Winter is here and if you are worried about optimum performance of your motor bike, then you don’t need to worry. There are some affordable ways that will help you to have a good time with your bike in the winters. Here, we have listed five winter bike protection and care tips for you:
1. Use Motorcycle Cover
For those of you who do not have other option than to leave your bike outside in the open, first and foremost, go and buy a cover. However, a bike cover can protect the motorcycle to a certain extent. Before covering up your motorcycle, make sure that your machine is dry as moisture will build up in the air surrounding the bike once the cover is on and that may be dangerous leading to corrosion. Also, if possible, apply a film of water repellent spray on your bike that will help in keeping away any moisture.
2. Battery Care
Essential tests
One of the most important parts of a motorcycle that may see the maximum effect of winters is the battery. Low temperatures affect the strength of batteries and increase the viscosity of the fluid inside. The current needs to flow properly for the starting of the bike which gets difficult due to the thickened liquid and hence, the bikes take longer than normal to start. Sealed dry batteries don't require any maintenance and if it's not working properly, charging it up or replacing it with a new one is the best option. For old style acid batteries, top them up and apply vaseline on the terminals to ensure proper functioning during winters.
3. Using An Anti-Freeze
During the winter season, the water in the radiator chills or freezes quickly. In this case, add an anti-freeze or proper coolant to do the trick. In the market, you can easily find readily mixed coolants that have been already mixed with all the required additives. If the water on system freezes on a cold night, you will have a hard time cranking up the engine and that is when an anti-freeze helps you keep away from all that hassle.
4. Oil Change
During winters, it is the responsibility of an engine oil to protect the motor properly. If the oil is old, replace it with a new one as the oil that already has been filled some time back do not have that much potential to safeguard the engine in comparison to fresh oil. Also, ensure that you use good quality engine oil that comes with additives best suited for the chilly environment. After topping up, don't go harsh on the motor straightaway and instead, give it some time by warming it up.
5. Chain Lubrication
The chain is one the parts of a motorcycle that continuously keeps moving while you ride and hence, it demands special care and attention. In winters, lube your chain on a weekly basis and rather than applying the lube generously and in long intervals, it's better to apply little and more frequently. Best time to lube is right after you come from a ride as doing so will ensure that the substance will go into the gaps, thereby promising proper lubrication and a smoother ride.
Source: financialexpress