Long time since start up
Long time since start up
I have a 2017 road glide. Long story short is the bike hasn't been started in 5 months due to parts being at various places getting painted, coated, and life just happens. Bike got serviced at the 1000 mile service and now has about 1500 miles on it. Should I service it again? I have read on here that the bike should be serviced every 6 months and others say every year. Also that letting the oil sit that long it can turn to acid. Also should I do any start up procedures? Some say shake the bike, some say to pull the plugs and crank the motor to get the oil circulating. What's y'alls thoughts? I don't want to go to the dealer since they just try to sell me whatever
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 1,296
Likes: 1,229
From: Depends on where I am
Lots of people store a bike for several months during the winter. The bike will be fine. Start it, let it warm up, and ride.
I would be more worried about the battery sitting that long. Put it on a tender the day before and you should be good. Obviously do your routine pre-ride check (T-CLOCS), especially tire pressure.
If it makes you feel better you could change the oil, but IMO not necessary.
I would be more worried about the battery sitting that long. Put it on a tender the day before and you should be good. Obviously do your routine pre-ride check (T-CLOCS), especially tire pressure.
If it makes you feel better you could change the oil, but IMO not necessary.
Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 578
Likes: 22
From: Ontario, Canada
My bike sits for 5 months every year. That's how long our winter is here. I change all fluids before I park it in the fall. Check the battery and fire her up. You're good to go......
Last edited by Dguy; Feb 2, 2018 at 04:20 AM.
Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 172
Likes: 16
From: Tennessee
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 25,306
Likes: 2,443
From: Eastern NE
OP; You're fine...just need to do some pre-start/ride checks:
1. Air pressure check.
2. Battery charge check.
3. Fluid-level check(s).
4. Signal/control check.
5. Fire 'er up & ops check.
If all is well - ride-on!
1. Air pressure check.
2. Battery charge check.
3. Fluid-level check(s).
4. Signal/control check.
5. Fire 'er up & ops check.
If all is well - ride-on!
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