Hi,

Just wondering what is the best way to store your bike for winter? I have a 2004 Honda CBR 600rr
I currently have it in my garage, I run the bike once a week just to warm it up and let the oil warm up.
Any advice would be highly appreciated.

Thanks

 

Add some Stabil (or similar product) to the tank and run it long enough to get
to the carbs.
Top off the tank, that prevents condensation forming on the inside of the tank.

If you're starting it once a week, that's cool (if you let it idle for a bit to top the battery).
Other-wise, get a trickle-charger, one that monitors, so you can leave it plugged in.
A lot of folks, remove the battery, bring it into the warm and use a trickle on it there.

If you can spring the cash for a set of stands, they'll keep the tires from getting a flat-spot.
Of course, just creeping it forward and back, every couple of weeks, will do the same thing.
Just a few inches at a time, is sufficent.

It's a good idea to change the fluids before parking it.
Saves you from the tendency to blow it off, that first nice spring day.

It also assures that, the acids that tend to form in the oil (from the combustion blow-by), are removed.
This prevents separation/pooling and causing internal corrosion.

Obviously, fresh coolant will enhance the bike's ability to resist freezing damage.

Cleaning lubing the drive-chain and cables, assures that the bike is ready for the
next riding season, as well.

I, basically, recommend doing all of the normal maintenance schedule.
Plus the couple of specifics, I first mentioned.

Hope this gives you a direction, Ern

 

...And, throw a cover over it. ;-)

 

I've heard that running it like that isn't a good idea. You're not running it long enough to evaporate any condensation buildup and you're just adding to the moisture problem. Ever notice your car exhaust dripping when it's cold and you first start the engine?

It won't charge the battery in that short of time, either. You're draining the battery each time you start it.

Change the oil before storage, put the the battery on a Battery Tender, Jr., put some fuel stabilizer in the tank and run it for a minute to circulate throughout the lines and let it go until next spring.

 

Top off your tank too, to avoid the inside of the tank rusting.

Wouldn't be a bad idea to do a brake line flush next spring as well.

 

Why store it? Unless there is snow on the ground... throw on some gear and enjoy the crisp clean air

 

Thank you for the suggestions!

Sadly snow has hit the ground here in Calgary