Ah, winter…the time for cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and sadly, fewer motorized bike adventures for some states! Whether you're storing your bike for the night, just while you are on the clock, or for the entire season, knowing how to protect your two-wheeled buddy from the elements (and your boss or spouse’s wrath) is essential. Let’s dive into some winter storage tips that will keep your bike in top shape and you out of the doghouse at home and at work!

Indoor Storage - Avoiding Fumes, Fights, and Fire Hazards

While keeping your motorized bike indoors is convenient, those gas fumes aren’t exactly "living room" friendly. If you must store inside try to find a backroom or garage with plenty of ventilation and that’s easy to clean just in case. Here are a few tips on how to make peace with everyone!

Fume Troubles? Bag It Up!

The fuel tanks that come with these bicycle engine kits are designed to be vented and are not vapor-sealed, so the smell of gas can linger like a bad roommate. Fix it with a simple trick, place a resealable plastic bag over your gas cap, then screw it back on. This creates a better vapor barrier and keeps the gasoline stench at bay! Keep in mind some thin cheap plastic bags are not really gas friendly so this is a great quick fix for overnight or during a work shift.

Exhaust Drips Aren’t Chic

Cold weather and old unburnt gas can cause buildup in your exhaust, which may lead to drips. These jet black drips can stain the toughest concrete, not to mention your partner’s favorite rug! Put a folded-up cloth or paper towel under the exhaust or try adding an old sock right on the end to catch dribbles and protect your floor.

Outdoor Storage - Weather Warriors Assemble!

Leaving your motorized bicycle outside in the cold, rain, or snow? Not the best but sometimes it is downright unavoidable! Here’s how to make sure it survives Mother Nature’s mood swings.

Rain or Snow? Protect Your Glow!

Know there’s a chance your bike is going to be sitting in the rain for hours? Remember that trusty zip-style bag, well it can also block out a straight downpour. A bike cover is for sure going to be the best, but a small tarp, or even a large BBQ grill cover can also protect your bike, engine, and CDI unit. A soaked bicycle engine means you’re not going anywhere until it dries out, and who wants that? Covering that engine could make the difference between getting home from work or not!

Long-Term Storage - Hibernation Hacks

Done riding for the year? Let’s go over some tips to prep your bike for a smooth reawakening in the spring!

Drain the Gas, Save the Hassle Next Year!

When you leave unused fuel in your fuel system for extended periods not only do you end up with low octane oxidized gas, but your fuel could also form varnish and other gum-like substances that clog fuel lines, jets, and carburetors. Do yourself a favor and drain your fuel if you are leaving your bike engine site for the season.

To do this, disconnect the fuel line and drain gas into a fuel worthy container using a funnel. Let any leftover gas dry out by removing the spark plug for a few days but don’t forget to reinstall it to block moisture buildup that can occur from sitting long term. Some style carbs have a drain at the bottom to make getting all the gas out even easier!

Fold It Flat, Save the Space

If you’re tight on space, you can fold your bike up. That's right, fold it up!

• Remove the pedals and zip-tie them to the frame for safekeeping.
• Loosen the stem and turn the handlebars to match the wheel direction.
• Push the handlebars down and out of the way.

This neat little trick turns your bike into a compact, 8-9” wide flat bundle that’s easy to tuck away until warmer days return.

What Are Your Tips?

These are just a few ideas to get your bike through the winter unscathed. Got your own storage hacks? Share them in the comments below or check out our popular facebook group for pics and advice! As always, if you need help, our team of bike-loving experts is just a call or click away.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to hit the road the moment spring arrives. Until then, stay warm, stay safe, and keep dreaming of your next ride!