A motorcycle may remain stationary all winter, then resume intense rides or daily commutes. More exposed to weather conditions and temperature changes, it requires special attention. Thanks to our klavkarr diagnostic tools, you can easily perform checks and prevent breakdowns while preserving your motorcycle's longevity.
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Why is it important to prepare your motorcycle before the riding season or winter storage?
A motorcycle is not just a daily means of transport. It can remain stationary for several weeks, or even the entire winter, then suddenly be used for long rides. This seasonal usage puts a strain on the mechanics!
Before a long trip or storing it for several months, a few simple checks can save you from unpleasant surprises. Two key moments require special attention:
- Before holidays: to hit the road with peace of mind and avoid breakdowns far from home.
- Before winter storage: to protect the mechanics during months of inactivity and ensure a trouble-free restart.
In both cases, serious preparation, even if quick, makes all the difference.
Check your motorcycle warning lights before riding
Before hitting the road, take a few seconds to check the warning lights on your motorcycle's dashboard. Simply turn on the ignition without starting the engine. All warning lights should briefly light up and then turn off.
This is a quick test to ensure that the electronic systems are functioning correctly.
- Red warning light: immediate stop (oil pressure, engine overheating, brake issue).
- Orange warning light: check required (oil change, AdBlue, sensor).
If a warning light remains on after starting, it usually indicates a problem that should be identified before a long ride.
To pinpoint the issue more precisely, our klavkarr diagnostic tools allow you to read fault codes associated with the warning lights, provided you first check that your motorcycle is compatible.
Check the warning lights before winter storage
Before storing your motorcycle for the winter, repeat the same dashboard test. Turn on the ignition and check if all the warning lights turn off as expected.
If a warning light stays on and you plan to leave the motorcycle stationary for several weeks or months, it is better to resolve the issue before storage. An untreated electronic or mechanical fault can worsen during a long period of inactivity.
On some modern motorcycle models, it is possible to read and clear fault codes using our klavkarr diagnostic tools.
When to change motorcycle oil? Guide for holidays and winter storage
When to change motorcycle oil before a holiday trip?
Before heading out with your motorcycle, it is highly recommended to check if the engine oil change is up to date. If you are nearing the maintenance interval (in kilometres or days), it is better to do it before departure.
On some recent motorcycles, the maintenance light can be reset with a diagnostic tool if your motorcycle is compatible, allowing you to start with a fresh maintenance record.
Should you change motorcycle oil before winter storage?
Changing the oil before winter storage is recommended. Clean oil provides better engine protection during months of inactivity and limits internal corrosion. After the oil change, some motorcycle models also allow you to reset the maintenance counter with a diagnostic tool, if the motorcycle is compatible.
To connect your klavkarr tool via Bluetooth to your phone, DO NOT go to the Bluetooth devices section in your iPhone's system preferences; everything is done through our diagnostic app!
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Motorcycle battery: checks, maintenance, and breakdown prevention
The battery is one of the most used… and most neglected components on a motorcycle. After a period of inactivity, or before a long trip, a weak battery can prevent starting or cause electronic malfunctions.
Check the battery before riding
Before holidays or after winter storage, start by checking your battery's voltage. With our klavkarr 310 tool, you can test your battery to detect any potential voltage issues. Ideally, it should be at least 12.6 volts with the engine off. Below this, recharging is necessary.
Next, inspect the terminals: they should be clean, tight, and free of oxidation. Even a small white deposit can disrupt starting.
If the battery struggles to hold a charge despite a full recharge, it is advisable to replace it. Generally, the lifespan of a motorcycle battery is between 3 and 5 years.
Preserve the battery during winter storage
During months of inactivity, the battery discharges slowly, even when not in use. To prevent this:
- Disconnect it if the motorcycle will remain stationary for a long time.
- Use an automatic maintenance charger to keep it optimally charged.
- Store it in a dry, frost-free place if you remove it.
This simple precaution will save you from unpleasant surprises when restarting and extend your battery's lifespan.
Motorcycle tyre checks: pressure, wear, and prevention
Check your tyres before your rides
- Check the pressure when cold, referring to the values indicated by the manufacturer.
- Inspect the general condition of the tyres for any deformation (flat-spotting), irregular wear, cracks, cuts, etc.
If your motorcycle is equipped with a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), ensure it is functioning correctly.
Prepare your motorcycle tyres for long-term storage
To avoid tyre deformation:
- Inflate the tyres slightly above the recommended pressure (without exceeding the manufacturer's limit).
- Place the motorcycle on a stand, ideally on a centre stand or workshop stands to relieve the wheels. If this is not possible, move the motorcycle slightly once a month to prevent tyre deformation.