SOME WINTER THOUGHTS

Although we do not get cold weather often, and we certainly do not get cold weather like they get up in the northern states, Georgia does have its’ winter months. Probably more so in North Georgia than in the rest of the state, but we all experience cold weather. In this case, Georgia riders can usually ride 12 months a year. However, for those who do not wish to ride during our “winter” months, there are a few things we can do for our trusty riding machine, that will help prolong its’ life and serviceability.

First thing to think about is the oil. If you do not plan to ride enough to accumulate the required miles between oil changes during the winter, you should change the oil and the filter. You really should not let the dirty oil with all of the contaminants it has accumulated and trapped in the oil and oil filter to just set in the engine over a long period of time. Install fresh oil and oil filter before putting the bike up for the winter. When it is time for you to start riding again, change the oil and filter again. This will help in removing harmful contaminants from your engine.

Next is the battery. If you use a trickle charger, as most of us do, and you do not have a sealed/maintenance free battery, keep a check on the water level. Water /acid will evaporate more quickly while being constantly charged during the long inactive time period. If you need to add water, use only distilled water.

Check your coolant level. Evaporation can also be a problem. If you need to add coolant, use only the type recommended for your engine.

Tires, as you know, should be constantly checked, even more so if you are not riding at all. You know how often you have to add air to your tires when you do ride often, imagine how much air loss occurs when you do not ride it for extended periods of time.

And last, but not least, is your fuel. If you are truly not going to ride during the winter months, drain the gas from your tank and also the carburetors. Gas will evaporate and the residue and trash in the gas will cause problems when left in your gas tank for long periods of time. It is a whole lot cheaper to put a fresh 6 gallons of gas in your tank when you get ready to ride again, than it would be to have your fuel lines, gas tank and carburetors cleaned of all the harmful “crud” that will certainly have taken up residence there.

But, if you are like most GWRRA riders in the south, you will be riding most of the winter anyway. So, if that is the case, then may I remind you, that just because you are out riding, does not mean you can forget it is cold. Maybe even cold enough to have a wee bit of ice left in the shady corners as you go around the curves. And let us not forget the ever present leaves that remain on the roads. It does not take much moisture under the leaves to make them just as slick and dangerous as ice. So, be careful out there, ride, have fun and above all, enjoy . . . .

And, as usual, always be watchful for the unwatchful . . . .

RSHF,

Chuck and Anne Reed
Georgia Senior District Educators