Prepping Your Bike After Storage

In some parts of the country, summer and early fall are simply too hot to ride in. When temperatures exceed 100 degrees and clouds are few and far between, the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and general discomfort is too great for many motorcyclists. To this end, many people in the Southwest choose to store their bikes over the summer and bring them out of storage once the weather cools down. Here are a few tips to help you get your bike back on the road after a month or two in storage.

Check Your Tires

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended tire pressure and examine them carefully for any cracks or flat spots that may have developed during the summer months. You want your tires to roll smoothly.

Look at the Brake Lines

The dry heat of summer can wreak havoc on the brake lines, cracking plastic and rubber coatings. Make sure your brake lines are in good condition and seek immediate repairs if you notice any wear or damage.

Test Your Signals

Make sure your lights, blinkers, and signals are working prior to rolling down the road. If you notice any erratic blinking or have a burned out bulb, replace it as soon as possible. While you can use hand signals to indicate your turning direction, they are difficult for drivers to spot at night and in low-light conditions.

Test Your Battery

You may need to charge your battery prior to moving your bike out of the storage unit. Often, batteries won’t hold a charge when idle for several months, especially in areas with extreme heat. If your battery won’t hold a charge or is several years old, you may want to replace it before your riding season begins in earnest.

RC Components can help you customize your bike’s look once you roll it out of storage. Browse our line of custom motorcycle wheels today and turn your bike into an eye-catching masterpiece.