How to Properly Store Your Dirt Bike or ATV for Winter

Winter riding has its place. And we wouldn’t dream of discouraging you from participating in a little arctic adventure, if that’s your preferred cup of tea.

But for many of us living in cold-weather climates, the less we’re exposed to winter’s bitter chill, the better.

If you’re going to store your dirt bike or quad during the winter months, consider these six winterizing tips that can save you money and a few headaches come spring:

1. Wash it

If you’re doing it right, your bike or quad is at least a little dirty. A thorough washing prior to storage gives you the opportunity to inspect your machine for any problems. There are a lot of good cleaning products available. The pre-storage wash is also a good time to coat all of the appropriate parts with a thin layer of oil to prevent rust and corrosion.

If you’re cleaning your dirt bike, pay special attention to your chain. Use a good, grease-cutting cleaner and toothbrush to remove dirt and oil deposits that will have built up. Be sure to spray a light coat of chain lubricant after cleaning. Spin your rear tire to work the lubricant throughout your chain and sprockets.

2. Fill your gas tank and stabilize your fuel

Filling up your gas tank is important. A full steel tank can’t rust and a full plastic tank prevents heavy buildup of condensation. Keeping water out of your engine is always a sound strategy.

Once your tank is full, add your fuel stabilizer. It’s a good idea to run your bike or quad engine for a few minutes to let the treated fuel make its way through your system.

3. Change your oil

No special tricks here. Just change your oil as you normally would. Using good oil is always smart.

4. Charge your battery

Before parking your quad or dirt bike for the winter, remove the battery and connect it to a regulated battery charger in a warm, dry place. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures will drain your battery and can even cause it to crack. It’s important that your charger regulates your battery charge, because an overcharged battery can become useless and even explode under the right conditions.

5. Fill up on antifreeze

To keep ice from forming in your radiator, you will want to check your antifreeze levels and make sure it is filled to the top. You should use antifreeze with anti-corrosive properties that is rated to protect your vehicle even in freezing temperatures.

6. Store on a bike or ATV stand, if practical

If you have the room, consider removing the wheels and tires and resting your ATV or dirt bike on a stand. In addition to preventing possible flat spots on your tires, it will take some weight off of your suspension and help prevent premature wear.