As the weather turns colder and the morning frost turns into snow, the days for riding your motorcycle are getting fewer. With a little bit of sadness, you decide it’s time to put away the bike for the winter.

If this is the first time you’re storing your motorcycle for the winter, you should know that you cannot simply let it sit as is for months at a time. Here are three basic steps you should take to ensure your bike works properly again come spring:

1. Add a fuel stabilizer

Gas rots if left to sit for months at a time so it’s important that you add a preservative to the fuel. After you’ve added the mix, run the engine for 10 minutes or so to make sure the preservative is thoroughly mixed with the gas for proper storage.

2. Disconnect the battery

To save the life of your battery, it’s best to disconnect it from the bike during those long winter months where the bike (and therefore the battery) will not be in use.

3. Drain the carburetors

Locate the drain screws and drain any gas from the carburetors if storing for four months or longer. This is not necessary if you have a fuel-injected bike.

Additional Steps

If you want to go the extra mile to get your bike ready for spring, you may also want to:

  • Change the oil
  • Change fluids
  • Oil the spark plugs
  • Wash and wax the bike
  • Keep insurance on the bike even when it’s not in use

Lastly, if you’ve been injured in a Maryland motorcycle accident, now is a good time to talk to an experienced attorney regarding your options for compensation. Call the Maryland motorcycle accident lawyers of Nickelsporn & Lundin at 800-875-9700 for a free consultation.

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