When your child expresses an interest in riding a dirt bike, your first thought may not be about the bike itself but instead their overall safety. You probably introduced them to their first bike during the warmer months, but now that we’re facing chilly weather, head on, it’s time to start thinking about bike maintenance. In this article, we’ll discuss five excellent tips for cold weather storage to help you ensure your rider can keep their bike in the best possible condition.
Thoroughly Wash the Bike
A child will never forget the fun they had during their dirt bike riding season, but eventually, the mud, grime, and buildup need to come off. When the season ends, teach them how to thoroughly wash their bike.
This cleaning process will protect both the cosmetic appeal and the working components. It’s essential to remove any dirt to ensure parts remain viable for the long haul.
Stabilize the Fuel Lines
You will learn many things as you go, especially as your child becomes more familiar with their gear and the sport. There are many things to consider before getting your child into the sport, some of which are the mechanical things you’ll need to maintain—specifically, the fuel lines.
Stabilizing the fuel lines before cold weather storage is vital. You want to fill the tank to deter rust or corrosion, ensuring no water can build up inside the tank. Add a fuel stabilizer once it’s full, then run the engine for a few minutes to evenly disburse the stabilizer through the lines.
Care for the Battery
Caring for the battery is another element that catches some by surprise. Failure to remove the battery could result in damaged cells and a costly repair bill next season. Remove the battery before storage and charge it in a warm, dry location. Be mindful of charging rates; an overcharged battery can fail as fast as an undercharged one.
Maintain the Antifreeze
Similar to stabilizing the fuel lines, another essential tip for cold-weather dirt bike storage is maintaining the antifreeze system. This effort will prevent ice from building up in the radiator. Fill the antifreeze tank to the top with an antifreeze designed for your machine. You also want to factor in the anti-corrosion properties for an added layer of security in freezing temperatures.
Properly Store the Bike
The location you physically store the dirt bike matters. You want to ensure it is in a safe, dry place to avoid degrading the bike’s materials, framework, and tires. Storing the dirt bike in the garage or shed is more beneficial than under a tarp outside. If your child expresses exceptional interest in the sport, you may consider a climate-controlled storage facility to protect the investment long-term.
Catering to your child’s interests and tackling a new activity can be a project you do together. Remember, you’re both learning, but only you’re investing. Follow the proper storage procedures for the dirt bike to protect the money you spend.