6 TIPS FOR WINTER MOTORCYCLE CARE

RIDE IN CONFIDENCE!

As winter arrives, motorcycle enthusiasts often face the question: how do I keep my bike in top condition when it’s not in regular use? Whether your bike is parked for the season or you’re still riding on crisp, clear days, these expert tips will help you prevent damage, ensure safety, and save money on repairs. Let’s make sure your bike stays as ready for the road as you are!
 

1. PROTECT YOUR FUEL SYSTEM

Fuel preservation is one of the most critical steps in motorcycle maintenance during extended storage. Modern fuels, especially those with ethanol, can degrade over time, leading to costly damage to your fuel system.

Here’s what to do:

• Fill your tank completely: A full tank prevents air pockets where condensation can form, reducing the risk of water contamination.

• Use a fuel additive: Additives such as Harley-Davidson’s Ethanol Guard are specifically designed to stabilise fuel and prevent the ethanol from turning into a gel-like substance that clogs fuel injectors or carburettors.

After adding the fuel treatment, start your motorcycle and let it idle until fully warmed up. This ensures the additive circulates through the system, protecting even the smallest components. Skipping this step could result in issues like a rough idle, difficulty starting, or even fuel overflow in carbureted bikes due to blockages in the float bowl.

Proactive care now can save you significant frustration and expense come spring when you’re ready to ride!
 

2. PREVENT TYRE DAMAGE

Tyres often go unnoticed during storage, but improper care can lead to cracks, flat spots, or uneven wear. Tyres left underinflated can develop permanent deformities where the weight of the bike causes bulging, leaving you with reduced performance and safety.

To prevent this:

• Check and inflate your tyres: Refer to your owner’s manual or contact a trusted professional at LIND to find the correct tyre pressure for your model.

• Use a quality tyre inflator: Ensuring your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI is a quick and effective way to avoid costly replacements.

If you’re unsure about tyre care or need assistance, your local LIND store is always here to help. Pop in for a free tyre pressure check and expert advice.
 

3. KEEP YOUR BIKE CLEAN

Cleaning your motorcycle might just seem cosmetic, but it’s also a practical maintenance step! Dirt, grit, and salt from the road can cause corrosion and hide damage that needs attention.

Pay particular attention to:

• Brake components: Salt and grime can coat your discs and calipers, reducing braking efficiency and causing long-term damage if left unaddressed.

• General cleanliness: Use a hose, a bucket of water, and specialist cleaning products from brands like Harley-Davidson or Muc-Off to gently but effectively clean your bike.

Taking the time to clean your bike thoroughly not only keeps it looking awesome but also ensures critical safety components like brakes perform as they should. A well-maintained motorcycle is a safer motorcycle!
 

4. STAY WARM WHILE RIDING

Cold weather presents unique challenges for us to ride in. Beyond the obvious discomfort, extreme cold can numb your hands and feet, slowing your reactions and potentially compromising control of your bike.

To stay warm and ride safely:

• Invest in thermal layers: High-quality base layers can make a world of difference.

• Choose winter-specific riding gear: Look for windproof and insulated options that balance warmth with mobility.

We stock a wide range of purpose-built winter gear to keep you comfortable and in control, whether you’re riding through chilly mornings or braving icy evenings. Explore our ridewear collection online or in-store.
 

5. AVOID CONDENSATION IN YOUR ENGINE

One common winter mistake is starting your bike occasionally just to “keep it running.” While this seems like good practice, it can actually cause more harm than good.

Why? Starting your bike warms it up briefly, but when it’s returned to a cold storage space, the rapid cooling creates condensation inside the engine. Over time, this moisture can mix with oil and lead to degraded performance, especially when you’re ready to ride in the spring!

Instead, store your bike properly and leave it until the weather warms up. If you’ve followed the other steps on this list, your motorcycle will be ready when you are. 

6. CARE FOR YOUR BATTERY

Winter is tough on motorcycle batteries. Colder temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside, making it harder for the battery to hold a charge.

To avoid frustration:

• Use a portable battery pack: A compact unit like the Harley-Davidson HOG Booster Portable Battery Pack 1000A is a fantastic backup. Small enough to fit in your saddlebag, this powerful device ensures you can jump-start your bike in seconds, even after months of storage.

• Keep it charged: If possible, use a trickle charger to maintain your battery over the winter.

A little battery care goes a long way toward ensuring your bike fires up effortlessly when it’s time to hit the road again.
 

MORE TIPS & TRICKS

Looking for more motorcycle care advice? Check out our YouTube playlist featuring expert tips, tricks, and how-tos to keep your bike in the best possible condition. From advanced maintenance guides to ride preparation tips, these videos offer detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for every rider.

Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of motorcycles, this playlist is packed with practical insights that will help you extend the life of your bike and enhance your riding experience. Watch now and discover something new today!