Winterizing

[2017EX_imp]

I came across this "Winterizing" article on Revzilla, and thought I would post a link to it. I imagine most if not all of it is old news to a lot of us, but for those a little less experienced it might be helpful. Then too, other members can add additional tips, tricks, and thoughts on the subject.

How not to winterize your motorcycle: Nine mistakes riders make - RevZilla

 

[GoldOxide_imp]

The last time I winterized a bike was over 30 years ago. Ride with common sense, and tender issues as per normal practice. I don't recall not even a minor issue, ever.

- - -

Okay, I lied. I think the RD400 had a problem kicking over at -15C. It finally did after about 30+ kicks.

 

[peterbaron]

So, I think, mine past that test.
:

 

[Rocky_imp]

Good guide for somebody new to the sport and has to lay the bike up for the winter.
I've been "winterizing" for 27 winters so have the system down pat that works for me and everything starts right up come spring.

 

[GoldOxide_imp]

So, I think, mine past that test.
:

My two-stoke :biker: was notorious to engine flooding at low temperatures.

 

[Wisedrum]

My bikes are being used through wintertime. Not so often as in warmer periods but quite some rides here and then. The only kind of winterizing them is to rubb some oil and grease on parts which tend to rust or oxidate. And to avoid riding on salted streets. So they have to come through the winter as outdoor bikes protected by a breathable cover when not being ridden. They are used to it. It somehow works. They are commodities. Of course nice ones.

Wisedrum

 

[QimmiQ_imp]

So... this could be another oil thread but do folks have a favourite fuel stabilizer? I currently have SeaFoam but I have used other products. Since I have never had any issues, I do wonder what really separates them and if it is all just hype. We are due for 15 cm of snow this weekend in Atlantic Canada, so I think my season is done. Well that and I can see the metals bands on my tire.

 

[the Ferret]

I used to use Stabil and only ever had 1 issue with a piece of lawn equipment. I switched to Seafoam several years ago and have not had any issues so I will stick with that for now.

 

[Rocky_imp]

I've always had good results with either Seafoam or Stabil.

 

[KiowaEagle_imp]

How much Seafoam do you guys use per tank?

 

[the Ferret]

I'll use an ounce or an ounce and a half per gallon depending on the machine and how long I expect it to be laid up. Probably in another week or so my wife and I will drag out all the equipment into the driveway (push mower, lawn tractor, 2 leaf blowers, a weed whacker, and a chain saw), fill them up with gas, dump in the seafoam, run them for a little while to get seafoam'ed gas in the carbs, turn them off and then put them up for winter. I'll also Seafoam my spare gas cans for each piece. The 5 gallon one (for the mowers) gets used in the winter for the ATV w/snow plow.

 

[LongRanger_imp]

I've had good success with Stabil and usually double the recommended dosage in my bikes. I think the label says "1 oz protects up to 2 1/2 gallons of gas" -- I double that.

 

[Houtman_imp]

I use the Blue Stabil , more concentrated and therefor much cheaper than the red one as you use a lesser amount per gallon.

 

[peterbaron]

Almost ready to fall into deep sleep, a few more things, overall cover, goodnight and happy winter snoring....

:-/

 

[Cormanus]

 

[clearviewx]

Almost ready to fall into deep sleep, a few more things, overall cover, goodnight and happy winter snoring....

:-/

What's that plastic wheel on the left side of the front tire? Is that just for protection?

 

[peterbaron]

Ya, on both front discs, protector from moisture/corrosion

 

[GoldOxide_imp]

My CB is ready to go in an instant, so long the road is dry and not icy. Salt dust is acceptable, I suppose maybe similar to riding along the salt basins of Salt Lake City, UT.

 

[teamvisegrip_imp]

I think I am the King of Winterizing... LOL! Most of my bikes get laid up for long periods of time. This last year and a ½ was the worst as I was on the ship for all the good weather. All I got was @ 5 miles on the CB1100 after the TSR Parts were installed. Once done it was stored again.

So yes a number of my bikes get stored for very long times. For me I use the Stabil. But I have to do more due to the fact the bikes are at a storage area to make room to play in the garage. My extra protection is to hang mothballs under the bike covers. this is an absolute must. The covers get rolled up tight as possible. I also spray bug repellant all around the outside edges of the unit. As for the Carbureted bikes they are always drained along with the Petcocks if possible. Tanks are always topped off.

Now next year will be bad too only a bit of Spring. But 2021 I am set as I retire the end of 2020.

 

[GoldOxide_imp]

Sounds like you have a plan TVG. It won't be long before your challenges will be where to ride and what. Hang in there.