Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the places and moments that take our breath away. ---anonymous

With the approach of the holidays and winter you might be thinking about letting your cycle or scooter hibernate for a few months. Even if you aren't planning to give up riding till spring, time has a tendency to slip away, and you may discover that your cycle or scooter has been waiting patiently for too long. Here are a few tips to make sure your ride is ready to go when you are:

1. Keep the fuel fresh. Gasoline breaks down over (not much) time and can be deadly to the fuel system. This problem can easily be prevented by using fuel stabilizer. Add Sta-bil or a similar product according to directions and fill your gas tank up with fresh gasoline.  Ride a short distance to allow the mixture to circulate through the fuel system.  This will keep gasoline from breaking down and turning to varnish over the cold months.
2. Proper maintenance of your battery can prolong its Iife and keep things cranking.
   • If you have a conventional lead acid battery, make sure it's topped off with distilled water. 
   • Keep the battery charged. We recommend using an automatic (or"smart") charger which monitors the battery voltage and will not overcharge the battery, even if it is left plugged in. If your bike does not already have one, consider having an accessory plug port or lead installed. This isn’t expensive, and makes the task of charging your battery simple.
   • If you bike has a canbus system, be sure you you take this into account when charging the battery. We will be happy to explain this to you.  
   • Important -  Avoid the temptation to start the bike up to let it run unattended. It is a bad way to charge the battery, and can damage your engine.
3. Make sure your tires are full of air. If possible get your wheels off the ground; if you have a center stand use it. And don’t forget to check your tire pressures before you begin riding again.
4. When it gets cold outside, wild creatures look for places to stay warm and dry. Never store pet food or bird seed near your bike. Cover the intake to your air box and muffler so as not to invite critters to move in.
5. It is not a bad idea to change the oil now, rather than wait till Spring.
6. Make sure your bike is clean if it is to be left parked for a while. If you park your bike outside, try to get it under a roof or awning, and use a weatherproof cover over it. Even if you park in the garage a dust cover will keep the bike clean.

Following these simple tips will help keep your bike in great condition and may prevent costly repairs.

Please don't hesitate to ask us if you have questions about your bike. If you need information about the products mentioned above,  we keep these items in stock and can help you match them to your budget and needs. 

Scott Esteran, Service Manager