Coming Out of Storage
Even if you applied our motorcycle storage tips before putting your bike away for the winter, you'll want to go through this checklist before hitting the road this riding season

Is the Fuel OK?
If you used Sta-Bil or a comparable fuel stabilizer as outlined in our storage tips, your fuel should be in good shape as long as it's been a year or less. Regardless, double check by opening the filler cap and looking inside for gunk or stratification.

If the fuel is consistent and clean, you can go to the next step. If not, you're better off draining the tank, fuel lines, and carburetor (if applicable) before running the engine. If you didn't spray fogging oil or lubricate the top of the cylinder before storage, you may want to remove the spark plugs and pour two tablespoons of oil into the spark plug ports; this will lubricate the top portion of the cylinder walls before you start up the bike.

Check the Engine Oil's Quality and Quantity

Whether or not you changed your engine oil before storage, you'll still want to check the oil level before riding. If you didn't do an oil change before storage, now is a good time to consider that oil and filter change, especially since oil degrades when it sits.

Check out our how to change a motorcycle's engine oil article for step by step

Charged Up?
Motorcycle batteries tend to lose life quickly, especially in cold weather. If you kept your battery trickle charged or hooked up to a tender, it's probably in good shape. Nonetheless, check the leads for corrosion, and make sure they're attached snugly.

If applicable, make sure your battery is topped off with distilled water, and if it's not completely charged don't ride until you're confident it will hold a charge and not leave you stranded.

Check for Leaks
Check your clutch, brake, and coolant levels (if applicable.) Remember that if brake fluid needs topping off, you'll need to use a new, sealed supply that is the same brand as the fluid already in the system.

Check the Tires
If you kept weight off your motorcycle's wheels and suspension as outlined in our storage tips, bravo! Chances are your tires and suspension are in good shape, but you should still thoroughly inspect them before riding. If your motorcycle rested on a kickstand, check to make sure there are no unusual stress marks, cracks, or flat spots on the tires.

Refer to our step-by-step tire maintenance article in order to make sure your tire wear, inflation levels, and general health are ready for the road. You can also read our chain maintenance article to make ensure that your chain is ready for use again.