Prepare Your Motorcycle For A Long Break
There may be a number of reasons why your bike may be tucked away for an extended period of time, as sad as that may seem. Preparing your motorcycle for any extended periods of time of inactivity is important. While out of use there is a possibility of parts seizing up. Starting the bike up again after extended periods can also take its toll. There are a number of things that need to be done to your motorbike to ensure that when you next take it out for a ride, everything works as it should.
The Carburetor
It is vital to drain any fuel that is left in the carburetor before putting your motorbike away for an extended vacation. By doing this you effectively remove any water, particles, and contaminants from the carb. You also prevent any openings into, or out of the carburetor from becoming clogged, and blocked. This is the most recommended preventative action.
Fuel Injected Engine Protection
Motorbikes that are fuel injected do not allow you to drain the carburetor, however, there are other measures that can be taken to ensure that the fuel tank does not become contaminated, or filled with rust. Have some rust in a fuel tank will make its way to the injectors when you do swing the motor again. Water in fuel is what causes the corrosion. On fuel injected motorbikes it is best to fill the fuel tank to capacity, and add a fuel stabilizer to the mix. Do this by pouring the stabilizer in first. Adding the petrol afterward, in addition to the ride home, will give the two a good mixing.
Battery Power, And Other Areas To Consider
There are a vast number of parts on a motorbike that will be negatively affected during an extended period of inactivity, and they should all be given the due consideration, and attention required. The battery needs to maintain its charge, brake fluid and coolants should be changed, and the engine needs to be well-lubricated. Inflate your tires to a pressure above the recommended pressure, and store your bike on a stand or blocks. Lubricate all moving parts thoroughly. Give your bike a good clean, and put her away to rest, protected beneath a fabric cover that allows the air to circulate. The aim of the cover is to keep the dust off, and the moisture out.
Take care when storing your bike for any extended periods or you will pay the costs the next time you start her up.