The exhaust tips and the airbox inlet get plugged against mice, and a breathable cover keeps the dust off. In March the plugs come out before the spring service, with a tag on the handlebar so nobody forgets.