De-winterizing a Bike | GTAMotorcycle.com

De-winterizing a Bike

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russkii

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Yes, thats right, any tips on De-winterizing a bike ? anything should be done, or just start and go ?

im planing to "De-winterize" my bike tomorrow (aka. first start after the winter), cant wait anymore. Im not planing to ride for another 2-3 weeks perhaps (maybe on wed around my block :) ), but i want to start it, so i can install hids, rim tape and what not.

So is it okay if ill "de-winterize" it, and just keep it in my garage for another 2-3 weeks ? or should i still remove the battery and what not ?

and any tips, for preparing the bike for spring ?

Appreciate it
 
I like to do a oil change come spring, regardless if it's needed or not. Some people say its overkill though
 
i dont see why people have to treat a bike like a baby.... do maintenance as scheduled in service book and ride the damn thing. its not going to cry!
 
If you didn't change oil before winter, do it now. Used oil sitting still for that many months isn't worth keeping in an engine.
 
russkii said:
Yes, thats right, any tips on De-winterizing a bike ? anything should be done, or just start and go ?

im planing to "De-winterize" my bike tomorrow (aka. first start after the winter), cant wait anymore. Im not planing to ride for another 2-3 weeks perhaps (maybe on wed around my block :) ), but i want to start it, so i can install hids, rim tape and what not.

So is it okay if ill "de-winterize" it, and just keep it in my garage for another 2-3 weeks ? or should i still remove the battery and what not ?

and any tips, for preparing the bike for spring ?

Appreciate it
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You need to trailer it down south so it can thaw out then you can start it ... if you start it before then ? You'll blow it up, the blinker fluid has migrated thru your cables into your cylinders. :p
 
One BIG tip - i've seen issues with bikes WAY too much.

Start her up - and take her for a GOOD / LONG ride. Get that motor warm and old fuel flowing through carbs/injectors.

Don't just start up the bike - or start / stop - it might foul plugs etc...you'll have issues then.

But yes cheap PSI in your tires like the ppl above have mentioned.
 
chiller said:
You need to trailer it down south so it can thaw out then you can start it ... if you start it before then ? You'll blow it up, the blinker fluid has migrated thru your cables into your cylinders. :p
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Great advise!!..NOT! the op is curious and asking a fair question....btw
 
russkii said:
Yes, thats right, any tips on De-winterizing a bike ? anything should be done, or just start and go ?

im planing to "De-winterize" my bike tomorrow (aka. first start after the winter), cant wait anymore. Im not planing to ride for another 2-3 weeks perhaps (maybe on wed around my block :) ), but i want to start it, so i can install hids, rim tape and what not.

So is it okay if ill "de-winterize" it, and just keep it in my garage for another 2-3 weeks ? or should i still remove the battery and what not ?

and any tips, for preparing the bike for spring ?

Appreciate it
Click to expand...


don't touch the bike until you're going to ride into another area code.
 
Here is my de-winterizing process...

Step 1 : Put key in ignition

Step 2: Turn bike on

Step 3: Ride bike till next winter.

:)


Yeah, I never winterize my bikes, it's completely unnecessary.
 
He's asking a legit question. Tire pressure, leaks, rodents, light bulbs and lube necessary items.
+1 on taking it on a long solid ride your first go.
 
The Road Warrior said:
Here is my de-winterizing process...

Step 1 : Put key in ignition

Step 2: Turn bike on

Step 3: Ride bike till next winter.

:)


Yeah, I never winterize my bikes, it's completely unnecessary.
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Ive had bikes in storage in Aus for over 6 months at a time while traveling and when I get back I just put my battery back in and start it up and ride. Old fuel, old oil etc never had an issue. Mind you it never got below 12'C in the middle of winter at night time (20-25' daytime) so Im not totally up on the effects of -20' craziness.
 
DownUnder said:
Ive had bikes in storage in Aus for over 6 months at a time while traveling and when I get back I just put my battery back in and start it up and ride. Old fuel, old oil etc never had an issue. Mind you it never got below 12'C in the middle of winter at night time (20-25' daytime) so Im not totally up on the effects of -20' craziness.
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I never removed the battery from any of my bikes over the last decade of riding, during winter storage and every single bike would start at the beginning of new season without any problems. :)
 
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The Road Warrior said:
I never removed the battery from any of my bikes over the last decade of riding, during winter storage and every single bike would start at the beginning of new season without any problems. :)
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I feel sorry for your bikes :(
 
jay-d said:
I feel sorry for your bikes :(
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Why? Thats what i do as well. Done that for two seasons with no problem. Just started her up yesterday and she started fine (third season), took a few cranks but thats just normal.
 
my rim tape says not to install it in temp under 15 degrees... might wanna check yours...
 
The Road Warrior said:
Here is my de-winterizing process...

Step 1 : Put key in ignition

Step 2: Turn bike on

Step 3: Ride bike till next winter.

:)


Yeah, I never winterize my bikes, it's completely unnecessary.
Click to expand...

Thats basically mine, I just unplug the batter tender first. I have never winterized, its always ready to go. I have never had any issues with this method, though it normally only sits from December to March, I ride as long as I can and still get it out for short little rides weather depending during the winter months.
 
mmmnaked said:
ohnoes not a slightly less charged battery!!!!!! Noooooooooooo
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Well, you know, Energizer bunny might not be as happy!! If your battery is good, putting it on a tender sounds like a waste. I had my battery disconnected, but still sitting in a bike. Attached battery charger to it three times over the course of winter (after very cold days) and each time charge was 90%+. This battery is 1.5 years old.

Like others already said, make sure rodents didn't build a nest in your bike and eaten the wires, check tire pressure, check liquid levels (oil/coolant/front and rear brakes), check for leaks under the bike, then go for a long ride.
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