OK here is my situation, this is my first Harley that I'm storing over the winter and I have two options. One being the local dealer which gave me free storage with the purchase of my new Wide Glide a few months back, and a local bike shop that's offering $99 for the storage. Here is what they both said they will do to the bike.

Harley dealer: Offers heated storage, Sta-bil in the gas, battery tender over the winter.

Local Bike shop: not heated sorage, but in wharehouse. Sta-bil in gas, then drains it, said he will "fog the engine", not really sure what that is. fills tires up to 40lbs, Cardboard or carpet under the tires, and battery Tender.

So do I really need to do all these things that the local shop said he will do? Is he the better bet to go with? What do you guys think, Thanks

 

I have never put my bike away for the winter, I ride it all year round. The way I see it, no ICE, no reason not to ride. But, I am not you an I don't know what you comfort level requires. But I would imaging that the Dealler would be better, I am sure that they are insured and would more then like help you out if there are any issues with the way they stored the bike, plus they can do the spring service without you having to bring it to them.

 

I've stored all my Harley's with Stabil and a tender ove rthe winter. In my unheated garage I also place it on a lift with a barrier between the bare cement floor.

All that said, given your choices, I would take the HEATED free storage at the dealer. The lack of teperature swings is better storage! I have never worried about draining stabil fuel in the spring, I just run it out no issues!

 

Ummm.... Why would you pay for storage when you have an offer to store it for free? The main thing to be concerned with is the availability of the bike should you choose to go for a ride every now and then. Just because its winter doesnt mean you cant ride it.

 

of your two choices...... the dealer...... simply for the heated storage, and its FREE........

 

Ami I missing something? Free storeage (and in a heated location!) at HD vs paying $99.00 to store it in an unheated warehouse???

Also, if there is a disaster, ie; fire, flood, theft... and your bike is damaged, destroyed or stolen, whose insurance would you rather rely on?

 

I need to interject... Most storage places require you to carry your own insurance. They will store the bike for you, but you are responsible to have your bike insured.

The storage facility may offer insurance, which you are not obligated to take, but anything that should happen, you are responsible for.

Ask about insurance requirements beforehand, and read your contract before signing.

 

Yeah, just run the sta-bil out in the Spring. Then do your Spring Service and go about your merry way. Or drain it. Whatever.

Great service from your Dealer. Good stuff. The only other thing I'd consider is, when momma follows you up there to take you back home, take a piece of THIN plywood or T1-11 cut to size to put under your tires. Concrete gets cold, even in a heated facility. You could even take a couple of rubber floor mats if that's easier for you.

Or...... You could just get a set of these --





I hesitate to show these because Joe will probably run out and get a set.

 

Yep, you're right. Thanks for correcting my error.

 

Gren i have a buddy that has them on his adventure for wintr rides... i am trying to get a set for my sport touring so we can do the upper UP this winter