As the days get shorter and the nights get longer; as the leaves turn to orange and you dust off your coats, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your bike for winter storage. Of course there may be a few more months of good riding left, but these days, the weather is unpredictable. It’s a tough call to make when to tuck her away, but when you’re ready, here is a checklist for prepping your bike for storage.

• Wash your bike
• Wash thoroughly, making sure to dry the bike very well after. Don’t forget to lube the chain and wax any chrome afterwards as well.
• Remove and clean the spark plugs, change them out if necessary
• Change the oil – This helps to ensure your bike is ride ready come spring.
• Fill the gas tank – This helps prevent rust from forming inside the tank
• Remove the battery and connect it to a charger – This maintains the battery life through long periods of inactivity
• Make sure to store the battery in a clean and dry place away from any heat sources or chemicals
• Cover the exhaust pipes – This prevents moisture from collecting inside, as well as keeping out any curious critters
• Find a dry storage location and cover up the bike

And lastly,

Sigh with longing for the spring when you can ride again!