Top 10 Tips to PROPERLY Store Your Dirt Bike

As a dirt bike owner, the off-season can be a crucial time for your prized possession.

While it’s tempting to just park your bike in the garage and forget about it until the next ride, proper storage is key to ensuring its longevity and performance.

From cleaning to security, each step plays a vital role.

Let's dive into the top 10 tips for storing your dirt bike correctly.

1. Clean and Protect

After a thrilling ride on your motocross bike, cleaning it thoroughly is crucial.

This step is not just about removing mud and dirt; it’s about protecting your dirt bike from the elements like moisture and sunlight.

Use a specialised cleaner and pay extra attention to mechanical parts where dirt accumulates

Cleaning Process

Before tucking your bike away, give it a thorough clean. This isn’t just about aesthetics; removing dirt and grime prevents corrosion and keeps your bike in top condition.

Use a gentle cleaner and a soft brush to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Applying Protection

After cleaning, a coat of corrosion inhibitor or light oil on metal surfaces is a smart move.

It’s like a protective blanket for your bike, warding off rust and keeping everything running smoothly.

Proper Drying Techniques (Under 1. Clean and Protect)

After cleaning your dirt bike, proper drying is essential to prevent rust and corrosion.

Start by using a microfiber cloth or chamois to gently blot and wipe down the bike, absorbing excess water.

Pay special attention to crevices where water might accumulate. For hard-to-reach areas, consider using compressed air or a leaf blower on a low setting to remove trapped moisture.

Ensure the bike is completely dry before applying protective coatings or storing it.

2. Change Fluids

Changing the oil and filter is essential, especially if you plan to store your bike in a garage, shed, or storage unit.

If you're not planning to ride your bike for a while, consider adding a fuel stabiliser to the gas tank to prevent fuel degradation.

Oil Change

Old oil can gather contaminants, which isn't what you want sitting in your engine for months.

Changing the oil and filter before storage is a proactive step in maintenance.

Fuel System Maintenance

For the fuel system, options vary. Draining the gas tank is one approach, but if that sounds like a hassle, a fuel stabiliser can be a lifesaver.

It keeps the fuel fresh and ready for your next adventure.

Lubrication

Lubricating the bike's pivot points, cables, and levers is a must. U

se high-quality lubricating oil to ensure that these parts remain functional and protected from weather conditions when stored inside or outside.

Key Lubrication Points

Pivot points, cables, and levers – these are your bike's high-movement areas.

A bit of lubrication here can prevent rust and ensure they remain in good working order.

Choosing the Right Lubricant

Not all lubricants are created equal. Select one that's suited for your bike and the conditions it’ll face in storage.

Related: 5 SURPRISING Factors That Affect Dirt Bike Longevity

4. Tyre Care

When storing your bike, whether it’s a KTM or any other off-road bike, maintaining the correct tyre pressure is crucial.

If you're storing your bike inside the house or in a basement, make sure the tyres don’t lose pressure over time.

Tyre Pressure Management

Flat spots on tyres are a real nuisance. Keeping them inflated to the recommended pressure is crucial. It’s a small effort that pays off big time.

Storage Tips

If possible, store the bike off the ground. This little trick can significantly extend your tyres' life and save you from future headaches.

Storage Solutions for Tyres

For optimal tyre care during storage, consider using a stand or piece of wood.

This elevates the tyres, preventing them from sitting on cold concrete or damp surfaces, which can cause damage over time.

For those looking for a more structured solution, tyre racks are a great option.

Companies like RB Components offer wall-mounted motorcycle tyre racks, made from durable materials like aluminum, to keep tyres up and out of the way, saving floor space and maintaining tyre integrity.

5. Battery Maintenance

For long-term storage, especially during bike winter months, remove the battery from your motocross bike and store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a garage or storage unit.

A battery charger can be used to maintain its charge

Battery Removal and Storage

Batteries dislike being ignored. Remove it and store it in a cool, dry place.

Or, keep it on a trickle charger to maintain the charge and keep it healthy.

Using a Trickle Charger

A trickle charger is like a lifeline for your battery. It keeps it from dying a slow, sad death during the off-season.

Battery Health Check Tips

Before and after storing your dirt bike, it's crucial to check the health of your battery.

Use a multimeter to check the voltage and ensure it's within the recommended range.

If you notice a significant drop in voltage or any signs of corrosion on the terminals, it might be time to replace the battery.

Regular checks will help you catch any issues early, ensuring your bike is ready to go when you are.

Related: How Long Does It Take to Charge a Motorcycle Battery?

6. Cover the Bike

To protect your dirt bike from dust and moisture, cover it with a breathable material.

This is particularly important if storing outside or in an area exposed to the elements.

Avoid plastic covers as they can trap moisture and cause damage.

Choosing the Right Cover

A breathable cover is your bike's best friend. It keeps the dust off while letting moisture escape, unlike plastic covers that can trap moisture and cause more harm than good.

Avoiding Plastic Covers

Plastic might seem like a good idea, but it’s a no-go for bike storage. It’s like wrapping your bike in a sauna – not exactly ideal for preserving it.

7. Storage Location

Choose a storage location for your bike that is dry and well-ventilated.

Whether you're storing it in a shed, garage, or a specialised motorcycle storage unit, the key is to protect it from extreme temperatures and moisture.

Ideal Storage Conditions

Find a spot that’s dry and well-ventilated. Your bike doesn’t like humidity and extreme temperature changes any more than you do.

Temperature and Light Considerations

Direct sunlight and wild temperature swings are not friends of your dirt bike. A consistent, cool environment is what you’re aiming for.

DIY Storage Space Solutions

Creating a suitable storage space for your dirt bike doesn't have to be expensive or complicated.

DIY enthusiasts can consider building a simple, dedicated space in their garage or shed.

Utilise vertical space by installing shelves or hooks for gear and accessories.

For those with limited space, consider a MotoCabin Motorcycle Shed Storage Solution, which provides a compact, secure, and weather-resistant option.

8. Maintenance Schedule

Creating a maintenance schedule for your dirt bike during the winter months is essential.

This includes regular checks to ensure the engine oil is fresh and the fuel stabiliser in the gas tank is doing its job.

Creating a Schedule

Even in storage, your bike needs some TLC. Set up a maintenance schedule – it’s a great way to keep everything in check and avoid surprises.

Periodic Checks

Occasional check-ins and maybe even starting the engine periodically can keep your bike from feeling neglected.

Think of it as a quick hello to ensure everything’s still in order.

Long-Term Storage Considerations

Storing your dirt bike for extended periods, like six months or more, requires additional considerations.

It's advisable to periodically rotate the tyres to prevent flat spots, even if the bike is elevated.

Also, consider a fuel additive to prevent the fuel from degrading over time.

For long-term battery care, disconnecting and storing the battery in a cool, dry place is recommended, using a trickle charger to maintain its charge.

9. Security Measures

Locks and Alarms

If your storage space is shared or less secure, beefing up security is wise.

Locks, alarms, or even a heavy-duty chain can deter any unwelcome attention.

Additional Security Tips

Extra security measures might seem like overkill, but they can give you peace of mind, which is priceless.

10. Documentation

Record Keeping

Keep track of what you’ve done. A log of maintenance and treatments is like a diary for your bike. It helps you pick up right where you left off.

Preparation for Retrieval

When it’s time to hit the trails again, your records will make the transition from storage to adventure smooth and hassle-free.

Pre-Storage Checklist

Before storing your dirt bike, especially during the winter, ensure you follow this checklist:

• Clean the bike thoroughly, including removing any mud, dirt, or debris to protect it from the elements.
• Dry the bike completely to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Change the oil and filter; consider adding a fuel stabiliser.
• Lubricate pivot points, cables, and levers with quality lubricating oil..
• Inflate tyres to the recommended pressure and store the bike off the ground.
• Remove and store the battery; use a trickle charger if available.
• Cover the bike with a breathable cover.
• Choose a storage location that's dry, cool, and well-ventilated.
• Implement security measures such as locks or alarms.
• Keep a record of all maintenance and treatments applied.

By following these additional steps, you can ensure your dirt bike stays in prime condition during its off-season storage, ready for your next riding adventure.

FAQs

How often should I check on my dirt bike during long-term storage?

It's advisable to check on your dirt bike every 4-6 weeks during long-term storage. This includes inspecting the bike for any signs of rust or corrosion, verifying tyre pressure, and ensuring the battery charge is maintained if it's connected to a trickle charger. These checks are crucial for keeping the bike in good condition and ready for use when the riding season resumes.

Can I store my dirt bike with fuel in the tank?

Storing a dirt bike with fuel in the tank is not recommended unless a fuel stabiliser is added. Over time, fuel can degrade and cause damage to the fuel system. If you choose to leave fuel in the tank, make sure to add a high-quality fuel stabiliser to prevent this degradation. This is especially important if the bike will be stored for several months.

Is it necessary to change the oil before storing the dirt bike if it hasn’t been used much?

Yes, it's recommended to change the oil before storage, even if the bike hasn’t been used extensively. Old oil can contain contaminants that may cause damage to the engine over time. Changing the oil ensures that your bike is stored with fresh, clean oil, reducing the risk of engine issues when you start it again.

What's the best way to protect my dirt bike from theft during storage?

To protect your dirt bike from theft, use a combination of security measures. This includes locking it with a high-quality chain and padlock, using a ground anchor if possible, and storing the bike in a secure, locked facility such as a garage or shed. Additionally, consider installing an alarm system or a motion sensor light in the storage area for added security.