Winter ready?

Oxford Protex Stretch Motorcycle Cover

Hello and welcome to Alex's Blog. UK roads are a hard taskmaster in the Winter months, which is why a lot of bikers decide to put their bike away for the colder season. Is your bike Winter ready? Here are some tips to make sure it is:

1. Wash your bike

Muc-Off Bike Starter Kit

You should definitely clean your bike before you put it away. Salt from the road can be corrosive and if your bike isn't getting any use a good clean just protects it from anything nasty. We sell a massive assortment of cleaning products, in-store and online. The more thorough you are when putting your motorcycle away, the easier your life will be when its time to bring it out again! You want to get into every nook and cranny.

2. Get it serviced

Motorcycle servicing

If you can get your loved one serviced before you put it away. This gives you peace of mind and just means that your bike is in tip-top condition when it goes away - meaning it should be in tip-top condition when it comes out to play! Everything will be oiled and greased from your service. We offer services at our Doncaster and Oakmere sites.

3. Protect it in storage

Oxford Big Black Paddock Stand

Depending on where you keep your bike during it's Winter lockdown, the best thing is to keep it dry. If you have a dry garage, use a dust sheet or blanket to cover the bike to keep moisture out – a dehumidifier is a good idea. If you cannot guarantee a moisture-free environment, then you need a cover. For more tips on covers read this blog. It is a good idea to move the bike every now and again to stop flat spots or even better, put the bike on Paddock Stands. Extremely easy to use, guarantees the safety of your bike in storage and they can be easily wheeled to change location! Remember a paddock stand isn't just for Christmas/Winter, it's for life! A paddock stand is a handy addition to any garage or workshop all year round.

4. Charge your battery

Oxford Products Oximiser 900

Batteries suffer in the winter months as the temperature drops. Make sure that you have some sort of motorcycle (not car) battery optimiser. Old-style “wet” batteries should be topped up. You can also grease the terminals to stop corrosion. We sell a wide variety of products to give you exactly what you need for your bike.

5. Use a Fuel Stabiliser

Putoline Fuel Stabiliser

Using a fuel stabiliser or conditioner is highly recommended to stop any residual fuel, if storing, turning into toffee in your tank and carbs. If storing for a long time, empty the fuel completely – it's also a good excuse for a really good last blast before you do put it away!

6. Check your tyre pressures

Michelin Tyre Pressure Sensor

Check your tyres – make sure they are set at the right pressure and are in good condition. You don't want a nasty surprise of needing replacement tyres when you bring your bike out again! We sell a choice of tyre pressure accessories.

7. Check your brakes

Rock Oil Brake Kleen

Your brakes can become really sticky in the winter months because of all the road dirt and salt etc. coming up from the road - it is always a good idea to check them and even replace the brake pads if needs be. A good clean with brake cleaner should sort them out and a quick top-up of brake fluid.

8. Check your coolant

Motul Motocool Expert

Whether storing or riding, check your coolant with a hydrometer or if you have no record of it being replaced in the past few years drain and replace.

9. Lube up

ACF50 Anti-Corrosion Formula

Make sure your bike is well lubed. This protects your bike, for the all year rounder as well as those putting their bike into storage. This is an essential tip for all bikers at all times. We sell a huge range! Something for everyone!

10. Oil your chain

Tru-Tension Chain Monkey

Likewise, your chain must be kept oiled and at the correct tension. We stock a vast range of products to suit you and your bike to make not only oiling your chain easy but to make the process of chain tensioning quick and simple!

If you are a Winter rider and don't want to put your bike away for the Winter months, then check out our top Winter buys for 2020 and make sure you're nice and toasty warm this season.

Until next time, stay safe,

Alex