Bringing a motorcycle out of storage

After weeks or months in storage, a motorcycle needs more than a push of the starter. A methodical check helps you avoid a breakdown and find problems before they find you.

1. Look the bike over

Remove the cover and look for leaks, rodent damage, corrosion, flat spots on the tyres and anything that has moved while it was stored.

2. Battery

Check the charge and the terminals. Charge a flat battery with a suitable charger.
A battery that will not hold a charge needs replacing.

3. Fuel and fluids

Old fuel can go stale. If the bike was stored with a stabiliser, follow its instructions. Otherwise consider draining old fuel and refilling.
Check engine oil, coolant and brake fluid levels, and the age of the fluids.
Look at the fuel lines and filter for cracks or blockage.

4. Tyres, brakes and chain

Set the tyre pressure, and check for cracks, flat spots and age.
Press the brake levers and look at the pads, discs and hoses.
Clean, lube and adjust the chain, and check the sprockets.
Check the lights, indicators, horn and controls.

5. Start and ride gently

Start the engine and let it warm up. Ride the first kilometres gently, test the brakes at low speed and listen for new noises. See long-term storage, battery care and the pre-ride check.

If something looks wrong, have a workshop look at it before you ride.