I live in Northern Wisconsin. We can get some long, harsh, winters here.
I just recently packed my baby away for the winter. Here's what I did. I know it sounds like a lot, but it really only takes me a couple of hours. This should work for just about any bike
First, I wash and wax the bike.
I changed the oil and filter.
My bike is a shaft drive, but if your bike has a chain, lube the chain
My bike is liquid cooled. I checked the coolant level and tested the anti-freeze to make sure it was good to the coldest expected temperature. In northern Wisconsin, this is about -35F.
I filled the fuel tank full. With a full tank, you get less condensation and less risk of rust inside the fuel tank.
I added the recommended amount of Sta-Bil fuel stabilizer to the fuel.
I started the engine and drove it around the block to get the Sta-Bil into the carburetors.
I then closed the fuel valve, but let the engine run until the fuel was out of the carburetors.
I removed the spark plugs and poured about 1/2 ounce of motor oil down the holes. I re-installed the plugs and turned the engine over once.
I removed the battery. I cleaned the battery. I checked the acid level. Only fill with distilled water if needed. I put the battery on an automatic 2 amp battery charger about once a month for about an hour. I store the battery in a warm place.
I check the air pressure in the tires.
I have a storage shed where I keep my bike.
I cover with a good motorcycle cover
My bike can stay in this state for about 2 years if needed.
In the spring, usually around mid April, I might bring it out of the storage shed and into my garage a week or so before I plan to ride it if I am planning any additional maintenance.
I wait until all of the snow and ice is off of the road and the frost has come out of the ground. This is because in the spring we commonly get black ice. You never ever want to hit black ice on a motorcycle. After this, I wait for a good hard rain to wash any remaining salt from the roads.
I get the bike out of storage.
I give it a once over for problems
I put the battery on an automatic 2 amp charger for about an hour
I re-install the battery
I check the tire pressure
My bike is a shaft drive, but if your bike has a chain, lube the chain
INPORTANT: Remember that you put oil down the spark plug holes. Be aware of where the exhaust pipes are pointing. It may spit oil out of the pipes. It will smoke badly for a minute or two. Either start it up outside or make sure the garage door is open.
Start it up and enjoy your first ride of the season
In addition, a service manual will help a lot. I got a Clymer manual for my bike for about $25. The best investment I ever made on my ride. It has more detailed information on what is required to keep my bike healthy. It has detailed step by step instructions on how to do just about any maintenance on my bike. It will pay for itself the first time you use it.
