Vintage BMW Storage Tips for Perth Bikers

Perth, the City of Lights, boasts sunshine almost year-round. While this makes Perth a haven for outdoor living, it presents unique challenges for storing your beloved vintage BMW motorcycle. The harsh summer sun, coupled with occasional dust storms and humidity spikes, can wreak havoc on your prized possession if not stored correctly.

This guide equips Perth’s vintage BMW enthusiasts with the knowledge to ensure their motorcycles hibernate soundly during the hot months, emerging in pristine condition when riding season resumes.

Location, Location, Location: Choosing the Perfect Storage Spot

The first step to successful storage is selecting the ideal location. Here’s what to consider:

• Temperature control: Ideally, aim for a space with a consistent temperature between 40°F and 60°F (4°C and 15°C). Garages can become scorching during Perth summers, so consider a climate-controlled storage unit if a cool basement or shed isn’t available.
• Humidity control: Humidity levels above 50% can cause rust and mold growth. Aim for a space with good ventilation or a dehumidifier to maintain humidity between 40% and 50%.
• Security: Ensure your chosen location is secure, with proper locks and security measures to deter theft.

Cleaning is Key: Preparing Your Vintage BMW for Storage

Before tucking your motorcycle away for the summer, meticulous cleaning is essential. Here’s your pre-storage checklist:

• Wash thoroughly: Remove all dirt, dust, and grime using a gentle motorcycle shampoo. Pay particular attention to areas prone to rust, like the frame, spokes, and handlebars.
• Dry meticulously: Don’t underestimate the importance of drying completely. Use compressed air to expel water from nooks and crannies, and allow the bike to air dry entirely before storage.
• Metal care: Apply a coat of metal polish with a wax base to chrome and aluminum parts to create a protective barrier against rust and corrosion.
• Leather treatment: Treat your leather seat and saddlebags with a dedicated leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.
• Fuel system: For extended storage (over 3 months), it’s advisable to drain the fuel tank and carburetor completely. Alternatively, you can add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation and gum formation.

Battery Blues? Winterization Tips for Your Perth BMW

A healthy battery is vital for a smooth start when riding season resumes. Here’s how to ensure yours stays strong:

• Disconnect the battery: Remove the negative terminal first to prevent electrical gremlins.
• Tender loving care: If possible, bring the battery indoors and connect it to a battery tender to maintain a trickle charge throughout storage. This prevents the battery from losing its charge and sulfating the plates, ultimately extending its lifespan.
• Alternatively, store it fully charged: If a battery tender isn’t available, ensure the battery is fully charged before storage. Top it up every few months to prevent complete discharge.

Standing Tall: Techniques for Safe Motorcycle Storage

Properly supporting your motorcycle during storage is crucial to prevent tire flat spots, suspension stress, and potential leaks. Here are two common methods:

• Center stand: If your vintage BMW has a center stand, utilize it. Ensure the stand is in good working order before placing the bike on it.
• Paddock stands: Invest in high-quality paddock stands that fit your specific motorcycle model. Distribute the weight evenly between the front and rear paddock stands.

Extra TLC: Additional Considerations for Perth’s Climate

Perth’s occasional dust storms and humidity spikes warrant some extra precautions:

• Dust cover: Invest in a high-quality, breathable motorcycle cover. This will shield your bike from dust, sunlight, and minor scratches. Avoid plastic covers that can trap moisture.
• Moisture absorbers: Place desiccant packs strategically around the motorcycle to absorb excess moisture in the air.

Spring Awakening: Waking Up Your Vintage BMW from its Summer Slumber

When the Perth summer finally relinquishes its grip, it’s time to revive your motorcycle. Here’s how to get it back on the road:

• Thorough inspection: Visually inspect the motorcycle for any signs of damage or leaks. Check tire pressure and inflate if necessary.
• Battery revival: If you used a battery tender, reconnect the battery terminals. If not, give it a full charge before attempting to start the engine.
• Fresh fluids: Consider changing the engine oil and filter before the first ride. This removes any contaminants that may have accumulated during storage.
• Fuel system check: If you drained the fuel tank, refill it with fresh fuel.

Advanced Vintage BMW Storage Techniques for Perth

While the previous section covered the essential steps for storing your vintage BMW, passionate Perth enthusiasts might crave a deeper dive. Here are some additional tips to elevate your storage game:

Chain Maintenance: Perth’s dry climate can wreak havoc on your motorcycle chain. Before storage, thoroughly clean the chain with a dedicated chain cleaner and degreaser. Apply a coat of high-quality chain lube to prevent rust and corrosion during the off-season.

Tire TLC: Even with proper support, prolonged storage can cause flat spots on your tires. Here are two approaches to minimize this:

• Overinflate: Slightly overinflate your tires by 5-10 psi above the recommended pressure. This reduces the contact area with the ground, minimizing flat spot formation. Remember to deflate to the recommended pressure before your first ride.
• Tire movers: Invest in motorcycle tire movers. These small platforms distribute the weight of the motorcycle evenly, preventing flat spots.

Fuel System Deep Dive (Optional):

Draining the fuel tank completely is an excellent option for extended storage (over 6 months). However, it requires some additional steps:

• Fuel line treatment: After draining the fuel tank, run the engine until it sputters and dies. This ensures all fuel is removed from the carburetor and fuel lines.
• Carburetor cleaning (Optional): For long-term storage, consider removing the carburetor for a thorough cleaning. This removes any leftover fuel residue that could gum up the works during storage.

Remember: If you’re unfamiliar with carburetor cleaning, it’s best to consult a qualified vintage BMW mechanic to avoid any complications.

The Perth Advantage: Embracing the Off-Season

While some motorcycle owners dread the off-season, Perth’s sunny skies and mild temperatures present a unique opportunity. Here are some ways to utilize the storage period productively:

• Winter projects: Use the downtime to tackle any maintenance or restoration projects you’ve been putting off. This could involve anything from replacing worn-out parts to giving your motorcycle a fresh paint job.
• Parts hunting: Perth boasts a vibrant vintage motorcycle scene. Utilize the off-season to hunt for those elusive parts you’ve been searching for online forums, swap meets, or specialist vintage motorcycle stores.
• Community building: Connect with other vintage BMW enthusiasts in Perth. Join online forums, attend club meetings, or simply chat with fellow enthusiasts at local motorcycle cafes. This is an excellent way to learn new tips, share experiences, and build a strong sense of community.

A Summer of Serenity, A Season of Preparation

By following these tips, Perth’s vintage BMW enthusiasts can ensure their prized possessions emerge from storage in pristine condition, ready to conquer the open roads when riding season returns. Remember, proper storage isn’t just about protecting your motorcycle; it’s about giving yourself peace of mind during the off-season. So, relax, enjoy the sunshine, and use this time to prepare for a season filled with exhilarating rides on your beloved vintage BMW.

Bonus Tip: Consider taking high-quality photos of your motorcycle before storage. This serves as a valuable reference point when inspecting the bike upon retrieval and can also be helpful if you encounter any issues during the off-season.