Winter preperation?

J741 · Posted: September 15, 2005, 5:05 pm Post subject: Winter preperation?

It's been a long time since I had a motorbike, and I plan to store my 1970 XS650 in a friend's garage during the winter, where I can work on it. My friend mentioned that his garage is not heated, and I should drain the bike's oil and brake fluid to prevent damage as a result of freezing winter temperatures. Is this a reasonable thing to do, or does it really matter? What winter preperation should I take with this bike if any (other than keeping the snow off)?

- James.

Jack · Full Member Joined: Mar 15, 2005 Posts: 411

Are we not starting alittle early for a winter storage question,EH! Mr. Green

Keep her on the center stand to unload the tires,remove air filters to stuff rags in the inlets to keep those little Critters....OOOOOOOOOut. Keep the oil in but maybe freshen it up with new and as for the brake fluid keep it in,it does'nt freeze up to my knowledge..............Jack

grizld1 · Posted: September 15, 2005, 7:55 pm Post subject: Re: Winter preperation?

Take a look at the location, Jack; winter started in mid-August for J741! You might unhook the battery and keep the charge up. It doesn't take long for sulfation to start. A little shot of fogging oil in the cylinders can be good insurance too.

dutch · Posted: September 16, 2005, 11:31 am Post subject: Re: Winter preperation?

My 1981 650 owner's manual suggests dumping out all of the gas, pour in 1 cup of motor oil and slosh it all around to coat the inside of the tank to prevent rust. In the spring, dump out the oil, rinse with gas(be careful!) or maybe kerosene and then refill. Drain the gas out of the carburetors and install inline filters in the spring. Be sure your chain is freshly lubricated or take it off, clean it by soaking it in kerosene and soak in a pan of motor oil for the winter. Wax all of the paint and chrome to prevent pitting. Check for any rust that has started,even hidden places like under the seat and around the frame and take care of it before the pitting gets too bad. If you have a 1970, you have a real classic to preserve! Is it in good shape and running condition?

grizld1 · Posted: September 16, 2005, 1:52 pm Post subject: Re: Winter preperation?

Right you are, Dutch--today's fuels turn to varnish in a hurry! I forgot what real winter is like; we get breaks from the cold in Southern Illinois that bikes can be kept pretty fresh year-round.

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