Starting a motorcycle that has been stopped for a long time: on the road again

Let's review the points to check when we return to using the motorcycle after a long period of inactivity.
The reason for not using the motorcycle for a long time can vary, from hibernation (depending on the geographical area and climate) to personal or other reasons.

It's important to know that many of the procedures and checks we're going to discuss should be applied before every motorcycle ride.

Battery and electrical system
The weakest point of a vehicle that's parked too long is its battery. Depending on how we plan to store the motorcycle, we should have installed a charger-maintenance unit to create charging cycles and preserve the battery.

In any case, the first step is to thoroughly clean the terminals, thoroughly charge them with a suitable charger, and then, after reinstalling them, apply protective gel to the terminals and cables.

It would also be advisable to apply dielectric paste to all connectors (including spark plug wires) to prevent false contacts due to moisture or rust.

Engine and transmission oils
Even when the vehicle is parked, the oils also degrade, mainly because they absorb ambient moisture and because they mix with combustion residues, losing their properties.
It's absolutely recommended to change the oil and filter following the recommendations in the workshop manual. Another trick before starting the engine is to remove the spark plugs and spray a little engine oil through the cylinder head opening.

Tires
Under ideal conditions, the motorcycle should have been left elevated, with the wheels off the ground. If this isn't the case, it's a good idea to check the tires for deformation. In any case, you should also check the condition of the rubber (crystallization, cracks, deterioration, wear, etc.) and, if in doubt, replace them. It's essential to inflate them to the pressures recommended by the manufacturer, no more and no less.

Cables and brakes
We must lubricate all mechanical drive cables, for which we will use a good oil (those with a graphite base work very well) and we can use specific tools such as cable lubricators .

Once lubricated, we will tension and adjust them for precise control and safe handling.
As for the brakes, the fluid should be replaced every two years (it's important not to mix DOT4 and DOT5), and at least check the level in the master cylinder reservoir. If you hear squealing when braking, you can lubricate the brake pad pins with special brake grease (if the pads are worn, it's a good time to install new ones).

General cleaning
The next step is a thorough cleaning with water and neutral degreasing soap, preferably with a sponge and bucket rather than a pressure hose.

With the motorcycle completely dry, we will apply specific cleaners and protectors for chrome and paint .

To finish, all that remains is to lubricate the moving parts (throttle levers and grip, footrests, chain, bushings, etc.) and the components specified in the vehicle's workshop manual.
If we have not treated the gasoline with a stabilizer, it is best to change it for “fresh” fuel.

Around the clock
Now we can start the engine. While it warms up at idle (with the engine at operating temperature, we'll adjust this if necessary), we must make a 360º turn around the motorcycle, checking that everything is in place (use your hands to verify that nothing is loose). We will activate all the buttons on the dashboard (lights, brake, indicators, horn, etc.), checking that they are operational, and then we will carry out a road test to ensure that all the systems are working optimally.

Driver verification
In situations where a rider has not ridden a motorcycle for a long time, it's important to know that there will be a period of adjustment until they regain their confidence and previous skills. Therefore, the recommendation is to ride with caution until we verify that all the rider's "systems" are operating properly. This way, we can enjoy our passion again, with complete safety and freedom.

Frank Burguera

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