1. Winterizing - winter break for motorcycle and moped
Winterizing a motorcycle or moped serves to preserve its substance and value. However, "winterizing" does not mean that the vehicle is simply parked in the cellar or garage; rather, some preparatory measures are required.
Inspect for defects
At the end of the riding season, the motorcycle or moped should be inspected for defects. If these cannot be repaired yourself, it is advisable to have the necessary work done during the winter months, as many workshops have free capacity then.
Cleaning and care
Before winter storage, the motorcycle or moped should be thoroughly cleaned. Components at risk of corrosion should be treated with a little preservative (spray oil) and rubber parts with a plastic care product. The drive chain should be cleaned and re-greased.
Removing the battery
The battery should be removed and stored in a cool and dry place protected from frost. It is advisable to remove the battery so that the battery terminals are freely accessible, so that the battery can be charged once or twice briefly during the winter break, as self-discharge of the battery usually leads to its permanent damage. With conventional batteries, the acid level should also be checked. If necessary, top up with distilled water to the upper filling level.
Check coolant
The level and concentration of the coolant should be checked and antifreeze topped up if necessary.
Replace engine oil and oil filter
The old engine oil should be drained, the oil filter changed and the engine then filled with fresh oil.
Empty carburettor float chambers
If a carburettor is fitted (i.e. on all models without a fuel injection system), its float chambers should be completely emptied, as even periods of standing for only a few months can lead to deposits on the carburettor jets, requiring extensive repairs. The float chambers can be emptied by closing the fuel tap at the end of the last run and letting the engine continue to run until it dies out on its own. Alternatively, the float chambers can be emptied via the drain plugs with the engine stopped. The petrol which runs off via hoses on the underside of the vehicle is to be collected there and poured into the tank. Then close the drain plugs again.
Fill the tank or empty it?
Motorcycle and moped tanks made of sheet steel should be filled to the top, as this prevents the formation of condensation, which can lead to corrosion. A small amount (approx. two caps) of methylated spirit should be added to the fuel, as this binds any condensation that may occur. If the vehicle has a plastic tank, on the other hand, this should be emptied before winter storage, as components of the fuel could otherwise diffuse through the tank wall during the long rest period.
Relieve the load on the tyres
During the long winter standstill period, the load on the wheels should be relieved to a large extent in order to prevent deformation. The main stand is sufficient for this (if available), otherwise assembly stands are recommended. For the same reason, the tyre pressure should be increased slightly (by approx. 0.5 bar).
Covering and adjusting the motorcycle
The motorcycle should be parked in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area (e.g. in the cellar or garage) and covered with a blanket. Since condensation can form under the blanket, it is not advisable to use a tarpaulin to cover the motorcycle.
2. What to bear in mind when riding in winter
Apart from snow and ice, motorcycles and mopeds can often be ridden in winter. However, to ensure that winter riding does not cause damage to the machine and remains safe and as enjoyable as possible for the rider, a number of special measures should be taken.
Fit winter tyres if necessary
According to the Road Traffic Act (StVO), all motor vehicles may only be driven in slush, packed snow and black ice with tyres that have an M+S marking (for: "mud and snow") (§ 2 IIIa 1 StVO) and are also colloquially known as "winter tyres".
Add methylated spir its
Even if you continue to ride your motorcycle or moped in winter, you should add a small amount (approx. two caps) of methylated spirits to the fuel, as this binds any condensation that may occur and thus prevents the tank or carburettor from freezing.
Winter care
In winter, road salt and grit in particular are the enemy of every motorcyclist and moped rider. Grit damages the paintwork, and road salt leads to corrosion. After riding, the motorcycle or moped should therefore be washed with a cleaning agent and then rinsed with clear water. Paint care products, rust protection, leather grease and a chain spray should also be used regularly.
Winter accessories
Handlebar gaiters mounted on the handlebars protect the hands from the wet and cold, and a windscreen from the cold wind.
Winter clothing
In winter, the right clothing is particularly important. Thermal underwear and thermal suits are recommended, and a balaclava, neck brace, gloves, kidney belt and boots should also be part of your winter gear. For mopeds, a knee blanket offers additional protection.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/yNaGxHqjOuw | by Ali Inay