119
Storage
STORAGE
Preparation for Storage
Clean the entire vehicle thoroughly.
Fill the fuel tank with the correct grade of
unleaded fuel and add a fuel stabilizer (if
available), following the fuel stabilizer
manufacturer's instructions.
Remove the spark plug from each cylinder
and put several drops (0.16 fl oz (5 ml)) of
engine oil into each cylinder. Cover the spark
plug holes with a piece of cloth or rag. With
the engine stop switch in the RUN position,
push the starter button for a few seconds to
coat the cylinder walls with oil. Install the
spark plugs, tightening to
9 lbf ft (12 Nm)
.
Change the engine oil and filter (see
page
77
).
Check and if necessary correct the tire
pressures (see page
124
).
Set the motorcycle on a box or stand so that
both wheels are raised off the ground. (If this
cannot be done, put boards under the front
and rear wheels to keep dampness away
from the tires.)
Spray rust inhibiting oil (there are a host of
products on the market and your dealer will
be able to offer you local advice) on all
unpainted metal surfaces to prevent rusting.
Prevent oil from getting on rubber parts,
brake discs or in the brake calipers.
Lubricate and if necessary adjust the drive
chain (see page
85
).
Make sure the cooling system is filled with a
50% mixture of anti-freeze and distilled
water solution (see page
122
).
Remove the battery, and store it where it will
not be exposed to direct sunlight, moisture,
or freezing temperatures. During storage it
should be given a slow charge (one ampere
or less) about once every two weeks
(see page
104
).
Store the motorcycle in a cool, dry area, away
from sunlight, and with a minimum daily
temperature variation.
Put a suitable porous cover over the
motorcycle to keep dust and dirt from
collecting on it. Avoid using plastic or similar
non-breathable, coated materials that restrict
air flow and allow heat and moisture to
accumulate.
Warning
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can
be explosive under certain conditions. Turn
the ignition switch off. Do not smoke.
Make sure the area is well ventilated and
free from any source of flame or sparks;
this includes any appliance with a pilot
light.
