News DH Superbikes

If your bike will sit unused over winter, a bit of preparation now will make spring much easier and help avoid costly problems like corrosion, flat batteries and stale fuel. Always check your owner's handbook for model-specific advice, as some bikes have particular needs.

Why storage matters

A bike that sits for months is not resting, it is slowly deteriorating. Moisture causes corrosion, fuel degrades, batteries discharge and tyres can develop flat spots. A few hours of preparation can prevent a bill in spring.

1. Wash and dry it properly

Road salt and grime cause corrosion. Wash the bike, dry it completely and make sure it is dry in the hidden places too, such as around the swingarm, under the seat and around the exhaust. Use a leaf blower or microfibre towels to get water out of crevices.

2. Protect the metal

Lightly lubricate the chain and use a corrosion protector on exposed metal, bare aluminium and fasteners. Keep any spray off the brake discs, pads and tyres. Our chain maintenance guide explains how to clean and lubricate properly before storage.

3. Look after the fuel

Fuel left standing can degrade. Many riders fill the tank to limit condensation and add a fuel stabiliser, running the engine briefly so it reaches the system. Follow the stabiliser's instructions. If your bike has a fuel tap, check your handbook on whether to turn it off.

4. Consider the oil

Used oil can contain contaminants that are best not left sitting in the engine for months. If a service is due, consider having it done before storage so the bike sits with fresh oil. Check your service schedule.

5. Look after the battery

A battery left to go flat can be damaged. Use a smart battery charger or maintainer, or remove the battery and store it somewhere cool and dry, charging it every so often. Disconnect it if the bike will sit for a long time without a charger.

6. Support the tyres

Check and set the correct tyre pressures from your handbook. If you can, use paddock stands to take the weight off the tyres, or move the bike a little now and then so the same part of the tyre does not carry the weight all winter. See our tyre guide.

7. Choose a good spot

A dry, ventilated garage is best. Use a breathable bike cover, not a plastic sheet that traps moisture. Think about security too: a ground anchor, disc lock and chain are worth using, and check your insurance conditions. Read our guide to motorcycle security.

8. Protect against pests

Mice and other pests can chew wiring and nest in airboxes and exhausts. Block exhaust and airbox openings with something removable and visible (and leave yourself a reminder to take it out), and check for signs of nesting before you start the bike in spring.

9. Check your insurance and paperwork

Check whether your policy covers a stored bike and what is required. Keep your documents safe, and note your MOT expiry date so it does not catch you out in spring.

10. Bringing it back in spring

• Check tyres, brakes, lights, chain, oil and coolant levels.
• Check the battery and charge.
• Remove any exhaust or airbox blockers and check for pests.
• Check for fuel or oil leaks and fluid levels before you start it.
• Check the MOT date and book it if it is due. See our MOT guide.
• Take a gentle first ride and test the brakes early.

Frequently asked questions

Should I start the bike during winter? Short idling runs can create condensation without fully warming the engine. A proper ride when conditions allow is better. Follow your handbook.

Do I need a stand? It helps, but it is not essential if you move the bike now and then.

Can I ride in winter instead? Yes, with care. See our wet and cold weather riding tips.

Need a service or MOT before the new season? Ask the DH Superbikes team.