How to Winterize a Motorcycle

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To get the best insights on how to winterize a motorcycle, we connected with Dr. Raymond Burns III, Director of Research and Development for Lucas Oil.

1. Freshen up the fluids. "Change the motorcycle oil before the bike sits in long-term storage for the winter," recommends Burns. "Also replace any other fluids and parts that might need changing before they sit in the system with dirt and contaminants all winter long: that includes clutch, air filter, brake pads, spark plugs, and coolant." As far as best practices are concerned, remember to drain all the engine oil before you circulate new oil. Do you store your bike without fuel? Consider using an upper cylinder lubricant with your last tank of gas. Then, drain any remaining fuel and leave the tank capped all winter.
2. Stabilize the fuel. Treating the fuel in the gas tank is an important step many owners forget. Safeguard ethanol is a great choice when storing your motorcycle for winter. Whether you ride a scooter or a motorcycle, don't forget this! "Fill the fuel tank to at least 90% capacity and add Lucas Fuel Stabilizer," notes Burns. "Once added, start the engine so the stabilizer can flow through the entire fuel system."
3. Set up a battery tender. "Hook up your bike’s battery to a trickle charger for the entire duration of the winter storage," notes Burns. This will help maintain the battery charge so it doesn't go dead while out of use.
4. Wash, dry and wax the surfaces. "Thoroughly wash and dry your motorcycle before it goes into storage, focusing on any chrome and paint surfaces," recommends Burns. "Finish the job with either Lucas Slick Mist Speed Wax or Lucas Slick Mist Ceramic Speed Wax." A coat of wax does it good during cold temperatures.
5. Don't forget to cover it! A quality motorcycle cover is worth it. "Invest in an affordable, more breathable cover," suggests Burns. "Plastic motorcycle covers are common, but NOT preferred. They tend to trap moisture, which will cause rust, corrosion and mold."
6. Store it properly. "The best place to store your bike is indoors, in a place that is well-ventilated and away from any fertilizer or chemicals that may be laying around," highlights Burns. "If you must store your bike outdoors, make sure to take a few precautions to minimize any potential damage: lift the bike off the ground, choose a sheltered location, and use a quality cover."

Tips for Riding Your Motorcycle Through Winter

If you're an all-winter rider, preparation is key to staying safe and keeping your bike in top condition. Start by using the right tires—winter or all-season tires will give you better traction in cold and wet conditions. Make sure to check your oil and fluids more often, as cold weather can affect their performance. Dress in layers and invest in heated gear to stay warm during longer rides. Lastly, always keep an eye on the weather and road conditions, and avoid riding during icy or snowy conditions whenever possible. Stay safe out there!