Your bike is one of your prized possessions, but sometimes you need to keep it at a storage facility to keep it safe and out of the way. Before putting your bike in a storage unit, you need to prepare it properly first, especially if it’s going to be in there for a while. Below are some tips to follow to get your bike ready to be stored.

What to Do Before Putting a Bike in a Storage Facility

1. Make Sure It Fits

You need a storage unit that’s large enough to accommodate the bike and any other possessions without scratching or bending it. The storage facility you choose should also allow for easy access when you must retrieve or store it, such as drive-up ground units or an elevator if it’s not at ground level.

2. Clean & Lubricate It

Dirt and grime can damage your bike’s paint and corrode the metal, and oils and dirt can ruin leather seats and grips. Use appropriate cleaning products to wipe down every surface of your bike to remove damaging particles. You should also lubricate the chain to keep it from getting stiff while in storage. To avoid dust accumulating, cover it with a blanket or bike cover.

3. Make Necessary Repairs

During or after cleaning your bike, check it for cracks, scratches, rust, and other damages. Structural issues can worsen in storage and make the bike prone to breaking when you try to ride it. Repair it before putting it away for the season to prevent any costly damages.

4. Inflate the Tires

For long-term storage, inflate the tires before putting the bike in the unit. Also, check and reinflate the tires once a month during the storage period. Air will leak out of them over time—which is normal—but if they deflate too much, the bike’s weight will rest on the rims and warp them. Keeping proper inflation prevents this from occurring.

Do you need a storage facility where your bike will be safe? All Season Storage in Kalispell, MT, has been providing affordable short- and long-term storage options to Flathead County since 1990. Their family-owned facility has outside lighting, is fully fenced, and stays meticulously clean. Reserve your unit by calling (406) 755-2913.