10 Tips When Storing a Motorcycle In A Storage Unit

Why Proper Motorcycle Storage Matters

Putting your motorcycle away the right way can keep many problems from happening. If you don't take the proper steps, your bike could rust, lose its charge, fuel, or even become a home for bugs. These problems can make fixes more expensive and lower the home's selling value. Whether you're putting your motorbike away for the winter or for a few months while you travel, preparing it correctly will help it stay in good shape and work well when you're ready to ride it again. We know how important your motorcycle is to you at Ala-Stor Storage in Montgomery, AL, so we have options that will help you keep it safe.

Choosing the Right Storage Facility in Montgomery, AL

Choosing a well-located and secure storage facility is crucial to long-term motorcycle storage. Being close to your home or on your commute route makes it easier to perform regular check-ins or retrieve your motorcycle when the riding season returns. Facilities with drive-up storage units are ideal, especially in Montgomery, where humidity can contribute to rust and mold. At Ala-Stor Storage, we provide drive-up storage along with 24/7 video surveillance, gated access, and convenient drive-up units. Located at 145 Eastdale Rd. Our facility offers peace of mind and quick access for residents near Eastdale Mall and the Eastern Boulevard area.

Prepping Your Motorcycle for Long-Term Storage

Clean your bike well before putting it away. Over time, dirt, dust, and bug droppings can eat away at paint and chrome, especially if water gets stuck underneath. Make sure to dry the motorbike all the way through after washing it so that water doesn't get stuck in the cracks. Covering the surfaces with a layer of wax or an anti-corrosion spray is also a good idea. Take extra care to remove bugs and dirt from the fairings, radiator grills, and chassis so that acidic substances don't leave behind and damage the finish.

Fuel System Preparation

When you store a motorbike, you must pay extra attention to the fuel system. If the tank is left empty, the moisture inside it could cause it to rust. If you put new fuel in the tank and add a stabilizer, it will protect the internal parts by stopping them from oxidizing and gumming up. Run the engine for a few minutes after adding the stabilizer to let the oil move through the system. If your motorbike has a carburetor, you might also want to empty the float bowls so that the jets don't get clogged up over time.

Engine and Oil Maintenance

Changing your motorcycle's oil before putting it away for a long time is very important. If you leave used oil sitting for a long time, the acids and other contaminants in it can damage engine parts. After you change the oil, ensure enough coolant and brake fluid. Adding to or changing these fluids can help keep the cooling and brake systems from rusting. By taking these steps now, you can escape problems that come up out of the blue and costly fixes in the future.

Battery Storage and Maintenance

Batteries tend to lose power over time, and they can die totally if you leave them alone. In order to avoid this, you should take the battery off of your motorbike and keep it somewhere dry and cold. Putting it on a trickle charger or battery warmer helps it stay charged and makes it last longer. Clean the battery leads before putting it away to keep them from rusting and to make sure they fit well when you put it back in.

Tire Care During Storage

If your motorcycle tires are parked for too long, they can get flat spots. Put your bike on a center stand or field stand to prevent this. If you don't have any stands handy, make sure the tires are filled to the manufacturer's suggested level. Moving or rotating the tires every couple of weeks is also a good idea to keep the pressure even. This keeps your tires in good shape, so they're ready to go when riding season starts up again. 

Lubrication of Key Components

Keeping mechanical components lubricated is another key step in motorcycle storage. Start by applying fresh chain lubricant, especially after cleaning it thoroughly. Don’t forget to lubricate the control cables, such as clutch and throttle lines, to prevent them from sticking. You can also apply a light layer of grease or silicone spray to suspension parts and exposed metal to ward off moisture and oxidation.

Covering Your Motorcycle the Right Way

Choosing the correct cover for your motorcycle can make a big difference. Breathable, motorcycle-specific covers allow moisture to escape while protecting the bike from dust and UV exposure. Avoid using plastic tarps or non-ventilated materials, as they can trap moisture underneath and promote rust. A well-fitted, ventilated cover ensures your bike stays clean and dry during its time in storage.

 Indoor vs Outdoor Storage Options

Storing your motorcycle indoors, especially in a drive-up storage unit, provides the best protection from weather and temperature fluctuations. If indoor storage isn’t an option and you must store your bike outside, use a high-quality, waterproof cover and place the motorcycle on a dry, solid surface like concrete. Avoid grass or soil, which can cause moisture buildup. Positioning your bike in a shaded area also reduces UV exposure and keeps it cooler.

Store With Ala-Stor Storage

If you need storage for your motorcycle, consider using Ala-Stor Storage. We have premium storage options for your motorcycle. Contact our storage manager today to get you into a storage unit.