Improper motorcycle storage in the off-season can lead to costly repairs, especially fuel system problems.
Want to ensure your ride is ready to go in the spring when temperatures rise and the snow melts? If so, it’s crucial to store your motorcycle in a way that avoids clogging filters, carburetors, fuel pumps, and injectors and helps keep tires protected in the winter.
By formulating a plan ahead of time, you won’t have to scramble to find space in your garage or shoehorn your bike alongside your car.
Is It Safe to Store a Motorcycle in a Garage?
Just like a car, storing your motorcycle in a garage space protects it from rain, wind, pests, and, of course, theft. However, it’s crucial for bike owners to account for factors like ventilation, humidity, and temperature when choosing the perfect space for your bike.
A cool, dry, and well-ventilated garage is an ideal space to store a motorcycle during the winter weather. If humidity is an issue, consider using a dehumidifier to maintain optimal conditions.
If your garage is already full because your car sits there, here are some tips for freeing up space in winter:
- Dollies and stands can help you pull and maneuver your bike around your car, position it effectively, and keep it off the ground.
- Vertical storage solutions like heavy-duty wall-mounted bike racks and ceiling hoists can help suspend lighter bikes when your car takes up most of the garage.
- Reconsider how you park your car in your garage and see if a different orientation can free up space.
Preparing Your Motorcycle for Garage Storage
Before putting your bike in a garage for the winter alongside your car, you should do some maintenance tasks if you don’t plan on riding it for several months. The first step is cleaning the vehicle.
- Thoroughly clean your motorcycle by removing dirt and debris to prevent corrosion and potential damage to the finish.
- Use a specialized cleaner to clean the entire bike, including the frame, wheels, and engine.
- Be sure to dry the bike completely to prevent rust.
- Check the engine oil. If it’s time for an oil change, replace it with fresh oil before storing your vehicle.
- Spray areas prone to corrosion with a preservation product.
- Consider changing old brake fluid to prevent the corrosion of internal brake components.
Battery Care and Charging
Here are some tips to follow when caring for your motorcycle’s battery during storage and keep it ready for riding in the spring:
- Remove the battery if the garage gets cold in the winter.
- Connect the battery to a trickle charger or battery tender to keep it charged.
- Ensure the storage location doesn’t get below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Check the cables, posts, and fasteners for any damage or corrosion.
- If needed, clean the terminals with a stiff brush or battery cleaner spray.
- Consider ventilating the garage or using a dehumidifier to control the environment and avoid condensation buildup.
Fuel System Considerations
When storing your motorcycle in a garage, there’s no need to drain all the fuel from your bike unless you’re planning to store it for longer than a year. However, you should:
- Add a fuel stabilizer if you plan to park your bike for an extended period. This helps prevent clogged fuel filters.
- Check the tank for any signs of rust or leaks before storing the bike.
Tire Preservation Techniques
Make sure your motorcycle tires stay in good shape by keeping them off the ground in winter, and follow these best practices:
- Elevate the tires with paddock stands or slightly over-inflate them. Tires can develop flat spots and lose their shape from winter weather.
- Move the bike at least once a month. Keeping it in the same position all winter can lead to flat spots.
- Check the air pressure and inflate your tires to the recommended PSI.
- Park the motorcycle in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight.
- Use motorcycle stands or lifts to take the weight off the tires.
Protecting Your Bike from Pests
Protecting bikes from both pests while they’re parked in a garage or shed is crucial. To do this:
- Cover your motorcycle with a breathable, waterproof cover to protect your bike from dirt, sunlight, and moisture that can cause corrosion.
- Cover the air intake and exhaust pipes at the other end with plastic bags or foil to prevent garage pests from building nests.
- Set up traps or bait to deter mice and rodents from making your motorcycle their home in the winter.
Garage Door Security Measures
To protect your car and motorcycle from theft and unauthorized access, it’s important to secure your garage door. If you’re concerned that your bike is an attractive prospect for thieves, use these protection measures:
- Install security cameras to deter criminals, record incidents, and monitor your garage door remotely.
- Purchase motion-activated alarms to detect movement and sound an alarm when someone is near your door.
- Upgrade access controls to include keypads, keycards, and biometric scanners to further secure the garage.
Maintain Your Bike During Storage
Take advantage of the storage period to carry out routine motorcycle maintenance and repairs. That way, your bike is ready for riding when it comes out of the garage. This way, your bike will be in optimal condition when it’s time to ride again.
- Check fluids and lubricants, such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels.
- Check for signs of rust or leaks.
- Start the motorcycle every couple of weeks and give it a proper warm-up.
Bringing Your Motorcycle Out of Garage Storage
As you prepare to bring your bike out of its garage space, use paddock stands to lift the bike and inspect the undercarriage to ensure it’s ready for riding. Things happen, and even if you’re careful, you still need to be sure each system is functional before heading out the door.
Give your motorcycle a proper wash using a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using pressure washers, as they can damage the bike’s paint and components.
Finally, empty the gas tank and refill it with fresh fuel. Change the oil if necessary, and make sure everything is in working order before hitting the road.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your bike ensures that your moments on the open road are both exhilarating and worry-free. As you prioritize your motorcycle’s long-term well-being, take a moment to reflect on your storage options.
If you find that you don’t have enough room in your garage to safely store your motorcycle (or you’d prefer a climate-controlled storage environment for your motorcycle), check out Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace that offers a breadth of indoor motorcycle storage options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store a motorcycle in an unheated garage?
Storing your motorcycle in an unheated garage is possible. Always cover it to guard against the elements and other matter. When storing alongside a car, ensure both are well-protected for when it’s time to take a ride.
How do I keep my motorcycle safe in my garage?
Keep your motorcycle safe in your garage by taking extra precautions, such as installing security cameras and motion-activated sirens near the door.
Is it better to store a motorcycle with a full or empty gas tank?
It is better to store a motorcycle with a full gas tank to avoid condensation and corrosion. To prevent damage, fill the gas tank about 90% full and add a fuel stabilizer before storing.
How to winterize a motorcycle?
In the winter months, make sure to fill it with gas and add a fuel stabilizer. Also, have it serviced, cleaned, oil changed, charged, and find indoor storage.
