Winter is a challenging season for motorcycle riders. The cold, wet, and snowy weather can create several issues for motorcycles, including rust, battery issues, and tire problems.
However, with proper preparation and care, you can protect your motorcycle from the harsh winter elements and ensure it stays in great condition all year round. Here at Tru-Tension, we have created the ultimate guide to discuss the best ways to protect your motorcycle in winter.
Clean Your Motorcycle Regularly
Cleaning your motorcycle regularly is essential for its maintenance, but it’s especially important during the winter months. The winter weather can cause dirt, salt, and other debris to build up on your motorcycle, which can lead to rust and other problems.
To clean your motorcycle, start by washing it thoroughly with warm soapy water. Use a soft sponge or brush to clean the bodywork, and avoid using high-pressure washers, as they can force water into sensitive areas. Once you have washed the bike, dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth, paying particular attention to areas where water can collect, such as the brakes, wheels, and engine.
Read our guide on how to keep your motorbike looking its best. >
Protect Your Motorcycle from Rust
Rust is a common problem for motorcycles during the winter months. The high salt content on the roads can cause corrosion on metal components, such as the frame, forks, and exhaust. To protect your motorcycle from rust, there are a few things you can do:
Apply a protective coating:
Before the winter season, apply a protective coating to the metal components of your motorcycle. This will help to prevent rust and corrosion from forming. There are many different types of protective coatings available, including sprays, waxes, and oils. Choose one that is specifically designed for motorcycles and is compatible with your bike’s finish.
Keep your motorcycle clean:
As mentioned above, regular cleaning is essential for protecting your motorcycle from rust. The salt and other debris on the roads can quickly accumulate on your bike, so make sure to wash it frequently, especially after riding in wet or snowy conditions.
Store your motorcycle in a dry place:
If possible, store your motorcycle in a dry place during the winter months. A garage or storage unit is ideal, as it will protect your bike from the elements and prevent rust from forming.
Protect Your Motorcycle Battery
The cold weather can be tough on motorcycle batteries. The low temperatures can reduce the battery’s capacity and make it harder to start the engine. To protect your motorcycle battery during the winter, there are a few things you can do:
- Keep your battery charged.
Make sure to keep your battery charged throughout the winter months, even if you’re not riding your motorcycle. You can do this by using a battery tender or trickle charger, which will keep your battery at a consistent level of charge.
- Insulate your battery.
If your motorcycle is stored outside, consider insulating your battery with a cover or blanket. This will help to keep it warm and prevent it from losing its charge.
- Start your motorcycle regularly.
If you’re not riding your motorcycle regularly during the winter, make sure to start the engine every few weeks. This will help to keep the battery charged and prevent it from losing its charge.
Explore the top tips and advice for riding a motorbike in winter here. >
Protect Your Motorcycle Tires
Tire problems are another common issue for motorcycles during the winter months. The cold weather can cause the air in your tires to contract, which can lead to underinflation. This can cause poor handling, reduced grip, and even tire damage. To protect your motorcycle tires during the winter, there are a few things you can do:
It is important to check your tire pressure regularly. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly during the winter months, as the cold weather can cause the air in your tires to contract. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure levels to ensure proper handling and grip.
Additionally, storing your motorcycle on a level surface can be a huge benefit. If you’re storing your motorcycle for an extended period during the winter, make sure to park it on a flat surface as this will help to prevent flat spots from forming on the tires.
If you live in an area with particularly harsh winter conditions, consider using winter tires on your motorcycle. These tires are designed to provide better grip and handling in cold and snowy conditions.
Discover what you can do if your tyres go flat while riding your motorbike here. >
Protect Your Motorcycle Engine
The engine is the heart of your motorcycle, and it’s essential to protect it during the winter months. The cold weather can cause the oil in your engine to thicken, making it harder for the engine to turn over. To protect your motorcycle engine during the winter, there are a few things you can do:
- Change your oil.
Before the winter season, consider changing your motorcycle’s oil to a thinner, winter-grade oil. This will help to ensure that your engine turns over smoothly, even in cold weather.
- Warm up your engine.
Before you start your motorcycle during the winter months, make sure to let it warm up for a few minutes. This will help to get the oil flowing and ensure that the engine turns over smoothly.
- Use a fuel stabiliser.
If you’re not riding your motorcycle regularly during the winter, consider using a fuel stabiliser to prevent the fuel from breaking down. This will help to protect your engine from damage caused by stale fuel.
Cover Your Motorcycle
Finally, consider covering your motorcycle during the winter months. A motorcycle cover will help to protect your bike from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind. This will help to keep your motorcycle clean and dry and prevent rust and other problems from forming.
When choosing a motorcycle cover, make sure to choose one that is designed for your specific make and model of motorcycle. A good cover should fit snugly over your motorcycle and be made from a breathable, waterproof material.
Tru-Tension and Winter Protection for Your Motorcycle
Tru-Tension offers a range of products that can help protect your motorbike during the winter months. Here are a few ways in which Tru-Tension can help:
Chain cleaning and lubrication
During winter, roads are often salted to prevent ice from forming, and this can cause damage to your motorcycle’s chain. Tru-Tension’s Chain Care Kit includes a water-based cleaner that can remove salt and other debris from your chain, as well as a lubricant that can protect it from corrosion.
Rust prevention
Tru-Tension’s Rust Release Penetrant can be used to protect your bike’s metal parts from rust during the winter months. Simply apply the product to the metal surface and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. This will help to prevent rust from forming.
Battery maintenance
Cold weather can be tough on your motorcycle’s battery. Tru-Tension’s Fluid Battery Conditioner can help to maintain your battery’s performance during the winter months. Simply add the product to your battery and it will help to prevent sulfation and extend the life of your battery.
Bike cover
Tru-Tension’s waterproof bike cover can help to protect your motorcycle from the elements during the winter months. The cover is made from high-quality materials that will keep your bike dry and protected from snow, rain, and other winter hazards.
Overall, Tru-Tension offers a range of products that can help to protect your motorbike during the winter months, so why not get the ball rolling and get in touch with one of our friendly and professional members of the team today.
Alternatively, take a look at our available products here.