Why Winterizing Your Motorcycle Matters in Ohio
Riding a motorcycle on Ohio roads is perfect during the warm months, but once winter hits, your bike can be damaged if it’s unprotected. Exposure to salt and cold weather can drain your battery, wear down your tires, and damage metal components, increasing corrosion risk. Even if you only leave it outside briefly, it can lead to costly repairs. For a safe ride next season, preparing and winterizing your motorcycle for the harsh Ohio winter months is crucial.
Where to Store Your Motorcycle in Ohio
Living in Ohio means you’ll need to consider how you’ll store your motorcycle during the winter months. No matter where you store it, be sure to have a quality cover equipped for the storage option you choose, indoors or outdoors.
When parking your bike outdoors without a covered spot, raise your bike off the concrete and cover it with a heavy-duty cover that can block snow and precipitation. Outdoor storage spaces with covers are also a good option, providing a roof over your bike.
For those able to secure an indoor storage space, look for dry, well-ventilated spaces. Keeping your bike dry and covered is key; you should still elevate your motorcycle off the concrete.
If you’re looking for a place to store your bike over the winter, check out your local Harley Davidson dealer, like Hall of Fame Harley Davidson in Cuyahoga Falls or Toledo Harley Davidson. Both offer secure, climate-controlled storage for your bike over the winter.
In Columbus, Motohio offers winter storage with a battery tender lead installed and indoor, covered storage.
Common Motorcycle Storage Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re ready to store your motorcycle for the winter, remember a few key steps and avoid some mistakes.
- Fill up your tank before storing your bike, and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent ethanol buildup, clogged injectors, and carburetors.
- Clean off your chain and properly lubricate it.
- Prep your bike after cleaning it with wax and treat your bike’s components for rust prevention.
- Use a battery tender meant for long-term use and for your type of battery. Leaving your battery connected and uncharged can drain it, leaving you with a dead bike on the first ride.
- Invest in a quality cover. Your motorcycle not being properly protected because of a cover is one of the easiest ways to damage your bike.
- Using a cheap tarp instead of a quality cover can lead to trapped moisture and risk damaging your ride.
- Don’t leave your bike on bare concrete over winter. Use a mat or motorcycle stand to prevent moisture buildup or rust.
- Don’t start the bike periodically unless you can take a 30-minute ride to full operating temperature; short idling promotes condensation.
Ride Safe Year-Round & Know Who to Call if a Motorcycle Accident Happens in Ohio
No matter when you’re riding, you don’t have to face the aftermath of an accident alone. After a crash, our Ohio motorcycle accident attorneys will act quickly to handle your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. Our Rapid Investigation Team can be on-site within 24 hours to investigate your crash, collect medical records and accident reports, and communicate with insurers. We take pride in providing our clients with successful case results.
With extensive experience, our experienced attorneys work to hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact Gervelis Law Firm today for a free consultation or call (866) 792-2728.