Owning a motorcycle is about more than getting from one place to another. Whether you ride a classic cruiser, a sport bike, a touring motorcycle, or a bike you've carefully customized, your motorcycle represents an investment, a passion, and countless hours spent on the road.
When your motorcycle isn't being ridden, proper storage can play an important role in keeping it in good condition. Leaving a motorcycle exposed to changing weather, moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations can lead to problems such as battery drain, tire damage, rust, and mechanical issues.
The good news is that with the right preparation and a quality storage space, you can help protect your motorcycle throughout the year and have it ready for your next ride.
Here are 12 important tips for storing your motorcycle year round.
1. Give Your Motorcycle a Thorough Wash
Before putting your motorcycle into storage, give it a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, road grime, bugs, and other debris.
Pay close attention to areas where dirt and moisture can collect, including around the wheels, chain, engine, and undercarriage. Road salt can be particularly damaging, so make sure your motorcycle is completely clean if you've been riding during the winter months.
Allow the motorcycle to dry completely before covering it or placing it into storage.
2. Protect the Paint and Metal Surfaces
Once your motorcycle is clean and dry, consider applying a quality wax or protective product to painted surfaces.
This creates an additional barrier against dust and moisture while helping maintain the appearance of your motorcycle.
For exposed metal components, a suitable corrosion protectant can also help reduce the risk of rust, particularly if the motorcycle will be stored for an extended period.
3. Change the Engine Oil
If you're planning to store your motorcycle for several months, changing the engine oil and filter before storage can help protect the engine.
Used oil can contain contaminants that may sit inside the engine during long periods of inactivity. Fresh oil helps provide a cleaner environment for the engine while your motorcycle is off the road.
Check your motorcycle manufacturer's recommendations for any additional maintenance that should be completed before extended storage.
4. Fill the Fuel Tank and Add a Fuel Stabilizer
If your motorcycle will be sitting for an extended period, adding fuel stabilizer can help prevent fuel from degrading and causing problems when you're ready to ride again.
Filling the fuel tank can also reduce the amount of air and moisture inside the tank, helping minimize the risk of condensation and corrosion.
After adding the stabilizer, run the engine for several minutes to allow the treated fuel to circulate through the fuel system.
5. Take Care of the Battery
Motorcycle batteries can lose their charge relatively quickly when a bike sits unused.
Depending on your motorcycle and storage period, disconnecting the battery may help prevent unnecessary drain. For longer storage periods, a battery maintainer can help keep the battery charged and ready for the next riding season.
If you're storing your motorcycle during colder months, keeping the battery in an appropriate environment can also help protect it from extreme temperatures.
6. Check and Protect the Tires
Tires can slowly lose air pressure while a motorcycle is sitting.
Before storage, check the tire pressure and inflate the tires according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
For longer storage periods, consider using a motorcycle stand to reduce prolonged pressure on the same area of the tires. If a stand isn't available, periodically checking the tire pressure can help ensure the tires remain properly inflated.
Inspect the tires for cracks, damage, or signs of wear before putting your motorcycle away.
7. Use a Breathable Motorcycle Cover
A quality motorcycle cover helps protect your bike from dust, dirt, and accidental scratches while it is stored.
Choose a cover designed specifically for motorcycles and made from a breathable material that allows moisture to escape.
Avoid using plastic or other non-breathable coverings that can trap condensation against the motorcycle and potentially contribute to rust or corrosion.
Even when your motorcycle is stored indoors, a proper cover provides an extra layer of protection.
8. Choose a Dry, Climate-Controlled Storage Space
Temperature changes and humidity can be particularly hard on motorcycles that remain stored for long periods.
A climate-controlled storage space helps maintain a more stable environment, reducing exposure to extreme temperature changes and excess moisture.
This can help protect metal components, electronics, seats, rubber seals, and other parts of your motorcycle from moisture-related damage.
For riders storing their motorcycles year round, climate control can provide added peace of mind.
9. Keep Your Motorcycle in a Secure Facility
Your motorcycle deserves protection from more than just the weather.
When choosing a storage facility, look for security features such as gated access, surveillance cameras, controlled entry, and well-lit areas.
A professionally managed storage facility can provide an added layer of protection compared with leaving your motorcycle outside or in an unsecured location.
Knowing your motorcycle is stored in a secure space allows you to spend less time worrying about it and more time looking forward to your next ride.
10. Consider Indoor or Covered Motorcycle Storage
Outdoor exposure can take a toll on a motorcycle over time.
Sunlight, rain, snow, hail, and other weather conditions can affect paint, seats, chrome, rubber components, and other exterior parts.
Indoor or covered motorcycle storage helps shield your bike from the elements and can be especially valuable when storing it through the winter or during extended periods when you won't be riding.
Keeping your motorcycle protected from the weather can also reduce the amount of cleaning and maintenance required when it's time to get back on the road.
11. Protect Your Motorcycle from Moisture and Pests
Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, while insects and rodents may be attracted to a motorcycle that remains undisturbed for long periods.
A clean, dry storage environment can help reduce these risks.
Consider using moisture absorbers in appropriate areas around the motorcycle to help control humidity. You should also make sure the motorcycle is clean before storage and avoid leaving food or other materials nearby that could attract pests.
A well-maintained storage facility can provide an additional layer of protection by keeping your motorcycle in a clean and controlled environment.
12. Check on Your Motorcycle Periodically
Even when your motorcycle has been properly prepared for storage, it's a good idea to check on it from time to time.
Inspect the tires, battery, cover, and surrounding area for any signs of moisture, leaks, pests, or other issues.
If your storage facility provides convenient access, periodic visits can make it easier to identify and address potential problems before they become more serious.
Taking a few minutes to check on your motorcycle throughout the year can help ensure it stays ready for your next ride.
Give Your Motorcycle the Protection It Deserves
A motorcycle is more than a vehicle. It's a passion, an investment, and a way to enjoy the open road.
Taking the time to prepare your motorcycle properly before storage can help protect its appearance, performance, and overall condition throughout the year.
Choosing the right storage space is just as important. A clean, secure facility with climate-controlled units, covered parking options, and modern security features can provide protection from the elements while giving you peace of mind when your motorcycle isn't being ridden.
At Mini Mall Storage, we offer a range of vehicle storage options designed to help protect your motorcycle and other vehicles. Whether you're storing your bike during the winter, between riding trips, or throughout the year, our secure facilities offer options such as climate-controlled storage, covered parking, and enhanced security features.
If you're looking for a simple and secure storage solution for your motorcycle, explore our vehicle storage options here: Vehicle Storage | Mini Mall Storage.
