Prep for winter riding

gavking · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 23 Feb 2005 Karma :

I know there's been a few topics about preping a bike to stay in the garage all winter, but what can you do to save your pride and joy through the winter months if you're not able to afford a winter hack? My bike in particular is a naked bike with a cockpit fairing and has a lot more exposed to the elements.
____________________
XJR400R, Ohlins Shocks, Brembo brakes all round, Full Digital dash, Cockpit fairing, twin lamp headlight. Lookin' Good!

mchaggis · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2004 Karma :

Don't put it to bed with wet forks, they'll probably get pitted. Smear grease/ vaseline over anything shiny which doesn't get hot. Check the chain and lube it at least every week, if not twice a week. Check your tyre pressures and keep them inflated to the correct pressure. You'll start sliding about much faster on low pressure tyres in the muck.

Also, keep a close eye on your petrol and oil, and get breakdown cover. Also consider carrying spare bulbs and cables. Breaking down in the middle of winter is not fun.

Edit: forgot to mention, use vaseline on your battery terminals and electrical connectors, and plenty of WD40 regularly on switchgear, particularly the rear brake light switch, which gets clarted up and sticks remarkably easily.
____________________
I must not be a troll...
Mmmm, Guinness
Discovering the delights of Hammerite and a 3/4" brush. Very Happy

fast_tzr · World Chat Champion Joined: 02 Jul 2005 Karma :

The Old Geeza · Back in my day... Joined: 25 May 2005 Karma :

mchaggis · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2004 Karma :

instigator · Super Spammer Joined: 19 Oct 2004 Karma :

Well, usually I'd go with what you said haggis but if the bike is going to be stored away for a good few months and won't be ridden, then wd40 on the brakes shouldn't cause any problems.

Because it is easy enough to get off (in my own opinion it is anyway).

Important this is to: RINSE/SCRUB IT OFF WHEN YOU WANT TO RIDE IT. Laughing

The Old Geeza · Back in my day... Joined: 25 May 2005 Karma :

mchaggis · World Chat Champion Joined: 10 May 2004 Karma :

Fair dos.

The way I read his question, he was riding over the winter, in which case oil and brakes is a contract with the undertakers. For storage, I can't see too many problems, so long as you don't forget that you did it.
____________________
I must not be a troll...
Mmmm, Guinness
Discovering the delights of Hammerite and a 3/4" brush. Very Happy

colin1 · Captain Safety Joined: 17 Feb 2005 Karma :

i dont think discs rusting over winter is a problem, as the rust will just be removed by the pads when its next used
____________________
colin1 is officially faster than god

gavking · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 23 Feb 2005 Karma :

sorry maybe I wasn't clear. I DO intend to ride over the winter because i cant afford a second bike. So i'm after tips for saving paint and metalwork from the nastiness of salt and grit n the other shit they throw around these days.

Gav.
____________________
XJR400R, Ohlins Shocks, Brembo brakes all round, Full Digital dash, Cockpit fairing, twin lamp headlight. Lookin' Good!

gavking · Borekit Bruiser Joined: 23 Feb 2005 Karma :

spitfire · Trackday Trickster Joined: 05 Jul 2005 Karma :

Obvious, but ensure you let the bike warm up and remember that the tyres will take longer to warm. If the bike is water cooled ensure the antifreeze is at the correct gravity, if not top it up. Check the oil and keep the petrol topped up.

If you are not using it for a few days, charge the battery.

Try and keep the bike warm, its not nice sitting on a frost covered seat in the morning, cover it in blankets or nick the duvet from the spare room, I'm sure the missus wont mind Wink

Don’t forget yourself, warm dry kit is a must and ensure you have a good breakfast before you go. If it's really cold I use my skiing kit such as socks and thermals.

Oh and don’t be a hero, unless you have to don’t ride in ice or snow (although snow can be fun on a dirt bike) take the car, train, bus or get a lift.

Cheers

Mrs Kickstart · Brolly Dolly Joined: 06 Apr 2004 Karma :

Hi,

Consider some Fork Gaiters I had some on the GPZ which was used all year and really did seam to help.

How many miles / how far do you go ?

I have fitted a scotoiler to my ZZR which so far is working.

WD is an essential buy (but not for the brakes if your riding it).

Just do what you can to keep the salt off.

Also crash bungs just in case

Regards
Charlotte
(who is usually to lazy to do the above)

DAF · Trackday Trickster Joined: 25 Jul 2005 Karma :

I've heard Finnegan's waxoyl is recommended as a good bike protector for all weather riding.

Anyone here used it or have any idea where to buy it? Did a Google but didn't come up with much.

Cheers
____________________
2005 Yam Fazer (FZ6-S)

mrchips · World Chat Champion Joined: 05 Mar 2004 Karma :

Best thing is to grease everything that can corrode. Don't wipe the grease off untill spring.
____________________
Northern Irish? www.nibikers.com