Time to dust off your bike for some summer riding! Before you hit the road, there a few things you should do to prepare your motorcycle for the hot season.
Transport
If your vehicle has been in storage in a remote location, you’ll need a tow truck to get it back to you. You’ll want to find a towing company that offers flatbed towing. This is the safest way to transport your bike. Remove any protective covers and make sure the towing company uses the proper straps to secure your motorcycle.
Preparation
Before you rev your engine, you’ll want to perform a little maintenance to make sure your bike is ready to ride. First, take a look over your fuel system. Replace the fuel filter and examine the fuel tank, fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks. If you used fuel stabilizer, your fuel should be in good shape. Make sure by opening the filler cap and looking inside for gunk or stratification. If the fuel is consistent and clean, you can move on. If not, you should drain the tank and fuel lines before running the engine.
Oil
Most motorcycle manufacturers recommend an oil change before and after storing your vehicle. During storage, the oil can separate, causing a condensation build-up that may harm your engine. Whether or not you changed your engine oil before storage, you’ll still want to check the oil level before riding.
Check the Fluids.
Check the fluid hose connections for looseness or signs of leakage. Check for cracks in all hoses and replace as needed. Check the levels and consistency of all of the fluids. Change any fluid that looks suspicious and top off any that need refilling. Flush and replace the old antifreeze with the proper coolant. You also should replace the air filter.
Charge the Battery.
If you removed the battery for storage and kept it charged, clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush, then grease and reconnect. If you kept your battery trickle-charged or hooked up to a tender, it will probably in good shape. Check the leads for corrosion and make sure they’re attached snugly. Depending on your battery, you may have to fill the cells with distilled water. Be sure the vent tube is connected and properly routed.
Check the Brakes.
Check and fill the brake fluid level, and replace it if it’s dirty. Examine the brake lines for cracks and leaks. Inspect the brake pads and discs for wear. If they’re thin, you may want to get new ones. Thoroughly clean the brake rotors with brake cleaner. Lubricate the front-brake hand lever and throttle cables.
Test the Electrical System
Check your electronics, switches, lights, and gauges for proper operation. Test your regular and high-beam headlamps, and front and rear turn signals. Test your rear brake light and ensure it lights up when you engage the brakes. Test the horn to ensure it’s working. If you’re unsure if you’re motorcycle is fit to hit the road, you should it towed to a professional repair shop. Piedmont Towing offers flatbed towing to safely transport your bike. Contact us with any questions about this process.
No matter your situation, if you are in need of roadside assistance or a tow make sure you call Piedmont Towing. We serve the Advance, Winston-Salem & Lewisville, NC areas.
And just so you have it handy, our phone number is (336) 998-3000.