Autumn Preparations

Not all motorcycle riders ride all year-round, but for those of you who do—hats off! Whether you're preparing for some chilly autumn rides or storing your bike for the winter, it’s essential to give your motorcycle the care it needs. You may wonder why you should prep your bike before storing it, but this is one of the most important maintenance processes! Follow these key steps to help your bike stay in mint condition, so you can avoid any nasty surprises come springtime!

Cleaning

The first and most important step is to thoroughly clean your motorcycle. Dirt and grime, even in small amounts can cause damage over time. Take your time when cleaning, but avoid blasting the bike with high-pressure water that could strip all lubricants. We would recommend using a motorcycle-friendly pressure washer like Muc-Off’s, which comes with a specialized nozzle to avoid harming the bike. Start by gently hosing off the bike, then clean it by hand using a fresh sponge and a high-quality motorcycle washing solution. Nuver washing liquid works well for this purpose.

If you plan to continue riding through the winter, then hose your bike off after each ride to remove salt and any other dirt residue.

Protecting

Once your bike is sparkling clean, it’s time to protect it from the elements. Applying a protective wax, such as Nuver Protectant Wax, will form a barrier against dirt and rust. This simple step can make a big difference in your bike’s maintenance. Reapply the wax after each wash, especially during colder months to make sure you have maximum protection.

Maintenance 

Proper maintenance during storage is super important. One of the most important things to focus on is your battery. Using a battery charger suited to your bike’s battery type will keep it in the best condition. Many new chargers feature a maintenance mode that keeps the battery charged without overloading it. Make sure you have the right charger as lithium and lead-acid batteries require different chargers. We would suggest choosing carefully or to opt for a versatile charger that works for all!

Pro Tip: Install a plug that allows you to easily connect your charger without removing the battery from the bike.

In addition to the battery, it's essential to prevent water from contaminating your fuel and damaging other parts. We recommend using the right, high-quality fuel, (trust us and spend the extra buck) and adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank. This will help keep your fuel fresh and prevent it from degrading when stored for a long period of time. Don’t forget to close the fuel tap to avoid any leaks.

Still working on the bike and setting the tank aside? Consider checking our Tank cure kit to make it last a lifetime!

Lubricate moving parts

Many parts of your motorcycle are constantly moving, making them more prone to rust. Be sure to lubricate all moving parts to prevent water and salt from messing up your bike. There are various types of lubricant available, so make sure to use the appropriate one for the right part. A standard lube will work well for most parts, but be sure to use a high-quality chain lube, like Nuver chain lube.

Additives

Using the right additives can really help protect your bike and keep it in good shape, whether you’re storing it or riding through the winter months. Here’s a quick rundown of the most useful ones:

• Fuel Stabilizers: These are a must if your bike’s sitting idle for a while. They keep your fuel from going stale and prevent moisture from causing engine issues. Just add it to a full tank, run the bike for a few minutes, and you’re good to go.
• Oil Additives: Cold weather can mess with your oil’s thickness, so using an oil additive helps keep things running smoothly. It also adds extra protection against wear and tear when your bike’s not being used.
• Fuel System Cleaners: Even with stabilizers, it's good to throw in a fuel system cleaner occasionally. It cleans out carbon buildup and keeps your engine running smoothly when you’re ready to ride again.
• Coolant Additives: If you’ve got a liquid-cooled engine, make sure you’ve got the right coolant mix. Coolant additives help prevent freezing and corrosion, which is key if your bike’s in storage during the winter.

And there you have it! Your guide to keeping your motorcycle happy and healthy through the winter. With a little TLC and the right maintenance, your bike will be in mint condition when the warmer weather rolls around. Just remember, a well-prepped bike is a happy bike, and come spring, you’ll be back on the road in no time!

Now, go treat your motorcycle to that fuel stabilizer—it’s basically a spa day for your engine. After all, even your bike deserves a little pampering while it’s hibernating!