So my bike has been sitting since November of last year (7 months) without being started. Should I cycle the starter button a couple times to bump the oil around before attempting to start it or just hit the starter and see what happens? Is there a way to spin the crank like on a car engine? I plan to change the oil prior to starting it to ensure that it has good oil and the proper amount in it.

Thanks,

BM

 

Just make sure you have fresh gas in it and fire it up. Let it idle for a few minutes before riding. Take it easy until it's good and warm. Enjoy!

 

I agree just start it and let it idle for a few min then take it on a easy ride around your neighbor hood then change all the oil.......

 

What Shrink said. Cold starts are the hardest on the engine. Better off just starting it up and let the oil start flowing.

 

You might put some Dry Gas in the tank and let the water that has collected dissipate/absorb (if you don't drain the fuel and put in fresh gas, as suggested by TheShrink! )

 

Very good advice regarding the gas here. check other fluid levels (primary,tranny) after oil change including break fluids.

Check tires for dry rot/damage. Air in shocks if equiped, spark plugs and wires.
I would ride local with another rider and carry a small tool bag just in case.
I'm sure all will be fine. Maybe carry some additional fluids in case a gasket has gone south and leaks. Let us know how it went
Enjoy and be safe

 

Tank is dry. The reason for the storage without starting it was becasue the tank was off it being painted with the other pieces. I guess I'll do as suggested and let the bike idle a little while before swapping out the fluids. My only other question is, are the fuel lines supposed to seem "loose" when installed in the tank? I tightened up the 3/4" fittings, but both lines seem to have a lot of motion in them. I also had the forks off for a progressive 1" drop so they have fresh heavyweight fluid and springs but still need air (thanks for the reminder!) The rears were also swapped out with Progressive 440s. I'd like to change out the plug wires but I'm not sure what to buy. I'm more of an upgrade when replace than a replace with OEM kinda guy. Any suggestions?

 

thats why i use synthetics they keep parts lubed-ride safe

 

take only short rides near home for the first while, i'd think, that way in case something is wrong, you aren't stranded. after a fresh fuel up, and checking all of the initial stuff you should be good to go huh?. can't believe you haven't started it in that long. should be okay though. have a good ride and enjoy the summer.

 

I'm pretty sure your fuel lines are good to go, if they leak take them off on reseat them, you should be fine.