As motorcyclists we understand how hard it is to not be able to burn some rubber and explore the road less traveled. Uncertainty looms over how long it could be before we hit the road again. Meanwhile it is absolutely necessary that we have a long-term storage plan for our motorcycles. Storing them well will ensure they start in the press of a button the day we need them.

1. Safe Parking

Motorcyclists living in metro cities often find it difficult to find a perfect spot for parking. Owning a covered parking or one with a shed is the kind of blessing almost every motorcyclist out there would want.

However in case you have an open parking space you can get a bike cover in order to protect your vehicle from the elements of nature (rain, humidity, heat, bird’s droppings.) A good cover will help reduce paint fade and keep the metallic shiny and the plastics intact. Moreover, covering up your bike is a good investment in indoor parking as well.

2. Wash before leaving it alone

It would be ideal if you wash and then store your vehicle. If washing is not possible, consider wiping the dirt and dust off with a wet cloth before covering it with a bike cover.

3. Park on Main-Stand

Ensure that you have parked the motorcycle on the main stand if you have one on it. This ensures better balance of your bike to withstand strong winds or accidental impact, as well as bystanders leaning against it.

4. Lubrication

Chains, springs, cables, etc. are vulnerable to corrosion due to the humid climate especially when the bike remains stationary for a long time. In order to avoid such rusting you can lubricate the parts with the necessary anti-corrosion liquids, or chain lubes etc.

5. Disconnect the Battery

Batteries tend to get discharged if not used for long. So according to the life of your battery, i.e., if the battery is new or old, make a decision to either disconnect or periodically starting it and letting the engine idle for 10 minutes. Also check for the acid levels in it and make use of distilled water to top up the levels and put it on charge a day before you’re going to take your bike out as it normally takes 3 – 4 hours to charge it up to 95%. Remember to clean the terminals before fitting it into the bike.

6. Lock it up

For peace of your mind, and if you are going to leave your motorcycle in open area unsupervised for long time, you might want to opt a disc break lock. If you get one, make sure you have positioned the bike so that the lock is visible. It will discourage potential thieves from attempting to steal the bike.

7. Empty the essential

Last but not the least it would do a world of good to unscrew the mirrors, empty out the tool kit, , disconnect any auxiliary GPS mounts or bluetooth speakers. These are most susceptible to prying eyes of thieves that are looking to make a quick buck by selling them in the grey market.

By Chirag Saluja