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A motorcycle is a great mode of transportation during warm and dry weather. It is not recommended to take a motorcycle out of rides in cold and wet weather. It is important to keep the motorcycle protected and in good condition during the off-season months. If you do not have room in the garage in your home to store your motorcycle, then renting a self-storage unit is a great solution to store motorcycles for the winter months.
Stop N Stor offers a variety of storage unit sizes that are great for motorcycle storage. Stop N Stor has drive-up access to storage units to allow you to easily move your motorcycle in and out of storage. We offer state-of-the-art security measures including 24 hour video surveillance, well-lit buildings and drive ways and personalized gate-access entry. These measures, plus having resident managers on site, will give a motorcycle owner peace of mind that their vehicle is protected while in storage at Stop N Stor.
How to Prepare a Motorcycle for Storage
Consult the owner’s manual for your type of motorcycle for specific storage tips. It is important to follow the instructions in the owner’s manual or consult with your storage facility’s manager before your store your motorcycle or any vehicle. Following mechanical and cleaning steps to prepare your motorcycle for storage will make sure that the “bike” is ready for the spring riding season in no time!
- The motorcycle’s registration, title and license plates need to be up-to-date.
- Visually inspect the motorcycle to check if anything needs to be repaired or replaced before putting it in storage.
- Place the motorcycle on a pallet or piece of wood above the ground when in storage. This prevents damage from moisture and dampness to the vehicle. It will also help to protect the tires on the motorcycle from deflating.
- Clean the motorcycle and then completely dry it before placing in storage. Spray WD-40 on every metal surface of the motorcycle to help prevent rusting.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions for adding fuel stabilizer to a full tank of gas to the motorcycle before placing in storage. Run the engine for at least 15 minutes to work the stabilizer through the engine.
- Change the motorcycle’s engine oil. This will remove the excess sludge and dirt in the engine allowing for easier start up when removing from storage.
- Check the tires to make sure that they are properly inflated.
- For long-term storage, it is recommended to remove the battery from the motorcycle and store in a warm dry space away from the actual vehicle. If you want to keep the battery in the motorcycle, attach it to a battery charger while in storage and make sure that it is charged every few weeks.
- Cover the motorcycle with a cotton tarp, sheet or blanket while it is in storage. Do not use a plastic cover as this will allow moisture to be trapped under cover and cause damage to the metal surfaces.
If you follow these easy steps, your motorcycle will be in great working condition for the next outdoor riding season. Stop by Stop N Stor locations in Hinesville, Port Wentworth and Savannah to find out how we can help with all of your storage needs from vehicle storage to business storage.