How to Prep Your Dirt Bike for Winter Storage
Dirt bikes are one of the most popular sports among children, and it changes fast when kids grow with age. Do you how to prepare your dirt bike for winter storage?
Clean your dirt bike thoroughly
Dirt, condensation, and fluctuating temperatures can always form corrosion. The easiest way is to put motorbikes always clean and buffed. To clean motorbikes for kids, you might need water, a bucket or hose, a brush, a degreaser, or soap specifically designed for motorcycles, and a rag or towel. Start by rinsing off any loose dirt and debris with a hose or bucket of water. Use the brush to scrub any stubborn dirt or grime from the frame, wheels, and other parts of the bike. After that, you need to dry the bike with a rag or towel to prevent water spots. Some people like to leave the wax on over the winter and buff it off in the spring. This provides a nice protective layer of wax over your paint for the winter.
Change the oil and oil filter
Start by warming up the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil, making the dirt bike easier to drain. Then take the new oil filter and lubricate the seal with a small amount of clean oil, install the new filter by hand, and then use the oil filter wrench to tighten it.
Start the engine and let it idle for a minute, then turn it off and check the oil level again and adjust if necessary. Properly dispose of the used oil and filter in the end. Remember, be sure to consult your dirt bike's owner's manual for any specific instructions or recommendations regarding oil type and capacity, and be sure to check all other vital fluids like coolant, brake, and clutch fluids.
Check the fuel system
Locate the fuel tank and remove the gas cap to inspect the tank for any debris or water. The longer a fuel tank sits, and the larger the volume of trapped air, the more havoc can be wrought on your fuel system. Then start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to ensure that the fuel is flowing properly and that there are no leaks. It is important to note that these are general instructions, and your dirt bike may have specific instructions for checking the fuel system.
Check the tires and inflate them to the proper pressure
Use a tire pressure gauge to check the air pressure in each tire. The recommended tire pressure for your gas-powered dirt bike should be listed in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the side of the tire. If the tires are under-inflated, use an air compressor or a hand pump to inflate the tires to the recommended pressure. Otherwise, release some air until the tire pressure reaches the recommended pressure when the tires are over-inflated. Remember, dirt bike tire pressure needs to be checked more frequently than street bike tires, as the pressure can drop quickly due to the rough terrain and high speeds.
Cover your dirt bike with a protective cover
Choose a protective cover that is specifically designed for dirt bikes and is the appropriate size for your make and model of the dirt bike. Secure the cover to the bike using the straps or elastic cords that are included with the cover. Make sure to store your dirt bike in a dry and shaded place, to protect it from the elements like sun, rain, dust, and UV rays. There are many types of protective covers available, some are water-resistant, breathable, UV resistant and others, so choose the one that best suits your needs and storage conditions.
Store your dirt bike in a dry, temperature-controlled area
Find a suitable location in your home or garage that is protected from moisture and extreme temperatures. Also try to avoid storing your dirt bike in a damp or humid area, such as a basement or a shed, as this can cause rust and corrosion. If possible, store your gas-powered dirt bike in a temperature-controlled area, such as a room with air conditioning or heating. This will help to prevent damage to the battery, tires, and other components.
If the area is not temperature controlled, consider using a dehumidifier to keep the air dry and to prevent rust and corrosion. Always check on the dirt bike periodically and start it up occasionally to keep the battery charged and to ensure that all systems are functioning properly. Proper storage is an important part of maintaining motorbikes for kids and can help to extend the life of your bike and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
In general, good preparation or winter storage is not easy, and try to start with a mini dirt bike at the beginning. For beginners, the 40CC KIDS DIRT BIKE 003 with a 4-stroke engine is a good choice. However, dirt bikes change fast with kids’ age. Be aware to prepare your motorcycle for winter storage step by step.
