Ensure Year-Round Safety and Avoid Spring Injuries by Winterizing Your Motorcycle

Winter has settled in for the long haul, and as we do our best to stay warm, motorcyclists across the province face the question of how to best store their ride until spring. As any rider will tell you, it’s never fun to pack up your rig, but knowing how to do so properly can be a key factor when it comes to extending the life of your motorcycle, as well as protecting yourself when spring comes.

At James H. Brown and Associates, we know that the best way to avoid an injury is to plan ahead and know how to prevent accidents before they happen. Motorcycle accidents are a leading cause of injuries and road fatalities in Alberta, making it essential for riders to have the resources they need to stay safe on the road.

Below, we’ll cover some of the most important factors to be aware of when storing your motorcycle for winter, as well as how James H. Brown and Associates can assist those suffering from personal injuries related to motorcycle accidents. Read on to learn more.

Why Winterizing Your Motorcycle Matters

Albertans were treated to a particularly warm transition from Summer to Fall this past year, with high temperatures lasting well into mid-late October across the province. This means that motorcyclists had extra time to hit the streets, and many may have missed their optimal chance to winterize their bikes before the snow hit. Winterization is important when it comes to protecting your motorcycle from damage caused by the cold, as well as making sure it’s safe to ride for as many years as possible. Failing to adequately winterize your motorcycle can lead to significant issues come spring and summer, including:

• Rotted or cracked tires
• Extensive battery damage
• Rodent infestations
• Fuel deposits
• Cracked plastic/grips
• Bad oil consistency
• Dry chains or sprockets

What to Do

While there may be specific details you need to account for your motorcycle, generally speaking, the following should be taken care of when storing your bike for the winter:

Storage

Storage is one of the most essential components to keep your bike safe during the colder months. Whether you use your home garage or an off-site storage facility, ensure your chosen spot is dry, warm, and provides adequate protection from the elements.

(Pre) Spring Cleaning

Before you put your bike away for the winter, it’s important to give a little TLC and scrub off any dirt, salt and grime that may have accumulated during the riding season. This will help protect against corrosion and keep things looking their best for spring.

Keep up with Maintenance

If you’re due for servicing, take your bike in and get things inspected/remedied before storage. Key maintenance points include changing your oil and filter, lubing up moving parts and tending to any existing issues as soon as possible.

Maintain Your Tires

Leaving your bike in the same spot for a prolonged period can lead to flat spots on your tire that pose a risk regarding traction and manoeuvrability. Investing in a motorcycle stand can help to eliminate this problem, as can rolling your bike back and forth every few weeks. If you’re storing your motorcycle in a location you don’t plan to visit frequently, you can also place a piece of plywood or carpet beneath to minimize the damage caused by staying stationary.

Ease Back into Riding

Even though spring may feel a long way off (cold winters can seem to drag on forever!), it’s important to set yourself up for success before the riding season. Check your safety gear (helmets, gloves, goggles, etc.), book your de-winterizing appointment, and remember to take it slow when getting back on the road. Road and weather conditions can change rapidly, and sometimes waiting the extra week can make all the difference in avoiding an accident.

What to Do if You’re Injured

Even the most experienced riders can find themselves facing the reality of dealing with a serious personal injury on the road. If you are ever injured while riding, it’s important to know your rights and to be prepared to protect yourself when it matters most for a smooth recovery. Seek medical attention immediately and contact an injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you have the representation you need for the best outcome possible.

At James H. Brown and Associates, we know that life-altering accidents can present motorcyclists with the sudden challenge of expensive treatment and new obstacles in their day-to-day life. Our team offers over 250 years of combined injury law experience and is dedicated to supporting you and your loved ones through every step of your motorcycle accident claim, receiving justice and compensation, and getting back on the road to recovery.

If you or someone you love are experiencing pain and dealing with injuries from a motorcycle accident, James H. Brown and Associates is here to help. Contact us today to set up your free, no-obligation consultation.