Prepare your Motorcycle for Raining Season Storage

Extended motorcycle storage, such as for the raining season requires that you take certain steps to reduce the effects of deterioration from non-use of the motorcycle. In addition, necessary repairs should be made before storing the motorcycle; otherwise, these repairs may be forgotten by the time the motorcycle is removed from storage.

First change the engine oil, and empty the fuel tank into an approved petrol container using a commercially available hand siphon or an equivalent method. If your motorcycle use a iron fuel-tank, spray the inside of the tank with an aerosol rust-inhibiting oil. Not forget to reinstall the fuel fill cap on the fuel-tank.

If your motorcycle storage will last more than one month, and if your motorcycle is using carburetors you need to drain the carburetors – this is especially important if you use fuel containing ethanol, this will assure working and proper performance after storage.

To prevent corrosion in the cylinder, perform the following:

• Remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug. Using tape or string, secure the cap to any convenient plastic part so it is positioned away from the spark plug.
• Remove the spark plug from the engine and store it in a safe place. Do not connect the spark plug to the spark plug cap.
• Pour 15 to 20cc of clean engine oil into the cylinder and cover the spark plug hole with a piece of cloth.
• Crank the engine several times to distribute the oil.
• Reinstall the spark plug and spark plug cap.
• Remove the battery. Store in an area protected from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
• Wash and dry the motorcycle. Wax all painted surfaces. Coat chrome with rust-inhibiting oil or special chrome protection wax.
• Lubricate the drive chain. Use WD-40 or any serious chain lubrication product
• Inflate the tires to their recommended pressures. Place the motorcycle on blocks to raise both tires off the ground.
• Cover the motorcycle, and please don't use plastic or other coated materials, and store in an cool area, free of dampness with as less possible temperature variations
• Do not store the motorcycle in direct sunlight.