Parking the bike for weeks or months

What you need

• A breathable bike cover
• Chain lube and a tyre pressure gauge

Steps

1. Wash and dry the bike so dirt and moisture do not sit on the paint and metal.
2. Fill the fuel tank. A full tank leaves less room for moisture and rust inside it.
3. Lube the chain and set the tyre pressure to the manual figure.
4. Disconnect the battery's negative terminal, or ask someone to charge it from time to time.
5. Park on the centre stand in a dry, covered place and use the breathable cover.
6. Before riding again: reconnect the battery, check tyres, brakes, oil and lights, and ride gently at first.

Common mistakes

• Wrapping the bike in a plastic sheet. It traps moisture and causes rust.
• Starting it for a minute every few days just to idle. It builds moisture without charging the battery. Ride it properly or leave it.
• Leaving the key or papers with the bike.

When to go to a mechanic

• Rats have nested or chewed wires. Rat damage is common in stored bikes; get the wiring checked.
• The bike will not start after storage, or runs rough. Old fuel or a dead battery is likely.

More guides

• Starting the bike on cold winter mornings
• Your free services explained: 1st, 2nd and 3rd
• A fair workshop bill, and how to spot upselling
• Genuine vs duplicate parts: how to tell
• Fuel and mileage habits that save money