Quote:
Originally Posted by kstateskier  Forgive me as I'm no mechanic but how can letting it idle be hard on it? |
Unless you are actually riding it, it doesn't really get up to temperature AND lubricants don't flow around completely.
Notice what comes out the exhaust pipe..........LOTS of water vapor. Some of that water stays in the pipes; result: rust. Some of it stays in the crankcase.
IMHO, only do what is REALLY necessary.
If it is about due for an oil change, do that.
Fill tank. Put in Stabil.
Put Tender on battery.
Make sure key is OFF and not PARK.
Make sure petcock is NOT on Prime.
Cover.
Done.
Not necessary to disconnect or otherwise monkey with battery (unless it will be stored outside somewhere north of Detroit).
Not necessary to oil the top end unless the storage period is more than 4 months.
Also probably not a good idea to wash unless you can be sure it is THOROUGHLY dry.
If you have periods of warmth during the winter where moisture might accumulate, a light coating of WD40 or the bare metal parts is good.