As colder weather approaches, it's time to think about protecting your motorcycle during the months you won't be riding. Proper Harley-Davidson® winter storage preparation can help prevent avoidable maintenance problems and make the transition back to riding easier in spring. Boston Harley-Davidson® shares three important steps to take before putting your bike away for the season.
Clean and Inspect Your Motorcycle
Before storing your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle, thoroughly wash and dry it to remove road grime, salt, and other contaminants that could damage its finish. Consider applying appropriate protective products to painted and metal surfaces to help prevent corrosion. This is also a good opportunity to inspect your tires for excessive wear, cracks, or other damage and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. A clean, breathable cover can provide additional protection against dust during storage.
Check Fluids and Prepare the Fuel System
Check your motorcycle's engine oil and other essential fluids before long-term storage. Changing the oil may be appropriate if the motorcycle is due for service, while brake fluid, hydraulic clutch fluid, and coolant, where equipped, should be maintained according to the manufacturer's recommended intervals. For gasoline-powered motorcycles, use fresh fuel and an appropriate fuel stabilizer to help prevent deterioration during storage. Follow the product instructions and your owner's manual to ensure the treated fuel circulates through the system.
Maintain Your Motorcycle Battery
A motorcycle battery can gradually lose its charge when the bike sits unused for several weeks or months. To help prevent a dead battery, connect a compatible battery maintainer designed for your motorcycle's battery type, following the manufacturer's instructions. Unlike a standard charger, an appropriate maintainer monitors the battery and helps preserve its charge during extended storage. Proper battery care can make it easier to get your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle ready when riding season returns.
Schedule Harley-Davidson® Winter Storage in Boston, MA
Professional storage can help protect your motorcycle during the colder months. Boston Harley-Davidson® offers a secured, heated storage facility with services that include weekly battery tending, multi-point safety inspections, and a spring wash and wipe-down. Contact our team to learn more about storage availability, pricing, and what's included before the next riding season.