Winter in Montana is upon us, and it’s time to start thinking about storing your bike. Whether you’re an experienced rider like me or just starting, I wanted to share how I prepare my bike for the long winter ahead.
We all know the basics — keeping our bikes on a charger to maintain the battery, not just between rides, but all winter long. One of the most important things to remember is the type of battery you have.
Most bikes come with a standard AGM battery, but with lithium-ion batteries becoming more common, the type of charger you use really matters. I recently installed a lithium-ion battery on my 2024 Road Glide, and it requires a special charger made for that type. Fortunately, I have a charger that works for both AGM and lithium-ion batteries.
Check Fluids and Fuel
Battery care is important, but it’s not the only thing to focus on. Check all your fluid levels and make sure they’re topped off before storage. Add fuel stabilizer to your tank to prevent water buildup, and consider changing your oil before you park the bike.
I put a lot of miles on my bike each summer with my motorcycle club — we ride to several events every year. My new 2024 Road Glide already has about 7,000 miles in just the first year. I did my 1,000-mile break-in service and my 5K service just a month ago, so my fluids are fresh, but I still double-check everything before winter.
Service and Warranty
Since I have a three-year service plan with my dealership, they handle my routine maintenance. I also have an extended service plan that covers the engine and electronics — something that gives me peace of mind with all the technology on these newer bikes.
I know a lot of riders hesitate to buy these plans, but if you’ve ever had a big repair bill, you know it’s worth considering. I keep my service documents and card in my tour pack, where I can see them when I open it, so that I don’t forget I have them.
Tires and Storage Setup
Before parking your bike, check your tires for wear and air pressure. I’ll be replacing my rear tire early in the spring since it’s about due. When you do buy new tires, take the time to find ones that give you good mileage and handle well in the turns.
If you can, get your bike up off the ground. I use a lift to keep the tires from sitting on the shop floor, which helps prevent flat spots over the winter. Depending on how long “Old Man Winter” sticks around, it might be late May before we can get out for that first ride, so it’s worth the effort.
Cover and Protect
Cover your bike while it’s parked — especially if it’s outside or stored in a barn. You can also buy exhaust covers to keep pests from nesting in your mufflers.
Check your belt or chain and oil it if needed to prevent rust. I live in a rural area, so I also put out a few rodent repellents just to be safe. I’m not sure if they really work, but I’ve never had mice make a nest in my bikes, so I keep doing it.
Clean and Wax
Before you park the bike for good, give it a good wash to remove bugs and road grime. You can also wax it for extra protection, so it looks great when spring arrives.
When the snow melts and the roads finally clear, you’ll be ready to fire it up and ride without any worries.
Stay safe, stay warm, and here’s to another great riding season once winter finally lets go.
Even though winter means parking the bike for a while, the best riders know that motorcycle care doesn’t stop with storage. Staying ahead on maintenance keeps your machine reliable and ready for every season — not just when the snow melts.
Riding year-round keeps your skills sharp and your spirit alive. But your bike needs steady care to stay safe and ready in every season. Learn how to protect your investment, extend your bike’s lifespan, and ride with confidence no matter the weather.
Read the full guide: Year-Round Motorcycle Maintenance Essentials
Ride Smarter, Ride Safer
The Montana Motorcycle Safety Foundation is here to support you with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to ride with confidence.
You can take the first step toward becoming a safer, more confident rider today. Our purpose is to educate and empower you with practical insights, tools, and resources that help you improve every time you ride. The mindset shift starts here—and every mile ahead will feel better because of it.
Ready to sharpen your skills?
Explore our list of MMSF blogs and ride with confidence.
