Placing Motorcycle in Storage
NOTICE
Proper storage is important for the trouble-free operation of your motorcycle. See your Owner's Manual for storage recommendations or see a Harley-Davidson dealer. Improper storage procedures can lead to equipment damage. (00046a)
If the motorcycle will not be operated for several months, such as during the winter season, there are several tasks which should be performed. These steps will protect parts against corrosion, preserve the battery and prevent the build-up of gum and varnish in the fuel system.
WARNINGDo not store motorcycle with gasoline in tank within the home or garage where open flames, pilot lights, sparks or electric motors are present. Gasoline is extremely flammable and highly explosive, which could result in death or serious injury. (00003a)
NOTE
Make a list of everything you do and fasten it to a hand grip. When you take the motorcycle out of storage, this list is your reference/checklist to get your motorcycle in operating condition.
| 1. | Fill fuel tank. Add fuel stabilizer following manufacturer's instructions. Use one of the commercially available gasoline stabilizers and follow the manufacturer's instructions. | |
| 2. | Warm motorcycle to operating temperature. Change the oil and run the engine to circulate the new oil. | |
| 3. | Adjust the belt. | |
| 4. | Check tire pressure. Refer to Specifications → Specifications → Specified Tires for tire pressures. | |
| 5. | Prepare battery for winter storage. See Maintenance and Lubrication → Battery Maintenance. | |
| WARNING Explosive hydrogen gas, which escapes during charging, could cause death or serious injury. Charge battery in a well-ventilated area. Keep open flames, electrical sparks and smoking materials away from battery at all times. KEEP BATTERIES AWAY FROM CHILDREN. (00065a) | ||
| 6. | If the motorcycle is to be stored with security system armed, it will be necessary to connect a Battery Tender to maintain battery charge. If security system will not be armed and a Battery Tender is not available, remove the main fuse. | |
NOTICE Use only Genuine Harley-Davidson Extended Life Antifreeze and Coolant. Use of other coolants/mixtures may lead to motorcycle damage. (00179c) | ||
| 7. | Check and fill the cooling system. | |
| 8. | To protect the vehicle's body panels, engine, chassis and wheels from corrosion, follow the cosmetic care procedures described in the Accessory Maintenance section of this owner's manual before storage. | |
| 9. | If motorcycle is to be covered, use a material such as light canvas that will breathe. Plastic materials that do not breathe promote the formation of condensation. |
Removing Motorcycle From Storage
WARNINGThe clutch failing to disengage can cause loss of control, which could result in death or serious injury. Prior to starting after extended periods of storage, place transmission in gear and push vehicle back and forth several times to assure proper clutch disengagement. (00075a)
| 1. | See Maintenance and Lubrication → Battery Maintenance for proper battery care. Charge and install the battery. | |
| 2. | Run motorcycle until engine is at normal operating temperature. Turn off engine. | |
| 3. | Check the oil. | |
| 4. | Check the clutch fluid level. | |
| 5. | Verify that the controls are operating properly. Operate the front and rear brakes, throttle, clutch and shifter. | |
| 6. | Check steering for smoothness by turning the handlebars through the full operating range. | |
| WARNING Coolant mixture contains toxic chemicals, which may be fatal if swallowed. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting; call a physician immediately. Use in a well ventilated area. Irritation to skin or eyes can occur from vapors or direct contact. In case of skin or eye contact, flush thoroughly with water and go to hospital, if necessary. Dispose of used coolant according to federal, state and local regulations. (00092a) | ||
| 7. | Check the radiator connections and coolant level. | |
| WARNING Be sure tires are properly inflated, balanced, undamaged, and have adequate tread. Inspect your tires regularly and see a Harley-Davidson dealer for replacements. Riding with excessively worn, unbalanced, improperly inflated, overloaded or damaged tires can lead to tire failure and adversely affect stability and handling, which could result in death or serious injury. (00014b) | ||
| 8. | Check tire pressure, refer to Specifications → Specifications → Specified Tires for specified pressure. | |
| 9. | Check overall tire condition, see the tire replacement section. | |
| 10. | Test all switches and lights for proper operation. | |
| 11. | Check for any fuel, oil, coolant or brake fluid leaks. |