Storing your bike
Here in sunny South Africa, we don't have the same weather-related riding seasons as the rest of the world. This is especially true in the country's northern parts, where we have decent riding weather year round. If you live further south, the winter rains make riding challenging sometimes, and many riders prefer to store their bikes until the warmer weather returns.
For those living near coastal areas, this is even more important, as corrosive air and high moisture levels can wreck a still-standing bike.
Related: How do I perform basic motorbike maintenance tasks such as oil changes and chain adjustments?
If you are going to be putting your bike up for an extended time frame, there are a few things you can do to prevent deterioration so that when it is time to ride again, you won't have to do too much before you can get out on the road again. These tips will also protect your bike at the same time.
What are the signs of motorbike engine problems, and how do I troubleshoot them?
1. Top off the fuel tank
Top off the fuel tank and add a fuel stabiliser. This prevents condensation inside the tank and stops the fuel from breaking down and evaporating inside the carbs or injectors, causing blockages.
2. Wash 'n Wax
Give your bike a good wash to remove contaminants. Also, apply decent wax to painted surfaces to protect the paintwork from corrosion. It's also a good idea to wax the chain and give any other exposed metal parts a spritz of penetrating oil to prevent rust.
3. Bag it
If you have one, you can place the bike in an environmental bag to prevent corrosive air from getting to the bike. This also keeps dust and other debris off of the bike and will prevent other critters such as mice and birds from getting to your bike.
4. Move it occasionally
Occasionally rolling the bike around prevents flat spots from forming on the tyres and keeps the bearings from doing the same. it also pays to swing the motor over occasionally to circulate the oil to keep moving parts lubed up and oil from separating.
