Must-Know Tips For indoor Motorcycle Storage

Mother Nature can be rough on motorcycles left outdoors for long periods of time, exposed to Albuquerque’s fluctuating weather. And not everyone owns a garage, or has room in their garage, for indoor motorcycle storage. For many, renting a storage unit can be a perfect solution.

HOW DO YOU PREP FOR LONG-TERM MOTORCYCLE STORAGE? 

If you’re storing your bike indoors, especially if it will be for an extended period of time, there are some best practices to consider to help keep it in good condition and ready for your next ride.

Freshen up bike fluids 

Hot, sunny weather can cause your motorcycle’s fluids to evaporate quickly, so depending on how long it’s been since the last time you changed the bike’s fluids, make sure the fluids are full and fresh before storage. This means all of the fluids—clutch, brake, oil, and coolant. 

If fluids aren’t changed regularly, the contaminants from regular usage can become corrosive and damaging over time.

It’s especially important to change the oil before long-term motorcycle storage. You don’t want your bike sitting idle with oil contaminated by solvents and sediments. This will help you avoid costly repairs down the road and will keep your bike running smoothly.

Fill up the gas tank 

Make sure the gas tank is full. Empty gas tanks can lead to dried-out seals and corrosion. Even tanks that aren’t completely empty can be damaged if rust forms. That’s why you should fill up the fuel tank and, for extra protection, consider adding a fuel stabilizer additive to prevent crystallization. Cystallized fuel can clog fuel injectors and carburetors.

If your motorcycle has a carburetor, draining it can help prevent gasoline from clogging the inside and causing damage.

Raise the tires 

If your bike is sitting for an extended period, the weight can cause the tires to deform from the constant pressure on the same spot. You can prevent this by lifting the tires off the ground with a centerstand, stands, dollies, or lifts. 

If it isn’t possible to lift the bike, at least move it around every few weeks so the tires aren’t resting on the same spot for a long time.

Protect the battery 

Batteries can lose their charge or become damaged if they’re left sitting for a long time, so you’ll want to make sure you protect the battery. It may seem like a good idea to start the engine every few weeks to charge up the battery and circulate the fluids, but it isn’t recommended for motorcycle storage.

Why? Starting your bike can cause condensation and moisture to build up in the engine and exhaust. It’s best to connect the battery to a battery tender or completely remove it from the bike. This can help extend the battery’s life.

Clean and dry your bike 

Prepping for motorcycle storage also involves thoroughly cleaning and drying your bike. Storing a dirty bike can be damaging to metal and rubber parts. After washing your bike, make sure it is completely dry. Any moisture left on the bike can cause corrosion. For extra protection, treat any chrome, wax the motorcycle, and lubricate the chain. 

Washing, drying, and waxing your bike before storage helps keep it in good condition, and it will be spotless and ready for the next ride.

KEEPING YOUR BIKE SAFE 

If you have limited or no garage storage at your home, it may seem easiest to simply throw on a motorcycle cover and keep it outdoors. Outdoor storage not only exposes your bike to temperature extremes (and critters looking for a new home) but also to theft. 

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), an average of 4,561 motorcycles were reported stolen each month in 2022. While the trends in motorcycle theft fluctuate year to year, why take the risk?

Indoor motorcycle storage at a gated, well-lit, and secure self-storage facility with controlled access will give you peace of mind that your bike is safe and in good condition. Regardless of where your bike is stored, always remember to keep the title safe. This means not keeping it in the bike’s storage compartment.

 

Looking for an indoor storage solution for your motorcycle? Call Albuquerque Self Storage today to learn more.