Winter will soon be here. If you own a motorcycle, you know what that means; it's time start planning for its storage. Storage time is never a happy time for bike owners. However, it is an important time. Riding a bike during the frigid winter weather is nearly impossible, and downright dangerous. Before you push your bike into the garage one last time until spring, take a few steps to make sure it survives through the winter. Without proper storage, your bike could suffer serious damage from the freezing temperatures. Here are some simple maintenance tips that will protect your bike this winter.

Give it an Oil Change

Once you've taken the last ride of the season, and you're ready to put your bike into storage, you'll need to give it an oil change. Leaving deteriorating oil in your engine, is a good way to end up with a gummy mess when spring arrives. It's also a good idea to use a winter-grade oil during storage. Using winter-grade oil will ensure an easy start once warmer weather arrives.

Add a Fuel Stabilizer

You might not realize this, but winter can wreak havoc on your fuel system. First, moisture can build up inside the tank, which can cause rust to develop. Second, gas can thicken and turn sticky during the cold, winter months, especially while your bike is in storage. To prevent rust, and fuel problems, fill your tank, and add a bottle of fuel stabilizer before you store your bike for the winter.

Clean it Top to Bottom

When it's time to put your bike into storage, you'll want to make sure it's clean and ready to go away for the winter. Putting your bike into storage while it's dirty is a good way to ruin the finish. Start by washing your car, top to bottom. Be sure to remove all the road dust, grease spots, and dead bugs. Once you've washed it, you'll need to dry it as thoroughly as possible. Leaving moisture on your bike can lead to serious corrosion. If you're worried about the spots that you can't reach with a towel, you can use your blow dryer to get to those areas. Finally, apply a generous coat of fresh wax before you put your bike into storage.

Step Up the Bike Stand

Storage can destroy your tires, especially if your bike is being stored on a concrete surface. Not only will storing your bike on a concrete surface can cause flat spots to develop on your tires, it can also lead to moisture damage. To protect your tires, you should always store your bike on a motorcycle stand. Don't take chances with your bike this winter. Use the instructions provided here to protect your bike while it's in storage.