If you only ride during the summer months, or if you won't be using your machine for several months, here are a few tips for winterizing your motorcycle, quad or SSV.
Mould, rust, discharged batteries, clogged mechanics and oxidized fuel tanks are just some of the damage caused by improper storage of your motorcycle.
Immobilized for several months, your machine needs to be properly winterized to avoid any nasty surprises.
1) PROTECTION :
First and foremost, choose a dry, well-ventilated storage area.
But first of all, you'll need to cover your machine with a protective cover for quads and SSVs or a protective cover for motorcycles.
Please note that there are several sizes for each type of vehicle! You'll need to measure the dimensions of your vehicle before ordering.
Always plan for something a little wider, so that the whole thing can breathe properly.
For maximum comfort and the ability to partially open your tarpaulin while winterizing your vehicle, some brands offer tarpaulins that open sideways.
This is the case with the MOOSE RACING SSV tarpaulin, available in 2-seater and 4-seater models!
2) THE ENGINE :
On the mechanical side, opt for a complete oil change with replacement of the oil filter.
Drain the cooling system too, to prevent corrosion, especially in the radiators. You'll find coolants here.
We offer a full range of tools to help you change your vehicle's oil.
When it comes to fuel tanks, there are two opposing methods :
Those who fill the tank and use a fuel stabilizer upstream to prevent moisture build-up in the tank. We offer two such products: the Ipone stabilizer and the Motorex stabilizer:
Those that empty the tank completely, including the carburettor bowl, to avoid residue and other clogged jets.
With the first option, remember to run your engine so that the stabilizeralso plays its part in the entire feed.
3) THE TRANSMISSION:
This will be followed by a cleaning then a greasing of the kit chaine
4 ) THE BATTERY:
Dismantle the battery(also store it in a dry, well-ventilated place, then connect it to the mains via a chargerto maintain the charge.
Don't forget to check your battery levels and reset your tire pressure if you haven't already done so.
There are 2 types of charger for 2 types of battery: ( Some chargers do both )
Charger for standard (acid)batteries :
THE BS AUTOMATIC BATTERY CHARGER 6V/12V - 1000MA is an excellent charger at less than 50€.
Like, for example, the OPTIMATE LITHIUM BATTERY CHARGER
- mixed charger: for lithium and acid batteries:
OXFORD OXIMISER 900 BATTERY CHARGER
Discover the new range of highly versatile NOCO GENIUS products, such as the NOCO GB70 LITHIUM 12V 2000A BATTERY BOOSTER
Power: 2000 A
Compact size
Easy to use
Safety: anti-spark and anti-polarity reversal technology
12V cigarette-lighter power supply (portable compressor, etc.) and 5V USB (smartphone, tablet, etc.)
Integrated 400 Lumen LED lamp with 7 operating modes
Allows up to 40 starts per charge
For motorcycles, cars, jets, boats, etc. Starts petrol engines up to 8 liters and diesel engines up to 6 liters
5) GOOD CLEANING BEFORE WINTERING:
A good cleaning in the rules of the art by spraying a silicone spray over the entire surface of the vehicle: fairings, chassis, engine, followed by wiping with a microfiber cloth.
We offer many products MOTOREX, IPONE, MUCOFF ... dedicated to maintenance!
6) STORAGE :
All that's left is to put your motorcycle on the center stand (your suspensions will be all the better for it) or, if it's not equipped with one, on workshop stands then !
7) PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE AGAINST THEFT
Don't forget to secure your motorcycle or quad with a anti-theft device we can't be too careful.
Don't hesitate to secure it to the ground with an anchoring ring like the VECTOR model.
We offer a wide choice of anti-theft devices:
8) CHECKING AFTER WINTER STORAGE :
After the storage period, when restarting:
Refill coolant if necessary
Check battery charge
Check tire pressure
Clean brake discs with a suitableproduct.
Check your oil levels and brake fluid
A small checklist left on the machine under the tarpaulin can be very useful and prevent oversights.
A thorough wash and the usual checks will get you back on the road in the best possible condition.
