Most people in northwest Ohio have put away their motorcycles for the winter – except for the boldest of the bold who get a thrill riding in freezing temperatures!

But when you store your bike for the winter, it is important to prepare the motorcycle for the long storage by following these easy but imperative tips. Properly storing your ride will ensure that your motorcycle will be safe to use in the Spring, in turn helping to prevent an Ohio motorcycle accident injury.

Read the first few tips here, and look out for more Ohio motorcycle accident injury prevention winter tips in our next blogs. A big thanks to www.gmasw.com and www.totalmotorcycle.com for this great advice!

1. Choose a good location for your motorcycle storage. See if your local dealer offers a storage program, where many times they will prep your bike for you. If they don’t, choose a spot that is away from windows (the fluctuation in temperature can cause paint to fade and condensation to build, which can lead to rust). Make sure to use a fitted motorcycle cover and not a tarp or sheet. A sheet absorbs moisture and hold it against metal surfaces, causing rust, and the damp fabric will breed mildew and ruin the seat material. While a tarp prevents moisture from getting in, it also prevents it from getting out. The trapped moisture can condense on the motorcycle and also cause rust.

2. Make sure to change the oil before storing your bike for the winter. Even if the oil is not due for a change, byproducts of combustion produce acids in the oil which will harm the inner metal surfaces. Warm the engine to its normal operating temperature, as warm oil drains much faster and more completely. Refill with a winter grade oil, and it’s not a bad idea to change the filter, too.

If you or someone you know has suffered an Ohio motorcycle accident injury, you need information. Order your free copy of The Ohio Motorcycle Accident Book by calling 800.637.8170.