Why do batteries die on bikes that stand unused, and how do you protect them? A pre-winter checklist.
The most common problem on motorcycles left standing over winter is a flat battery. Alarms, clocks and the ECU draw a small current even with the engine off.
To protect your battery
- If the bike will stand for more than two weeks, disconnect the battery or use a smart battery maintainer.
- Riding for 15–20 minutes once a week does more good than just idling the engine.
- Clean any corrosion off the terminals.
Pre-winter checklist
- Change the engine oil (acids in old oil corrode the engine from inside)
- Fill the tank – an empty tank rusts inside
- Check tyre pressures
- Lubricate the chain and store the bike dry and covered
A battery test takes just a few minutes at our workshop, and we check your charging system free of charge.