Preparing Your Motorcycle for Spring

If your motorcycle sat in storage the last several months, it's not ready for spring riding just yet. There are some important maintenance steps to tackle first.

Here at Bartels' Harley-Davidson, we strive to make your life easier. We created the following spring motorcycle guide.

For more maintenance tips or to shop for motorcycles for sale, visit our dealership. We are located in Marina Del Rey, California, and also serve those in Malibu and Santa Monica.

Tend to the Battery

If the battery is currently disconnected from the motorcycle and connected to a battery tender, it should still be charged. All you need is to connect the battery back up to the motorcycle.

If the battery is still on your motorcycle, it is likely drained. Give it a charge before your first spring motorcycle ride.

Check the Oil

Insert a dipstick, wipe it off, re-insert it, and inspect the oil. Make sure it is a gold/amber color and not black, which is hard on the engine. If the oil has metallic flecks in it, this indicates some internal damage that needs to be inspected by a professional.

Check the Brake Fluid

Position your motorcycle fully upright, then look at the fluid levels. If your motorcycle has brake fluid reservoirs in the front and rear, remember to check them both. If the fluid level is low, be sure to top it off.

Test the Lights

Light bulbs can burn out over time. Get someone to help you test your motorcycle's lights. Turn on the turn signals, headlight, and brake lights. Your buddy can tell you whether any lights are dim or burnt out.

Check the Tires

Start by measuring the tread. The tread gets worn down over time and eventually gets too low to maintain proper traction with the road's surface. Your owner's manual should let you know at what level this happens.

Next, measure the tire air pressure. Overinflated and underinflated tires can cause problems, such as reduced fuel efficiency and increased chance of a blowout. Compare the measurement against the manufacturer's recommendations and adjust as needed.

Third, look for signs of damage. Some damage can be repaired and some will require a tire replacement.

Test the Brakes

Go on a low-speed motorcycle ride and test the brakes. If dust settled on the brake pads during storage, there may be a little bit of squeaking. But grinding or slipping is a red flag and suggests that a visit to a service department is in order.

Want more maintenance tips? Want to shop for motorcycles for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at Bartels' Harley-Davidson are here to help. Reach out or stop by our dealership in Marina Del Rey, California. We also proudly serve those in Malibu and Santa Monica, California.