Putting bike away for winter

[Patlawlor]

Hi, 
2001 FZS600 36k miles.

Is there a thread on what I will need to do to put the bike away for the winter since I  won’t be able to ride it for a while.


Cheers

[b1k3rdude]

I should technically know the answer to this, as I have two bikes and they both live outside. But I imagine someone with more knowledge/exp will be along shortly -

Depending on how long you don't ride it -

- first clean the bike, then with a clean microfibre cloth, give the entire bike a rubdown with GT85/ACF50.
- discs, typically you never spray anything on these. But if the bike is laid up for months, then wiping them over with an oily rag (dont spray, as you might get it on the pads) and then cleaning off with brake cleaner before riding again.
- chain, its a good time to clean and then re-lube the chain.
- all lever joints, side/center stands, should get a squirt of GT85/ACF50.
- stuff an oily rag into the end of the exhaust, reducing moisture ingress.
- if outside put a water resistant cover over the bike, if inside a dust cover.

[Gnasher]

Assuming it's a FZS with crabs and you don't want to ride it until the spring. Disconnect the fuel supply, run it until it stops, wash it, put protectrant on it, put the battery the battery on charge.  job done.

[Schomosport]

I sometimes say hello to them and give them a pat as I walk through the garage. Other than that I monitor battery voltage and put them on charge as necessary. Worked perfectly well for my single seater racing cars for many years, don't see why bikes should be any more fragile. Probably also a good idea to check tyre pressure now and then.