In Ukraine the riding season usually ends in October or November, and the bike then sits for three to five months. Put it away dirty, with a half-empty tank and the battery still connected, and spring may bring rusty chrome, a seized chain, a flat battery and fuel system trouble.
Proper lay-up takes a few hours and saves money and frustration in spring. Here is how to prepare it step by step.
What you will need
Important: Keep WD-40 and lubricants off brake discs, pads and tyres. Disconnect the battery negative terminal first, work on a cold engine and never handle fuel near a naked flame.
Step 1
Wash and inspect thoroughly
Dirt left on over winter bakes onto wheels and fairings, and salt from autumn roads eats into metal. Wash the bike with motorcycle shampoo, dry it carefully with a soft cloth and blow water out of awkward spots with a compressor. Check for any damage from the season and note what needs fixing before spring.
Step 2
Clean and lube the chain
Clean the chain, front sprocket and rear sprocket of dirt and old lube, then wipe dry. Apply WD-40 Specialist Motorcycle Chain Lube to the inside of the chain while slowly turning the wheel and wipe off the excess. Fresh lube protects the chain from corrosion throughout the lay-up.
Step 3
Fill the tank and change the oil
Fill a metal tank almost to the top so there is less air and condensation inside. Ride a few kilometres afterwards so fresh fuel reaches the system. For carburettor bikes, manufacturers often recommend draining the float bowl. It is best to change the engine oil now, with the engine warm: old oil contains combustion by-products that harm parts during storage. Check the coolant level and condition.
Step 4
Look after the battery
The battery suffers most from standing. If the bike winters in a heated garage, connect a charger with a maintenance mode. If it is in a cold garage or outdoors, remove the battery, keep it somewhere dry above freezing and top up the charge periodically. Clean the terminals and connectors with WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner. Never let it go completely flat.
Step 5
Protect the metal from rust
Treat chrome parts, bolts, cables, levers, footrests, the outside of the exhaust and all bare metal surfaces with WD-40 Multi-Use. It displaces moisture and leaves a thin protective film. Spray, leave briefly and spread lightly with a cloth.
Step 6
Take the load off the tyres and cover the bike
Inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure. Ideally put the bike on front and rear stands so the wheels are off the floor. Without stands, roll the bike a little every few weeks to change the contact patch. Use a breathable cover: an airtight sheet traps condensation underneath.
Tip: Do not start the bike for a few minutes in the garage during winter. The engine never warms up properly, condensation forms inside, and the battery loses more charge than it gains. Wait for spring or take a proper ride.
What next
In spring check tyre pressures, fluid levels, brakes and chain tension, and refit the charged battery. During the season, see our guide to maintaining a motocross bike: the chain care and post-wash drying are the same.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».