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How to Store Your Harley-Davidson® for the Winter

Posted By: Mike's Famous Harley-Davidson
Post Date: 11/21/2022

A cold winter is fast approaching. Are you prepared? If you live in an area that experiences snow or cold weather, like Connecticut, you need to make sure that you protect your bike from the elements of nature.

Storing your 2023 Harley-Davidson® motorcycles in CT properly is critical before putting them away for the winter. If you don’t have a bike, now is the perfect time to check out Mike’s Famous 2023 Harley-Davidson® lineup. We offer a wide selection of new and used bikes, and offer winter storage to help you keep it safe throughout the season!

Here are some tips on how to correctly store your Harley® for the winter, so you can start fresh when Spring arrives. 

Harley-Davidson® for the Winter

How To Winterize Your Harley-Davidson

There’s no denying that Harley-Davidson® bikes are more than just transportation. They’re a lifestyle, a passion, and an inextricable part of what makes you who you are. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your bike during the winter months.

Winterizing your Harley isn’t difficult or expensive, but there are some steps you should take before storing it away for the cold weather. After all, if you want to ride again when spring rolls around, your bike needs to be in good shape! Here are some tips on how to winterize your Harley-Davidson®.

Freshen Up Fluids

Ride or drive your bike until it’s up to operating temperature, then shut off the engine and let it cool down completely. While your bike is cooling, check the level of all fluids: oil, brake, and battery. Add fresh fluid if necessary (see owner's manual for exact levels). This will help flush out any moisture that may have gotten into the system during use. 

Change the Oil

Change your engine oil to a heavy 10W-40 oil with a high viscosity index (VI), such as Mobil 1 5W-30 synthetic oil. Choose this oil because it won't break down as easily after sitting in storage for months. You'll also want to use an oil filter specifically designed for extended drain intervals (at least 10,000 miles between changes), so that you don't have to worry about replacing it during storage. 

Hook Battery Up To a Battery Tender

If you have a battery tender hooked up to your battery, simply remove it and store it inside. If not, hook up the tender and charge your battery fully before storing it for the winter.

Check Your Tires

Check your tires for any leaks or damage. Check for damage in multiple places around the tire, including sidewalls, treads, and belts. If there are any signs of wear or damage, replace them before winterizing your motorcycle or storing it outside during the colder months. While checking your tires, ensure they have enough air pressure in them so they won’t go flat during storage.

Scrub, Wash, Dry, and Wax

Wash and wax the bike to help prevent rust from forming on the metal parts of the bike.

Wax and Lubricate the Chain

You should also apply a wax lubricant to the chain. This will help prevent corrosion on the chain links and sprockets, and protect them from damage caused by dirt buildup and road grime.

Inspect the Belt Drive

Inspecting your belt drive will ensure that there are no frayed belts or broken pulley teeth that could cause damage to other parts of your engine during operation. Inspecting your belt drive is especially important if you have a V-twin motorcycle because these designs often have one belt rather than two separate belts running through each cylinder bank (which is more common in inline four-cylinder engines).

Prep the Exhaust Pipe

You should always ensure your exhaust pipe is clear of debris before storing your motorcycle. If you have a two-into-one exhaust, remove it and store it separately. If you have an aftermarket exhaust that can be removed from the bike, do so. If you don’t, make sure it’s clean and free of any leaves or debris.

Store On Stands If Possible

If you have stands for your Harley-Davidson®, use them! This will help prevent flat tires and keep your bike off the ground during storage. Just make sure to store your bike on level ground – if it’s not level, it could develop flat spots over time.

Use the Correct Cover

Make sure you use the correct cover for your motorcycle. Some covers are designed specifically for motorcycles with big engines or have special features like rain protection or extra ventilation. 

Store In a Ventilated Area

Harley® motorcycles need airflow to stay cool while they rest during winter and prevent rusting on their chrome accessories like mirrors and windshields.

Winter Storage At Mike’s Famous®

Mike’s Famous® offers winter storage now through April 15, 2023. Our storage services include climate-controlled storage, fuel stabilization, MC battery tender, multi-point inspection, and bike wash. Storage is FREE if you purchase $395 or more in parts and labor. If you’d rather not use the free option, storage is available for $279 plus tax. Space is limited so call now!

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