Check there are no foreign substances or sidewall cracking on the tire tread.

The pressure

After being stored away, tires always loose some air so it’s very important you fill them again. Any sort of pressure defect could result in premature and irregular tire wear as well as unstable handling of the motorbike.

Wear

Check the tread depths (treadwear indicator).

Visual check

Take a good look at the battery to see if there are any leaks or decay and make sure the thimbles are well tightened.

Trial motorbike ride

If you feel the starter is running slowly and the motor has trouble starting, then you need to get it recharged.

After having done the above, if the same scenario occurs, you will have to get the battery replaced.

Advice

To limit damaging the battery during the winter months, you should:

• Remove the battery, charge it and store it away in a cool and dry area
• Use a battery optimiser which will keep your battery permanently charged during the winter

Before any checks, it’s essential to meticulously respect manufacturer instructions regarding the replacement of various motorbike fluids.

Cooling liquid

• Carefully check for any traces of leaks around the wires and flexible pipes of the cooling circuit
• Check the liquid level in the coolant recovery tank (it is recommended to contact the dealership if there be oil missing to ensure the compatibility of the liquids)

Motor oil

• Check the level using the gauge or window depending on the motorcycle and fill up with appropriate oil

Brake and clutch fluids

• Check the hydraulic system and make sure there are no leaks
• Verify the fluid level in the various tanks (front and rear brakes and clutch if hydraulic)

If the level is very low, it’s likely that:

• the brake pads are severely worn
• the hydraulic system has a leak

Everything should move smoothly with no “rubbing” sensation. If you feel it’s a bit loose around the brake control, it’s imperative to head to your dealership and have them bleed the circuit.

Fork and shock absorber

Visually check the seals of the fork and shock absorber, as well as ensure there are no scratches on the fork tubes

Transmission

• Visual check (no corrosion, binding of chains, drivebelt condition, absence of foreign objects)
• Clean and grease the transmission chain
• Check the tension using the manufacturer’s manual (they each have their own recommendations)

Something seems wrong? We recommend you call your dealership

Start with a visual check of your bike. Check for leaks, damage or signs of corrosion.

Then check the fluid levels. Check the oil and coolant levels. If the oil level is low, an oil change will be necessary.

It's also vital to check the tension of your motorbike's chain. A chain that is too tight or too loose can cause engine damage.

Next, it's important to check the operation of your brakes. Make sure that the brake controls are properly adjusted and that the brake pads are not worn.

Finally, check the condition of your battery. Make sure it's fully charged and that the cable connections are correct.

By following these steps, you'll be able to prepare your motorbike effectively for a restart after wintering.

Cleaning your motorbike after winter storage is a key step in keeping it in good condition. Start by removing accumulated dust and debris with a dry cloth.

• Use a mild motorbike cleaner to remove stubborn stains.
• Metal parts may need polishing to prevent rust.
• Be sure to dry the bike thoroughly to avoid moisture, which can cause rust.

You should also check the condition of the paintwork and varnish. If you notice any discolouration or chipping, consider repainting to protect the underlying metal.

Finally, don't forget to clean and grease the chain, an operation often forgotten but crucial to the smooth running of your motorbike.

Before setting off on your first trip after wintering, make sure you take certain precautions to guarantee your safety and that of your motorbike. Firstly, plan a short trip to test your bike's performance. Secondly, ride smoothly, especially for the first few kilometres, to allow your bike to gradually pick up its pace. Thirdly, watch out for any suspicious noises or unusual behaviour from your bike. If in doubt, don't hesitate to take a break and check key points such as the tyres, chain, brakes or engine. Finally, don't forget to check the oil and fuel levels regularly during your journey.