Winter Hack

[kwacker]

Well its time to get the winter hack out (CBX 550 F2). I have to do some work on the ZX6R (ie. rear tire, Cush drive, chain, sproket, Clean, oil change, etc). Only problem is the winter hack has been in the garden since I bought it a year ago. It needs an MOT, insuring, and a general sort out.

Anyone else diging the winter hack out of the garden?

[ben lizard]

no , but mines is going in hibernation at the end of the month .

As this is the first time i have done this what should i do preparation wise ?

[dennisthemenace]

Im going to ride mine all year just like i did with the ZZR sod putting it away

[kwacker]

If mine was going into hibernation for the whole winter, I would give a really good clean, and then bathe it copiously in WD40 and seriously lube the chain. That should keep most of the moisture (and nasty rust) away.

Kwacker

[dennisthemenace]

also get it up on passock stands if you have them to stop flat spotting the tyres

[ben lizard]

should i leave the tank full of petrol to stop it rusting inside, just that the problem of unleaded solidifing discussed in another thread has kind if put me off that

[hertsbiker]

The proper way of storing the fuel tank involves draining it, and putting in 1/4 pint of engine oil. Shake it all round to coat the surfaces & refit.

It will take a few pints of petrol to wash it out in spring, but it won't be rusty. And don't forget to wash it out or the carbs will clog up big time.

Personally I wouldn't store it - I'd sooner ride it once a week or so when the roads are dry (it does happen). That seems to keep 'em ok, and give it a good wash to get rid of the salt.

C

[iguana]

hertsbiker said:
Personally I wouldn't store it - I'd sooner ride it once a week or so when the roads are dry (it does happen). That seems to keep 'em ok, and give it a good wash to get rid of the salt.

C

Thats my thoughts too, I really enjoy a sunny winters day blast on country B rds, no speed guns, almost no bugger about and my bike seems to love the cold air. Having an unfaired machine it does take a while to thaw out tho...

[bikerkeith]

The amount of work involved in firstly preparing a bike for winter storage, then getting it back ready to ride again is just not worth it. I usually take the bike out for a short blast whenever its reasonably dry in the winter, if there is a bit of salt about then I have to be scrupulous in washing it all off before putting the bike away again. Last winter it was pretty grotty for weeks on end so I just got the bike out and ran the engine up until it was warm before putting it back again. Helps keep condensation at bay.
Had some brilliant winter rides even around New Year. Provided the hangover isn't too bad (and there isn't still loads of alcohol sloshing around the body) its the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs.