It can be a hard task getting your motorcycle cleaned and prepared for the upcoming riding season after it has been sitting in your garage all winter. Regardless of the type of motorcycle you own, you need to learn how to properly fine tune and prepare it for the springtime.

List of Preparation Tasks

The following is a list of preparation tasks you should follow no matter if you own a Ducati, Harley, Yamaha or some other make of motorcycle. After your bike has been sitting in storage for several months, it is also important to read over your service manual for any additional cleaning and tuning tips that are relevant to your specific bike. Even though a task may seem inconsequential, it must not be overlooked.

* Look over your battery terminals and clean them with water and baking soda if necessary
* Apply one of several after-wash products and dry after application
* Check all lubricants including the oil
* Look over all cables and apply the specific type of lube made for cables
* Check the bike tires’ wear and pressure
* Check and either recharge the battery or install a new one if necessary
* Make sure all lights are operational
* Look at the brake pads for any signs of wear and check the level of brake fluid
* Make sure you have washed the bike to clear away dirt and debris that has built up
* Follow the proper maintenance for leather care in regards to the seat and saddlebags
* Be sure the drive belt, shaft or chain is in working order
* Give all the painted parts and chrome a good polish and wax
* Add octane booster if you desire
* Use mild soap to clean the inside of your motorcycle helmet
* Take note of the current mileage
* Address any issues you may have noticed right before you put the bike away for winter storage.

Although you have completed all the tasks on your pre-riding season maintenance list, there are still other chores to be done before you actually get to ride on the open road. Since the bike has been sitting for months without being used, you need to get used to the feel of your motorcycle again and make sure the bike is running properly. So take the bike out to a vacant lot and practice breaking, riding and using the clutch. If this is your first year of being a proud motorcycle owner and you are unsure as to how to do some of the above maintenance tasks, take your bike to your local motorcycle mechanic; they can answer all of your questions.