Though ATVs are built to conquer all weathers and terrains, it can be difficult to enjoy off-roading when it’s freezing outside. If you are planning to take a break from your adventures, don’t make the mistake of storing your quad bike without any preparation.
Tips For Your ATV
In this post, we’re sharing important winterization tips to keep your Can-Am ATV in good condition and ensure high performance in warmer weather. Take a look.
Clean Your Vehicle
Whether you like exploring rough terrains or haven’t used your ATV in a while, your machine has likely accumulated dust and grime. It’s crucial to thoroughly clean your ATV before storing it. Start by hosing down the entire machine and letting it soak for a bit. Next, use a sponge dipped in a detergent solution to clean every nook and cranny. Lastly, rinse it and use a towel to make sure it’s completely dry.
Minimize Wear & Tear
In addition to drying your ATV after a wash, you also need to grease up different components to prevent rust and corrosion. Use suitable products for lubricating chains, U-joints, driveshafts, brake cable, throttle cable, and other parts. Doing this not only ensures a smooth riding experience but also prevents premature wear and tear. On the other hand, with the emergence of powersport graphic applications, ATV owners now have more vehicle customization options. Graphics can be printed on vinyl wraps and then applied to the body of any ATV to give it that unique look. This industry has become incredibly versatile, and the possibilities for customization are endless.
Drain Fuel
Does your ATV have a gas plastic tank? It would be best to drain all of the fuel before storing the machine. On the other hand, a metal tank should at least be half full to prevent condensation. To further mitigate any moisture build-up in the tank, remember to add a stabilizer. Skipping this step can lead to water freezing inside the tank and damaging it.
Inflate Tires
Checking the tires is an important step to winterize your ATV. Take a look at each tire to make sure it’s damage-free. It’s a good idea to inflate the tires before putting the vehicle away. Additionally, you can prevent flat spots by lifting the ATV off the ground with the help of a stand.
Change Oil & Air Filters
Changing the oil is a crucial part of routine maintenance. You should change the oil as well as air filters for the new season.
Charge Battery
While you can take out the battery, that doesn’t always prevent it from draining. We recommend using a trickle charger to ensure your ATV battery doesn’t die during the winter months.
Cover It Up
A closed garage space would be ideal for protecting your ATV from snow and other harmful elements. Moreover, you should also cover the vehicle with a breathable fabric. If you lack the space, you can consider renting a storage unit.
Keep Critters Out
If you don’t have a garage or any kind of covered storage space, there’s no option but to store your ATV outside. Apart from harsh weather, you also have to think about critters that can crawl and nest inside your ATV. Besides being a hassle to clean, these animals can also damage your machine.
The solution is simple. All you need is some duct tape to cover any openings.
Don’t Forget Riding Gear
Apart from the ATV, you probably have spent a considerable amount of money on riding gear. Rather than just throwing everything in a box, we suggest following the steps to properly storing your gear. Start by cleaning off any grime or dirt. After that, ensure your riding jackets, gloves and other gear are completely dry.Make sure to pack everything in separate bags.
The Bottom Line
While carrying out protective maintenance may feel tedious, it is absolutely worth the effort. Hopefully, the aforementioned tips will come in handy for storing your ATV for winter.
