How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Storage

How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Storage

Picture this: the riding season’s winding down, or maybe you’re heading overseas for a few months. Your motorcycle sits there — polished chrome, a little dusty from its last ride — and you know it deserves better than being left under a tarp in a damp garage. Motorcycle storage isn’t just about keeping it out of sight; it’s about protecting a finely tuned machine from corrosion, flat tyres, fuel issues, and electrical gremlins that can cost you dearly later on.

Whether you’re storing it for winter, during a relocation, or while travelling long-term, taking the time to prepare your motorcycle properly means it’ll be ready to hit the road when you are. 

Can You Put a Motorcycle in a Storage Unit?

Absolutely, and it’s a common solution for riders who want their motorbike kept safe, secure, and in top condition. Most self-storage providers allow motorcycles to be stored, provided you follow a few basic conditions. Generally, the motorcycle must be clean, registered (if applicable), and free from fuel leaks. Many facilities also ask that the tank be drained or treated with fuel stabiliser to prevent fumes or spillage.

Climate-controlled units are ideal, especially for long-term storage, as they protect your motorcycle from extreme temperature swings and humidity that can damage rubber, paint, and metal surfaces. Drive-up access is another game-changer — no wrestling your motorbike through narrow hallways or ramps. You can simply roll it in and lock up.

At Wilson Storage, riders can choose from a range of vehicle-friendly units designed with accessibility and safety in mind. With flexible sizes, 24/7 CCTV monitoring, and climate-controlled options, it’s a trusted choice for those who see motorcycle storage as an extension of proper motorbike care.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare a Motorcycle for Long-Term Storage

Before you park it for a few months (or longer), a bit of preparation goes a long way. Here’s a simple checklist to make sure your motorcycle is stored safely and starts up without issue when you’re ready to ride again:

• Wash and dry thoroughly – Dirt, road salt, and bugs can cause corrosion over time. Give your motorcycle a proper wash, then dry it completely to prevent moisture from settling in hidden crevices.
• Change the oil and top up fluids – Old oil contains contaminants that can damage internal parts. Fresh oil and topped-up brake, coolant, and clutch fluids help keep everything protected.
• Fill the fuel tank + add stabiliser – If your storage provider allows fuel, fill the tank to prevent condensation and add a stabiliser to stop the fuel from breaking down. Otherwise, drain it completely.
• Remove or charge the battery – Batteries lose charge over time. Either remove it and keep it on a trickle charger, or connect a battery tender if your storage unit has power access.
• Inflate tyres to correct pressure – Proper inflation helps avoid flat spotting and cracked sidewalls.
• Lubricate the chain and exposed metal – A quick coating of chain lube or light oil keeps moisture from causing rust. Don’t forget to wipe off any excess.
• Cover the motorcycle properly – Use a breathable motorcycle cover. Avoid plastic sheeting — it traps moisture and can damage paintwork.

Motorcycle Tyre Care in Storage: What to Know

Tyres might look tough, but they’re surprisingly vulnerable during long periods of stillness. So, how long do motorcycle tyres last in storage?

Leave your motorcycle sitting for months without attention, and those beauties can develop flat spots — subtle at first, but noticeable when you roll out for your first spring ride.

Here’s how to keep your tyres in shape:

• Inflate to the correct PSI before storage. Check your owner’s manual for the right numbers.
• Use stands to take the weight off the tyres entirely, especially for long-term storage. A paddock stand or centre stand works perfectly.
• If stands aren’t available, move the motorbike slightly every few weeks to shift the pressure points.
• Avoid contact with cold concrete. Lay a mat or piece of carpet under the tyres to prevent moisture absorption and cold damage.
• Rubber also ages over time, even when unused. If your tyres are five to six years old — regardless of mileage — it might be time to replace them before hitting the road again. Proper storage won’t stop the clock, but it will certainly slow it down.

How Often Should You Start a Motorcycle in Storage?

This one divides riders. Some swear by starting their motorbike every few weeks; others insist it’s better left untouched. The truth depends on your situation.

If you’re storing your motorcycle for a short period — say, over winter — starting it up every few weeks can be beneficial. Let it idle until it reaches full operating temperature, which helps circulate oil, keep seals lubricated, and burn off moisture in the exhaust. Just make sure you do this in a well-ventilated area, not inside a closed storage unit.

For long-term motorcycle storage, though, it’s usually better not to start it at all. Instead, prepare it properly beforehand with fresh oil, stabilised fuel, and a connected battery tender. Intermittent starts without riding often cause more harm than good — fuel can go stale, condensation can form, and short idling doesn’t let the engine get warm enough to expel moisture completely.

If in doubt about how often you should start a motorcycle in storage, store it “sleep-ready” and leave it until you’re truly ready to wake it up.

Don’t Forget Motorcycle Gear Storage

Your motorcycle isn’t the only thing that deserves proper care; your gear does too. Helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots are all made from materials that can easily degrade if exposed to moisture, dust, or fluctuating temperatures. Proper motorcycle gear storage keeps everything in top shape and ready to ride.

• Clean and dry before storing: Sweat, grime, and bugs can break down materials over time. Wipe down helmets, wash removable liners, and air out leather or textile gear completely.
• Use breathable bags or bins: Ditch the plastic tubs — they trap moisture. Fabric gear bags or mesh bins let air circulate while keeping dust away.
• Avoid damp garages or sheds: Humidity leads to mould and odours that are difficult to remove. Climate-controlled storage is the best option for long-term preservation.

The good news? You can store your gear in the same unit as your motorcycle. Many riders dedicate a corner for neatly packed bins, shelves, or hooks for jackets and helmets. It’s not just convenient; it keeps everything organised and in one place when you’re ready to ride again.

Choosing the Right Motorcycle Self Storage Unit

When it comes to motorcycle self-storage, security and accessibility are non-negotiable. Look for facilities that offer 24/7 monitoring, PIN-coded entry, and individual unit alarms for peace of mind. Your motorbike is an investment. It deserves the same level of protection you’d expect for any valuable asset.

Accessibility matters too. Drive-up units are the most convenient option, letting you roll your motorbike straight in without ramps or heavy lifting. Wide driveways and loading zones make the process simple; ideal if you’re storing more than one vehicle or need regular access. Climate-controlled units are another smart choice, particularly if you’re storing for months at a time. They help regulate temperature and humidity, protecting delicate finishes, rubber seals, and electrical components.

At Wilson Storage, you’ll find a range of motorcycle-friendly vehicle storage units across Australia, each designed with security, convenience, and flexibility in mind. From compact drive-up spaces for solo riders to larger units for those with multiple motorcycles or accessories, we provide tailored vehicle storage solutions that make it easy to store with confidence. Plus, flexible lease terms mean you only pay for the time you need — whether it’s one season or one year.