Everything you need to know about end of season motorcycle maintenance

Posted on November 27, 2018 in Maintenance, Motorcycle Repair

The cold weather is here in full force, and it’s time to start thinking about end-of-season bike maintenance. Here's everything you need to know about caring for your bike through the winter months.

Cleaning and Drying

Cleaning and drying your bike is especially important when preparing to store your bike for the winter. A lot of steam is released when the bike is wet and the engine is hot, especially if it’s stored in a cold garage, creating the perfect conditions for corrosion to form. The warm steam can easily condense in certain areas and create water spots where you wouldn’t normally find them. It can also create condensation in weird places like fuse boxes, electrical connections, and even your gas tank, causing rust and corrosion as temperatures drop. Before putting your bike away for the season, you should make sure to dry it thoroughly and lubricate any points that need it, such as brake pivots and gear linkages to prevent damage.

Battery Care

You should also ensure that the battery terminals are completely clean and away from any direct heat sources or chemicals. Keep the batteries charged if the bike is only being used for short trips; if you're not planning to use your bike at all during winters, you should remove the battery completely.

Don’t Forget About Your Accessories

As riding season comes to an end, it’s important to prepare all your gear for storage too, especially your helmet. For the most part, the shell, visor, and vents can all be cleaned with a gentle soap, and the inner padding can either be thrown in the wash or soaked in a solution of water and baby shampoo. Abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals tend to strip the color and can compromise its protection capabilities. Be sure to dry the helmet completely-- both inside and out-- before packing it away to prevent mold and bacteria from growing. If you own a Bluetooth motorcycle helmet, you should refer to the owner’s manual for optimal cleaning techniques and end of season care, as certain cleaning techniques could damage the electronic parts.

At V&F

For oil changes, fluid services, and other end-of-season maintenance, you need top-notch professional service. At V&F, our technicians will make sure you receive the answers, maintenance services, and repair solutions you need. We’ll put your motorcycle on an effective maintenance schedule that’s perfectly suited for your vehicle and your driving habits so you can keep it on the road for years to come. If your bike needs maintenance or repair before this winter season, call us at (413) 314-2280, schedule an appointment online, or feel free to stop by our facility next time you’re in the area; we gladly accept all of our walk-ins, and look forward to servicing your bike!