Storing Your Harley-Davidson® for Winter
•Oil Change - Besides exhaust contaminates, motor oil also holds a certain level of condensation. This typically isn't a problem when the motorcycle is being used on a regular basis, but when put in storage for three months or more, this condensation can cause rust and pitting on internal engine parts, reducing their longevity and performance. Changing the oil and filter on your Harley- Davidson® motorcycle just prior to winter storage will help minimize the amount of condensation in the crank case and on the engine parts during the winter.
•Fuel Stabilizer - Fuel, especially fuel with alcohol blends, has a wonderful way of separating and gumming up if left to sit for long periods of time. This could lead to clogged injectors or stuck needles or floats in the carburetor. Adding a fuel stabilizer to your tank and running the bike for a short time (to make sure this mixture gets into the fuel lines and fuel delivery system) will help ensure trouble free performance when you're ready to fire it up again. Don't forget to top off your tank when you add the fuel stabilizer. A full tank will help prevent condensation from forming in the tank.
•Battery - Riders all seem to handle keeping their motorcycle battery charged differently. The important thing to remember is that the battery will need to be kept charged during the winter storage periods. As temperatures drop, the more quickly the battery will discharge. The tender plugs into the wall and will cycle on and off as needed to keep the battery charged.
•Inflate The Tires - Unless you are able to store your motorcycle on a motorcycle stand for the winter, it is important to make sure your motorcycle tires are fully inflated. Your Harley® will be resting in one position for a long period of time and your tires will be bearing the brunt of that load. The tires could 'deform' to one degree or another as a result, so it is important that the tire pressure is set to manufacturers specs for your bike. If you can, move your Harley® from time to time, introducing a new section of tire to rest the weight on.
•Clean The Bike - If you ride every day then you understand just how quickly your motorcycle can get dirty. Even if you ride moderately, dirt and dust never seem to have a problem ruining hours of careful cleaning. Much of this dirt and grime can lead to rust and oxidation, and letting this sit on your bike for a long period of time is can really take the luster out of your investment. Don't forget to polish your chrome, polish and protect your aluminum surfaces, clean your windshield and clean and treat your leather seat and saddlebags.
•Cover The Bike - Now that you have cleaned and prepped your Harley-Davidson® for winter storage, covering the motorcycle with a breathable motorcycle cover will protect the bike from accumulating dust during storage. If you need to store your motorcycle outdoors for the winter, a motorcycle cover will obviously protect your bike from snow and rain, but you should consider putting it in storage.
