To winterise a motorbike properly, it's essential to choose the right moment to put it on pause. In Luxembourg, temperatures start to fall as early as October, making it an ideal month to start wintering.
A few precautions will protect your two-wheeler from the elements and ensure that it's back in good condition in the spring. Don't neglect regular maintenance of your motorbike, even when it's not in use, to avoid unpleasant surprises when you take it back.
"Tip from a pro: All throughout the winter, regular start up your motorbike (every 10 days for example) for 10 to 15 minutes to keep the fuel circulating and grease the engine. At the same time, you can perhaps change the motorbike’s position, diminishing any risk of tire deformation."
To winterise a motorbike properly, it's essential to choose the right moment to put it on pause. In Luxembourg, temperatures start to fall as early as October, making it an ideal month to start wintering.
A few precautions will protect your two-wheeler from the elements and ensure that it's back in good condition in the spring. Don't neglect regular maintenance of your motorbike, even when it's not in use, to avoid unpleasant surprises when you return.
A thorough cleaning
Carry out a thorough wash to remove salt and dust residues. There is nothing better than a good cleaning before winterising, allowing to remove any remaining grime which could corrode the varnish and/or paint and to visually check the whole motorbike (damaged indicator lights, loose screw, etc). After cleaning, it might be a good idea to apply some appropriate maintenance products (polish, rustproof treatment, silicone) as the chromes, paints and plastics will only benefit from these sustainable effects.
Full or empty tank?
Fill up your fuel tank completely and mix with a fuel stabiliser which prevents damaging and damp accumulation in the tank. Run the bike so the gas and fuel stabiliser get to the carburetor and fuel injectors.
Cover your motorbike with a tarpaulin
Once your motorbike has been stored in a dry place away from wind and weather, you can finally cover it. The most inexpensive solution is to wrap an old “hole-free” sheet as it’s an airy fabric preventing damp accumulation which could result in part-corrosion.
Inflate to the max
In winter, tires tend to lose their pressure, so it’s recommended to slightly over-inflate and use the centre stand if your motorbike has one. With this advice, you’ll prevent premature deformation of tires.
The last details
Plug the exhaust pipe to prevent damp and rust. You just need to grease the already cleaned and dried chain. Don’t grease right after having washed it as the grease will hold in the water which will create damage.
Remove the battery and store in a dry, warm area. Batteries are very vulnerable when not used for a long period of time. To keep battery in good condition, it’s a good idea to have it fully charged during the winter using a charger, also called a “battery optimiser”.
By following these wintering tips, you can ensure that your motorbike gets through the winter in the best possible condition. As soon as the first fine days arrive, you'll be able to take your motorbike out of winter storage and get back on the road in complete safety.
This text was originally published in November 2018 and updated in October 2024.
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