How Do You Store a Motorcycle?

Mega Storage in Holden, Maine
November 6th, 2024

How to Safely Store a Motorcycle in a Storage Unit? Tips for Bangor, Maine Riders

With the Maine riding season near its completion, you may be looking for safe places to store your motorcycle. When it’s time to put it into storage—whether for winter or an extended break—you want to ensure it’s safe, secure, and ready to ride when you return. For riders in Maine, placing a motorcycle in a storage unit is a popular option to keep it protected from harsh weather. Here are some tips to make sure you’re storing your motorcycle in a safe way, protecting your bike from the elements.

1. Why Choose a Storage Unit for Your Motorcycle in Bangor?

Given Maine’s unpredictable weather, a storage unit is an excellent way to keep your motorcycle safe from rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. Not only does a storage unit prevent exposure to those elements, but it also shields your bike from temperature fluctuations and moisture that can cause premature wear and corrosion over time.

2. How Should You Prepare Your Motorcycle for Storage? Proper preparation is essential to keep your bike in optimal shape. Here are the basics. Simply following these gets you half-way there.

Clean Your Motorcycle: Dirt and debris can damage the paint and metal parts, leading to rust and corrosion. A thorough wash and dry will help preserve its appearance. Be sure it is fully dried before parking it.

Change the Oil and Top Off Fluids: Old oil can lead to internal corrosion if left sitting. Fresh oil ensures all parts stay lubricated, reducing wear and tear during storage.

Fill the Gas Tank and Use a Fuel Stabilizer: A full tank of high octane gas helps avoid moisture buildup that can cause rust in the tank and a fuel stabilizer keeps gas from deteriorating.

3. What Should You Do to Maintain the Battery?

Cold weather can drain a motorcycle battery, potentially causing it to lose its charge or even freeze. Disconnect the battery from both terminals and store it in a warmer place. If your unit provides electricity, you can use a trickle charger to keep it charged and ready for spring.

4. How Can You Prevent Tire Damage During Storage? Rubber can degrade when left in contact with concrete for expended periods of time and storing a motorcycle in the same position can lead to flat spots on the tires. To avoid this:

Elevate Your Bike: A motorcycle stand helps relieve pressure on the tires.

Check Tire Pressure: Keeping your tires inflated to the recommended PSI reduces the risk of flat spots over time.

5. Is a Cover Necessary for Indoor Storage?

Even in an indoor storage unit, a cover can protect your bike from dust and minor scratches. Choose a breathable cover designed for motorcycles; avoid plastic covers, as they trap moisture and increase the risk of rust. Be sure to choose a motorcycle cover from a reputable manufacturer and one that fits your bike from front to back.

6. Should You Opt for a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit in Bangor?

While climate-controlled storage is recommended, simply storing your bike in a secure, covered location protected from the elements reduces condensation and protects against corrosion. It is not recommended to store your motorcycle outside over winter or for extended periods of time – even when covered.

7. What Security Features Should You Look for in a Storage Facility? Security is essential when storing valuable items like a motorcycle. Look for a storage facility that offers surveillance cameras and active management. Positioning your bike toward the back of the unit can provide added security, especially in a well-monitored facility. Take your motorcycle key with you as you leave the facility and store it in a safe place at home. And be sure to use approved locks for the storage facility where you are storing your bike. Not all locks are made the same and the facilities will be happy to recommend to you the type of lock you should be using on your storage unit door.

8. How Often Should You Check on Your Motorcycle When it’s in Storage? For extended storage periods, checking on your motorcycle once a month is a good habit. Look for any signs of leaks, low tire pressure, or other issues, and address them as needed. It is a good idea to place cardboard or painter’s plastic underneath your bike when stored for long periods of time, as this will tell you whether spots found under your motorcycle are from your vehicle or were there before it went into hibernation.

9. Do You Need Renter’s Insurance for a Stored Motorcycle? Motorcycles are often a high value item and damage or loss during storage, while unlikely, can prevent you from getting back on the road when the temperature warms back up. Your storage facility is likely to encourage renter’s insurance for all your belongings and a motorcycle is often covered under such policies against damage or loss. If you need a recommendation on rental insurance companies to explore, speak with your storage facility manager. They will be happy to direct you to trusted sources based on their experience.

Looking for Secure Motorcycle Storage in Bangor, Maine? If you’re in need of a reliable storage solution for your motorcycle, Mega Storage provides secure, protected units perfect for winter motorcycle storage. With excellent security and easy access, you can rest assured your bike will be safely stored and ready to go when riding season comes back around. Contact us today to learn more or sign up right through our website.

Mega Storage is conveniently located in Holden, Maine and serves the Bangor area with competitive pricing and 24/7 access.