Like most bikers, you can’t wait to get out on the open road and learn how to winterize your Harley-Davidson to enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous scenery of the winter months.
Of course, riding in inclement weather can be extremely hazardous if you don’t take the proper precautions beforehand.
If you want to ensure your bike runs smoothly even in freezing temperatures and snow-covered roads, take the following steps before heading out on your next ride.
If you plan to take your Harley Davidson out onto the streets this winter, ensure that you take the proper precautions to keep it in tip-top shape when the temperature drops below freezing.
Because winter weather can be unpredictable, this guide on winterizing your Harley-Davidson will help you stay safe and prepared as you cruise down the roads alongside other drivers who may not be so prepared!
1. Clean the Outside
When learning how to winterize your Harley-Davidson, cleaning your bike is one of the most important tasks during a cold-weather motorcycle storage season.
Protecting your paint and chrome will help prevent rust and cracking that can develop over time.
Disassemble components such as the fenders, saddlebags, mirrors, fork leg protectors, and exhaust pipes before storing them inside.
Also, brush or scrape off any heavy grime, dust, or leaves collected on the outside surfaces with a high-pressure washer or using baking soda and water to loosen stubborn dirt or grease spots.
Wash off loose dirt or grime with water and soap. Rinse away the soapy residue with clean water.
Dry thoroughly before reassembling components on the bike and moving indoors for the winter months ahead!
2. Wash and Wax
It may seem counterintuitive, but washing and waxing your bike before winter starts is a great way to maintain its current look.
You’ll want to remove any bugs or dirt with a pressure washer and apply any necessary coatings for rust prevention.
Keep up with this after each ride, as it’ll keep your paint looking newer for longer. Invest in some wax or coating of your choice for the final touch.
They provide better protection during winter months when salt is used on roads. That way, you’ll be ready to hop on and start going once the cold weather’s gone!
3. Inspect the Battery
Before inspecting the battery, discharge the surface of it by turning on all the lights and running the engine for five minutes.
Check both sides of the terminals to see if any corrosion or rusting may indicate a problem with charging.
If there is, you must have your battery cleaned before it can be reinstalled.
Finally, take your digital voltmeter and place one lead on each terminal, ensuring they are clean and dry before touching them with the other lead.
This will let you know how much voltage your bike has in its current state.
4. Securely Store the Bike
If you are still on how to winterize your Harley-Davidson, secure the bike in a safe place. Consider whether the bike needs to be inside or outside a garage, shed, or home.
The more secure your bike is in these three locations, the better it will be protected from environmental damage, such as rain and snow, that may get into small cracks and openings in your vehicle.
When storing your motorcycle outside, consider doing so in an enclosed storage shed or garage with walls at least six feet high that extend outward at least 18 inches past your cycle’s handlebars on either side (side or end) to protect it from harsh weather conditions.
To prevent water accumulation while riding off-road in wet environments, use tarps placed on top of floorboards and equipment around the motorcycle when parked overnight or during inclement weather.
5. Check the Tire Pressure
Your tires are essential to ensure you get anywhere without any issues.
You should check your tire pressure at least once a month and keep it in between the range of 7-30 PSI, so with winter coming up, you’ll want to make sure it’s high enough for the winter weather conditions.
Also, ensure your tires have adequate tread on them and no tears or holes in them.
When it comes to snowstorms, always stay on main roads and try not to stop since hitting slippery patches can lead to your bike losing traction and being unable to start again.
6. Top Off Fluids
Motorcycle tires and fluids should be checked before every ride. Start by filling your gas tank to the top with fresh, clean fuel.
It’s important not to let it run dry because the moisture from inside the tank begins to rust its surface once that happens.
Inspect your motorcycle tires for signs of wear and tear, like cracks or unusual tread patterns, and ensure they’re filled with the proper air pressure for optimum handling performance.
Add winter protection gear like windshield cleaning fluid if you plan to ride in the rain.
Also, a petroleum jelly-based product to help prevent wind chill or heated grips if snow is on the ground.
Conclusion
Now that the snow and ice are starting to fall, it’s time to know how to winterize your Harley-Davidson.
Make sure your Harley is ready to hit the road when the weather clears up again.
The winter months can be hard on your bike, and any damage you may sustain can ruin your whole riding season if you don’t prepare beforehand.
This guide will help you winterize your Harley to be ready to ride quickly!
