How to store your motorcycle for winter: a step-by-step guide

Winter storage is essential for several reasons, including:

• Preventing damage to vital components – cold temperatures, moisture, and inactivity can harm your motorcycle’s battery, fuel system and engine.

• Avoiding rust and corrosion – winter conditions can cause metal parts to rust, especially if your bike is uncovered and exposed to moisture or humidity.

• Maintaining battery life – batteries naturally discharge when unused, but cold temperatures can accelerate this process. A dead battery is one of the most common issues when trying to start a bike after winter.

• Preserving fuel quality – fuel deteriorates over time, creating varnish and gum that can cause costly problems.

• Keeping tires in good shape – long periods resting in one position can cause flat spots on tires and damage to the rubber.

Most importantly, preparing your motorcycle for winter storage is vital for ensuring motorcycle safety.

How long a motorcycle can sit inactive in winter depends on various factors, including its age and model and the conditions in which it’s stored.

Older motorcycles may require more care and attention.

As a rule, a motorcycle shouldn’t sit unused for too long in winter.

The battery typically suffers first and can start losing charge within a few weeks in cold temperatures. Fuel can start deteriorating, forming deposits that clog fuel systems. Oil drains from critical components during inactivity, and rubber seals can dry and crack.

However, how quickly your motorcycle deteriorates during storage depends on how you store it.

Preparing your motorcycle for inactivity in winter can help prevent these issues.

Clean your motorcycle

Cleaning your motorcycle before storage prevents dirt and debris from causing corrosion during the winter. Clean the rims and tires thoroughly, removing road grime and brake dust that can degrade rubber and metal surfaces over time.

Wash and dry the bike completely. Pay particular attention to dirtier, hard-to-reach areas where moisture might hide, such as the brake discs and rotors.

Finally, lubricate the chain, cables, and all moving parts to prevent rust from forming while the bike sits idle.

Is it ok to leave a motorcycle outside?

Leaving your motorcycle outside in winter exposes it to risks like moisture damage, frozen components, and UV degradation of plastics and paint.

If indoor storage isn’t an option, investing in a high-quality, waterproof and breathable motorcycle cover can minimise these risks and prevent condensation buildup.

Secure the cover properly and consider using a lock or alarm system for security.

Use a motorcycle stand

Motorcycle tires can develop flat spots when bearing the bike’s entire weight for extended periods during winter storage.

Using a centre stand or paddock stand to suspend the bike can remove weight and prevent flat spots.

If you can’t get a stand, rotating the tires regularly to change the point of contact can minimise the risk of flat spots.

Store in an unheated garage

An unheated garage is a better option than outdoor storage but still presents risks like condensation when temperatures fluctuate.

Checking tire pressure

Adequate tire pressure is key to protecting your motorcycle for winter storage, as cold temperatures cause air to contract and tire pressure to drop. tires with less pressure are more prone to flat spots developing where the same tire area contacts the ground for extended periods.

Before storage, inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which you can find in your owner’s manual or on a sticker on the motorcycle.

To further protect your tires, use a stand that takes the weight off the tires, like a centre stand or a paddock stand.

Preventing tire damage

The best tire protection comes from using a stand that completely elevates the tires off the ground.

If stands aren’t an option, routinely roll your motorcycle forwards or backwards a few inches to change the contact area between the tire and the ground.

Extreme temperature fluctuations and moisture can accelerate rubber deterioration, so storing your motorcycle in a cool, dry environment is ideal. Keeping tires away from direct sunlight reduces UV exposure, which can cause rubber to degrade quicker.

Leaving fuel untreated

One of the most common mistakes motorcycle owners make is leaving untreated fuel in the tank of their stored bike. Fuel can start deteriorating after a few weeks, forming sticky residues and clogging fuel injectors, carburettors, and fuel lines. These can be both tricky and costly to clean, often requiring professional help.

To avoid these issues, add a fuel stabiliser to your tank before storage, following the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate dosage.

Not maintaining the battery

Motorcycle batteries are particularly vulnerable in winter, as batteries drain quicker in cold temperatures. After many months, batteries can die, potentially causing permanent damage through sulfation (where lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, reducing capacity and charging ability).

A dead battery is one of the most common reasons motorcycles won’t start after winter storage.

The solution is to use a battery tender (otherwise known as a trickle charger). These devices charge just enough to keep the battery healthy without overcharging.

If you can’t use a tender, remove the battery completely and keep it in a temperature-controlled environment – ideally, a cold, dry place. Check it regularly and charge it monthly.

Neglecting tire care

Proper motorcycle tire maintenance is another overlooked aspect of preparing for winter storage.

Underinflated tires supporting the motorcycle’s weight for extended periods can develop flat spots. Check tire pressure before storage and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. After storage, check the tire pressure again and adjust appropriately before taking your first spring ride.