Even though riding season is just gearing up for most people, at the end of this year's season, you'll need to know how to properly store your motocross bike for the winter. Knowing how to store you motocross bike correctly is one of the best ways to prolong the life of your bike. Improper storage is one of the most mechanically degrading things you can do to your motocross bike. If you take the time to store your bike correctly, it will be ready to go in tip-top shape each riding season.
First, make sure you have a place to store your motocross bike. A dry basement or a garage that has no leaks are some of the best places to store your bike during the time you won't be riding.
Next, empty the oil. It's easy to do, simply warm up your engine and drain the oil out. When the reservoir is completely drained, refill with fresh, clean oil. Next, you will want to remove the battery. Put a stack of newspapers under the battery as they can and do leak on rare occasions and as you know, battery acid is a corrosive. Plan for the unexpected and you won't have a mess to clean up.
The next step is to remove each spark plug and put engine oil into each cylinder. Replace the spark plugs and make sure they are replaced tightly. The last thing you need to do engine-wise is to drain the gas tank and carburetor bowls.
You can protect the exterior of your motocross bike by waxing anywhere the bike is painted. This not only protects your paintjob from the elements, it also keeps it bright. Prop your bike's back wheel on a cinder block. Make sure it is not making direct contact with the ground. Cover your bike with a tarp; one made for cars is ideal.
When riding season begins again, simply uncover your motocross bike, put the battery back in place, fill your gas tank and you're ready to hit the trails and hills all over again!
