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Winterizing Your Bike

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Winterization

Here in Missouri where we can't ride from mid-November til about April 1, I put Sta-Bil in the gas tank, run the engine to get the stuff in the carbs (after changing the oil and filter) and then pull the plugs and spray cylinder fogging oil (Kawasaki brand) in each hole, put new plugs in, pull the air filter element, spray the cylinder stuff in each carb so the slides don't dry up or bind, grease the rear suspension (I put zerks on my '88), pull the rear wheel off and grease the splines, change the fuel filter while the rear tire is off, inspect the brake pads and replace if necessary, hook up the Battery Tender and check the water in the battery every few weeks while I PMS (parked motorcycle syndrome) clean the bottom of the engine with brake parts cleaner (and other areas inaccesible during riding season) wax and clean everything, this year.

I'll probably put a clutch in it (slips a little in 5th when passing) pull the front wheel off and check the wheel bearings (also on the rear, if I didn't point that out) grease the speedo shaft, every other year I change the fork oil, I changed the dessicant in the air compressor 3 years ago when I first got the bike but it did'nt look like it needed it (manual says the color changes to pink if it has alot of moisture in it) at that time but I'll probably do it again next year as I put alot more miles on than the original owner did. I think that's the main things. I also think it depends on where you store the bike. Mine is in a converted greenhouse that stays pretty warm (never below 32). If you store outside you may want to do some other items.

Dan Moore

Winterization #2

Drain the fuel tank, fuel lines ans carburetors, unmount the tank, pour one cup of 10W30 oil, shake to coat the tank. Remove all excess of oil. Re-install.
Remove spark plugs, pour one tablespoon of 10W30 in each cylinder, re-install plugs, crank the engine 2 or 3 times to coat cylinders
Tie up a plastic bag around exhaust pipes outlets
Grease all cables
Use the central stand to insulate tires from the ground, slightly decrease tires pressure
If air is very humid or salty (seaside) grease all exposed metal surfaces (no grease on rubber or plastic parts)
Remove battery, charge it, store it in a dry place (35 to 90ТА F), re-charge every month

Philippe Mollard

Last update: 03:12 PM Sunday, September 26, 2004

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