Even if the harsh winter weather in Pennsylvania does not allow you to use your motorcycle, you must still take steps to safely prepare and store it, so you are able to enjoy it when the weather gets warmer. There may be a material difference in how your bike performs based on the steps that you have taken to get it ready for the winter months. Here is what you need to do to prepare your motorcycle for potential operation in the winter and safe storage.
Although you are not using your motorcycle in the winter, it can still sustain damage if it is not properly prepared and stored. Harsh winter conditions can mean that corrosion and rust can damage your bike. There may also be damage to mechanical systems, such as the battery. You may be at a higher risk of a motorcycle accident when you do use your motorcycle, whether it is in the winter or the spring months.
Inspect Your Bike Before Storage
Before you store your bike for the winter, you should perform a close visual inspection of the motorcycle, checking for any problem areas. The first step before storage is to thoroughly wash your bike, removing any grime or harmful substances that can cause damage if they are left on the motorcycle over time.
Care for Your Engine and Fuel System
The winter conditions and a long period of disuse can harm the engine and fuel system. At the onset of winter, it is vital that you do the following:
- Add fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation.
- Change oil and filters if necessary.
- Inspect and maintain the battery.
Check the Tires and Brakes
Although every part of a motorcycle is critical to its safe operation, the tires and brakes are perhaps the most important parts. You should always inspect the tires, paying extra close attention to the treads. Further, you should inspect the brake pads for any wear and ensure that your bike has enough brake fluid. The tires should be properly inflated, and you should check the tire pressure. Finally, if you are storing the motorcycle, you should avoid direct tire contact with the ground for a prolonged period of time.
Storing Your Bike for the Winter
If possible, you should store your motorcycle indoors, so it is not subjected to harsh winter conditions. Further, you should place a cover around your motorcycle and on the tires to protect it from any wear and tear, even when you are storing it indoors. You should store your bike elevated from the ground, so the tires do not come into direct contact with it. If possible, you should disconnect the battery to avoid damage to it during the winter.
When you take your bike out of storage, it is crucial that you perform a close visual inspection of all key parts. It is preferable that you change the key fluids that your motorcycle relies on, including the oil and brake fluid. If the battery has been disconnected, you should ensure that it is reconnected and fully charged before you use the motorcycle.
You should not go directly onto the road when you are first using your motorcycle. Rather, you should start it slowly in a safe place, listening to how the engine is operating and inspecting the key parts before you head out on your bike.
Not only can properly storing your bike and preparing it for the winter ensure its safe operation, but you can also avoid any allegations made by the insurance company that you were partially to blame for a motorcycle accident. The insurance company may be paying close attention to how your bike was maintained if you are claiming injuries from an accident.
Contact a Norristown Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Bikers Have Rights to Get the Compensation You Deserve
A Norristown motorcycle accident Lawyer at Bikers Have Rights is here to fight for your legal rights if you have been injured in a crash. To schedule a free consultation, contact us online or call today at 877-333-0300. Located in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.