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

We will review the points to verify when we use the motorcycle again after a long season.
The reason why the motorcycle has not been used for a long time can be varied, from a hibernage (depending on the geographical area and the climate) to personal or others.

It is important to know that many of the procedures and checks that we are going to comment should be applied before each motorcycle output.

Batería y sistema eléctrico
The weakest point of a vehicle parked more than the account is its battery. Depending on how we have planned the storage of the motorcycle, we should have installed a loader-steador To create load cycles and keep the battery.

In any case, the first step is to clean the terminals well, make an in -depth load with an adequate charger and after re -installing it apply it Protective gel In terminals and cables.

It would also be convenient to apply Dielectric paste In all connectors (including spark plug cables) to avoid false contacts due to moisture or oxide.

Motor and transmission oils
Although the vehicle is parked the oils also degrade, mainly because they absorb environmental humidity and because they mix with combustion residues, losing properties.
It is absolutely recommended to change oils and filter following the recommendations of the Workshop Manual. Another trick before starting the engine is to disassemble the spark plugs and spray some engine oil due to the opening of the cylinder head.

Tires
In ideal conditions the motorcycle should have left high, with the wheels without contact with the ground. If this is not the case, it should be verified that there is no deformation of the roofs. In any case, the state of the rubber must also be verified (crystallization, cracks, deterioration, wear ...) and in case of doubts replace them. Fundamental is inflating them to the pressures recommended by the manufacturer, neither more nor less.

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

Once lubricated we will tighten them and adjust for precise control and safe handling.
As for the brakes, the liquid must be replaced every 2 years (important do not mix with DOT4) and at least check the level in the pump tank. If we listen to squeaks when braking we can lubricate the pins of the pills with Special brake fat (If the pills are worn it is the perfect time to mount new ones).

General cleaning
The next step consists of thorough cleaning with neutral degreaser soap and water, better with sponge and bucket than with pressure hose.

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

Finally, we just have to lubricate the mobile points (handle and fist of gas, postapiés, chain, caps ...) and components specified in the vehicle workshop manual.
If we have not treated gasoline with a stabilizer It is best to change it for "fresh" fuel.

Around the Clock
We can already start the engine, while heating idling (with the engine at operational temperature we will adjust it if it proceeds) we must turn 360º around the motorcycle checking that everything is in place (use your hands to verify that there are no nothing loose). We will act all the buttons of the control box (lights, brake, flashing, horn ...) checking its operation and then we will perform a road test to ensure the optimal operation of all systems.

Driver verification
In situations where a long time has been spent without using the motorcycle, it is important The "systems" of the pilot operate properly. In this way we will be able to enjoy our passion again, with total security and freedom.

Frank Burguera

#mecanicaharley