Winter is coming.
For many riders, that means putting their motorcycle away. But how do you prevent your motorcycle from becoming a pathetic dust magnet during the winter?
At WheelsWork we believe in one thing:
A motorcycle must be ready for action , always.
Therefore: 5 maintenance tips that every rider must do before the motorcycle goes into winter.
1. Clean and protect your engine (NEVER store it dirty)
Mud, insects and salt residue eat into paint, plastics and metal.
Putting a dirty motorcycle away = rust and dull spots in the spring.
✅ Use a good bike wash (Muc-Off or Motul)
✅ Rinse with cold water (no high pressure on bearings or electronics)
✅ Then protect with a spray or wax
A clean engine is a happy engine.
2. Clean and lubricate the chain
A dry chain is the biggest winter enemy.
Especially at cold temperatures, the chain can rust faster.
✅ Use chain cleaner first
✅ Then apply a fresh layer of chain spray
✅ Turn the wheel slowly, let it soak in well
🟢 TIP: Only lubricate the chain after riding, when the chain is warm.
Then it will absorb the spray better.
3. Disconnect the battery or charge it with a trickle charger
A battery that is left idle for months → slowly drains.
More than half of the "engine won't start" reports in March were caused by this.
✅ Use a trickle charger (Optimate or CTEK)
✅ Connect it as soon as you put the bike away
✅ Battery stays healthy and starts immediately in spring
4. Check tire pressure
Cold air = lower tire pressure.
A flat tire deforms, and that can cause cracks.
✅ Inflate the tires slightly higher than normal
✅ Move the engine regularly so that it does not remain on one plane
✅ Or use paddock stands if you have them
5. Cover (but let the engine breathe)
Do not use a hardware store tarp.
That retains moisture → rust.
✅ Use a breathable motorcycle cover
✅ Place the motorcycle in a dry place (preferably not directly on a cold floor)
Bonus WheelsWork Tip
Lubricate moving parts such as:
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Hinges
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Cables
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Castle
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Standard
This is how you prevent parts from getting stuck in the spring.
Ready for the new season
With 30 minutes of work you can keep your engine:
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beautiful,
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protected,
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and ready to go.
And that fits perfectly with our motto:
WheelsWork — Driven by passion. Defined by quality.
View our maintenance products here:
