How long should a bike be left without riding?

[@sputnikl727]

6 weeks a long time? We park our bikes for 5-6 months every winter in the north

[@RasheedKhan-he6xx]

You do know many people park up for 4-6 months over winter? 8-9 weeks is a non issue.

[@stephenwright6969]

Because I've worked abroad mainly for the last 20 years or more and won't ride in the winter due to the salt my bikes have been garaged for 6 months or more at a time. I keep mine connected permanently to an optimate and always ensure the tank is full and I've never had a problem, first press of the starter everytime.

[@avrilkellett167]

Great video as usual. One of my best investments was to buy an optimate charger about 5 years ago. I leave it permanently connected and then switch the power once a week for about an hour. No more problems. More harm comes to the battery if you allow it to go dead flat. What is sometimes called deep discharge. If you are not fortunate to have power to your garage / shed I recommend you remove the battery and charge it about every two months. A slow trickle charge is much better for your battery than a fast charge.

[@colinhumphries4734]

Don't forget that modern fuel now in 2020 has a higher Ethanol content which can cause corrosion in metal tanks over time,so I always put some 'Fuel Stabiliser' in my 2009 Street Triple R tank over the Winter,also I over- inflate the tyres by 10-15psi each and at least store the bike on carpet,if not off the ground,plus,of course,a trickle charger for the Battery is a must,then after Winter I change the Oil & Filter,lube & adjust the Chain,check Brakes, Suspension,etc.before my first ride- my Battery still has an excellent charge when checked with a meter,and it's now 9years old!( 2nd Battery fitted after the Triumph Rectifier Warranty mod.As you say,a really fantastic bike all round- still not bettered,AND yes,I have ridden the latest 765RS!

[@TheBrokenBMW]

My Honda 2002 CBR600F was left in a garage total untouched for 13 YEARS! From 2003 to 2016. Only damage was corroded fuel tank and new battery. Now running as smooth as new :)

[@alejinoo8920]

I’m on the same boat 2008 CBR600rr, did you by any chance replace chain brakes etc.

[@rontrose]

I just make sure to start mine once a week, move it around a bit or keep it on stands to prevent flat spots on tires and a trickle charge. Not much else needed. Modern, fuel injected bikes are pretty stable over the winter. Thanks for this.

[@betweenframesproduction3968]

Some say that starting the bike in winter storage does more harm than good because of the condensation in the engine that occurs.

[@stewartdouglass2774]

I tend to spend more time trying to recognise the roads the flyer is on as I live in the same area.

[@jmcphee7]

Very clean bike. Perhaps do a video on your cleaning methods? Wouldn't suit everybody I accept, but you keep them in good order and it would be nice to see just how you do that. Products / Methods etc.

[@CountMiffed]

Sounds like a plan to me, would be great to know what his cleaning process is.

[@TheDervMan]

+jmcphee7 Yea great call :-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+jmcphee7 Crikey by popular demand it seems! OK chaps, I'll add it to my list of videos to make.....stay tuned!

[@jmcphee7]

+TheMissendenFlyer Excellent. Mine is clean TMF but quite like this. It would be interesting to see how you do it. Oh and a cheeky mention too? ;-)

[@TheDervMan]

+TheMissendenFlyer I'm off to get the popcorn 😁👍🏻

[@adzski920]

Love how original your videos are dude, always a pleasure to watch, keep it up!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+adzski920 Thank you - much appreciated and will do!

[@stuartfillingham]

good point about petrol not going off! I didnt realise it would last so long these days! wont please the missus though, during winter I have been syphoning the tank on my adventure and putting it in her car!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+stuart fillingham Glad to be of use! ...and sorry to the Mrs....

[@bailey-cj2pl]

This needs updating, we now have E10 petrol, which ought not to be left in the tank. Instead, only use E5 filled to the top, and a fuel stabiliser.

[@phils2180]

I never actually take bikes "off the road" by sorning them but in Winter when rides could be few and far between (dirt bike excepted), I just brim the tank, get the weight off the tyres with a stand(s) and keep the battery topped up. I'm in the same fortunate position as yourself in having a dry warm garage to keep them in so no damp/corrosion problems. Your point about plastic tanks is a good one. My FE570 has one and you can smell the fuel by pressing your nose against the tank, due to vapour migration. Not really a problem for me though as it gets used all year round.

[@charlieryan1736]

I have the Oxford solar charger because I keep my bike under cover outside and it’s been working beatify. Thanks for another informative video review

[@steviedieselblood334]

charlie ryan do you have issues with damp or rain rusting the bike? Rusty kick stand, chain etc

[@charlieryan1736]

Stevie DieselBlood compared to past covers the Oxford is by far the best one I ever had. The only problem I had was after three years some of the material around the stitching started to become undone and the vinyl window that the solar charger slides into developed a small crack. In regards to moisture or chain maintenance my Ducati 848 was perfectly dry and the chain was normal. I currently have a Harley-Davidson V Rod with much more metal work for the past eight months and it has been absolutely waterproof.

[@stardustdreamfactory1947]

Sadly, my bikes are sitting for many weeks between rides. Using 90/0 (no ethanol) in both bikes with excellent results and I always top off the batteries, check tires, etc. before my rides. Bought some new riding gear that I hope to check out ASAP. Have been attempting to self treat flu like symptoms (contracted after visiting with my daughter!) for the last 10 days or so - seeing the doc monday! Keep up the good works.

[@user-us1hx2cx3j]

I think if you *totally* fill your fuel tank and use fuel stablizer (and run it through the lines, carb etc too for a few minutes) your bike can survive at least a year if not several. Preferably have both tires off the ground and the bike stored in a low humidity shed and suitably covered up. I've recently stored a 67 Triumph 100c for over a year in eastern Canada with no apparent ill effects (minus 30 c on some days in winter in an unheated but dryish shed).

[@HepcatHarley]

I have left the Harley in mothballs this winter but do run it up to temp about every fortnight or so and recharge the battery just after. The Hornet 900 gets a good ride out once or twice a week followed by a good clean and mist over with water repellant spray.

[@HartfordHD125]

Another nice video, and another coincidence. Yesterday I took my battery off and charged it with the Oxford charger - thankfully it needed very little current, and was fully charged after about 10 minutes. But more critically I had (about 6 weeks ago) put some Briggs and Stratton Fuel Fit in the tank, and I can happily report the bike started easily first time (just before removing battery) in an ambient temperature of only about +3C. The petrol will last quite a while you are right there - in fact I did my research on this too (YES, I AM AN ANORAK........). Fuel tends to lose some of its octane value but it is still quite viable. When I was younger, and a lot dafter, I would regularly leave my bike approximately 4 months (Nov., Dec., Jan., Feb) before starting up again. Surprisingly, it fired up first attempt in mid-March. Mind you, this is NOT RECOMMENDED, probably had an element of good luck anyway, and I would not do it again. Still, we are all older and wiser nowadays aren't we ? KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+HartfordHD125 Sure thing - good to hear from you again my friend, thanks for sticking with the me!

[@shabazdharwadkar3756]

Always original and actual reviewes in your videos... thanks.

[@GummyBoar]

Damn dude you should have so many more viewers, your vids are such great quality and the bikes are bloody lovely!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+GummyBoar That's very kind of you to say so sir!

[@bandogbone3265]

Fuel with ethanol (in the US) absorbs water and turns to shellac. My Speedy sat unused in the garage for 2 years (I won't discuss why) and subsequently required major service, including fuel pump replacement and other things, altogether costing over a thousand "quid", as you call them. Although I connected a battery tender, I neglected to drain the tank or add fuel stabilizer when the bike went into hibernation. When I took it back home from the Triumph hospital last week, I found that the charging system was not working, despite the fact that they verified it. The bike is now back at the shop, they said the stator is ok, but the rectifier / voltage regulator module is toast. I wonder if I might have been overzealous with jump-starting attempts before taking it to the shop, thereby burning the rectifier/regulator. Moral of story -- run your bikes often, treat or drain the fuel if they sit unused, and follow storage protocols recommended by the manufacturer (check your owner's manual) as well as by reputable KZbinrs and bloggers -- don't be lazy, or you'll have to pay dearly later! The whole business of adding ethanol to fuel is fraudulent and purely political. It takes more gasoline to produce the ethanol than had you used the gasoline directly.

[@RichDunn]

In the mid nineties, a despatch rider friend had an engine fail on him. He needed to keep earning but only had an old Yam XS1100 at his disposal that hadn't been started for 15 years. He gave the plugs a coat of looking at and swapped the battery over from his daily bike to the Yam, and with the same engine oil and petrol still in the bike got it to fire up first time. He ran it until warm, while checking the levers and spraying a bit of lube on the cables, then ran it to the local garage, filled it up and used it for work until he fixed the other bike. All I'd read about acids in engine oils and petrol destroying internals like blood in the Alien movies if you didn't add fuel stabilizers and pay someone to service the fluids in your bike every five minutes, to maintain your warranty, quickly got added to my 'urban myth' list! If you've got an old bike that has been stood years, I would recommend draining the petrol, doing oil and filter changes and applying a wire brush and feeler gauges to the plugs if easily accessible, prior to trying to start it. But ultimately it's probably not needed. And IMPO winterizing a bike (i.e. draining fluids and turning tires, not sensible tasks like cleaning and oiling cables) just because you won't use it for the next four months say, is a complete and utter waste of time IMPO! Just keep it on a battery trickle charger - the type that won't over-charge, like an Optimate, and come the spring, you should be good to go again,

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Richard Dunn I completely agree Richard!

[@aslkdfjhg]

Clutch plates can stick, making it impossible to start in 1st or set off. Sometimes you can rock the bike in 1st gear with the clutch squeezed to brake them loose. Use a quality oil and this doesn't occur as much.

[@L00kert]

Glad to see she started after all. My Streety is parked in an underground garage for almost four months now (seasonal licence plate). I usually fill up the tank so no rust can build on the inside and disconnect the batterie and put it on a charger. Every now an then I start her up and ride in the garage so the moving parts are actually moved ;) Another issue I read about could be the tires as they are standing in one spot for a considerable time. But have never actually noticed any problems so maybe these are problems of the past with new tire compounds or so.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+lookert Yes, if you know you are leaving the bike for a while then I agree with your approach (and would move the wheels from time to time to stop any flat spots occurring) - the issue I had here is that I wasn't intending on not riding the bike, I try and ride all my bikes at least every week or so if I possibly can....cheers for stopping by and thanks for the comment - TMF

[@nickpaull2362]

How long do you think bikes sit in the dealers? Second hand bikes can go unstarted for many months if it’s a sticky stock number. Unless it’s a Triumph battery eater. I’ve had 3 Triumphs and they have all been the same.

[@user-sv6qq8tp9x]

no sir thank you. some of your video's have helped me an saved me money keep em coming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Great to hear, thanks...and will do!

[@darkninja67]

Nice video I recommend a battery jump starter to a bikers. I own the Noco and it fires the bike right up

[@bradster1708]

Great comment worthy of more likes. These days lithium batteries are common in jump starters and so not only are they relatively cheap but also quite small, they can be not much larger than a mobile phone and capable of starting a car

[@lrcb40]

With inches of snow/ice outside, here in Michigan, I'm glad I can go on a ride on your bike! I'm missing riding my Tiger 1050 now...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Andrew Nichols Glad to be of service Andrew, I feel your pain!! Have you seen the new Tiger Sport Triumph have just announced? Looks like a nice machine......

[@markjackson7650]

The old petrol goes stale myth again 😜. I put a charged battery on my mum's deauville last week that hasn't ran since 2009 and it sparked straight into life. Safe to say it's petrol didn't go stale.

[@En3usiast]

A good topic for discussion........ I keep my bike in a lock-up away from the house.....no charging facility, which worries me a bit over the winter months To keep things working I ride as often as possible with a maximum of 4-6 weeks between outings Always ride for a minimum of 50 miles which I read somewhere is good for a full battery charge-up..... Seems to have worked OK for a while......the only reasons not to ride being snow and ice or wet salty winter roads......

[@awaywayye]

I have a 1979 puch magnum x scrambler that is now being used by son. It's had literally nothing done to it in 30 years i kid u not! Petrol has been left in it for years without use and it would still kick into life with no probs. I took the carb out a few years ago and it was spotless!!!. It has a metal tank mind you.... My CBR600 stays on trickle charge all the time and can be layed up for months ive had no probs with it either. ....just recently subbed ur channel ....im liking that triumph!! 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes funnily enough I used to have a share in a puch moped that had been laying around for about 20 years - cleaned the spark plug, put in some fuel and off she went! Welcome to the channel and thanks for the sub!

[@d1rcwill]

When I was working on vintage aircraft, whenever we put an engine in storage we'd remove the oil, rocker covers, camshafts and plugs and spray the internals with inhibiting oil (it's really waxy and thickly coats surfaces so no oxidation can occur). Obviously though this is more of a concern for engines that are being stored for years (maybe decades!). If I was going to ever be in a situation where I was leaving my road vehicle unused for ages though I'd probably put it through a similar procedure - but obviously not for just a month off like this case. Maybe if I ever get a "summer" vehicle that ends up in the garage for the winter...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+d1rcwill Sadly our aeroplane currently has it's engine inhibited in exactly that way, it's been 18 months since she ran and I have a nasty feeling she won't be running anytime soon :0( ...but yes I agree, this bike lay-up wasn't planned or so long, so no such measures required - I just think I have a battery on the way out - thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF

[@d1rcwill]

Bugger! Always worth renting a bit of time in a microlight once in a while to remind yourself what it's like up there ;) Enjoy the bikes and keep making videos! Cheers

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+d1rcwill ...don't think because our aeroplane is grounded I'm not still flying!! Helps to have pals with PA28's going spare :0) Thanks for the kind words and will do (though I've pretty much given up making the flying videos as it transpired very few people watched 'em....!)

[@stephenhadley2490]

I bought a new C50 boulevard in 2007 and rode it for a year then I forgot to pay the rego so I just left it. Put a new battery in January 2017 and it started first go but gradually started running poorly. I eventually took the tank off and there was about a kilo of some hideous red mud in the tank which I think is old fuel sludge mixed with tank rust. I cleaned it but it’s still not right. I suspect the injectors might be a bit clogged. The motto is don’t leave your bike parked for 9 years with half a tank of fuel and ride it without cleaning the tank out first.

[@chriscy2105]

Not so much of a problem for me now, but when I had 3 or 4 bikes at a time, a battery tender/conditioner helped tremendously. They would start just like I rode the day before, after a long hiatus. Some models of tender support multiple bikes at the same time.

[@MegaMaxymoo]

lovely machine, great vids, the care you take looking after your bikes is military like...a credit to the two wheeled community, ride safe.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+max bull Thanks Max, appreciate the kind feedback - I am a bit OCD when it comes to looking after my bikes, pride of ownership and all that. Cheers for stopping by - all the best - TMF

[@mikelucinder3284]

Add a fuel stabiliser if you're leaving ethanol-mix fuels in tanks for any long period - or if your tank is nylon like my Triumph drain it completely as it causes it to expand over time.

[@cruisingthethaiway6881]

Fuel stabiliser dose not work with ethanol fuel. This is a proven fact. I know many fuel stabilisers make claims that they do help. These claims are completely false.

[@eskertoo]

I used to own an Aprilia Tuono 1000R with a nylon tank.It was a bit of a pain refitting it due to expansion.But I read that the real problems came if you ever had to remove the fuel pump from inside the tank.It was very difficult to line up the holes in the base plate and get a good seal.And a new tank for that bike cost nearly £3000!I am not kidding.Now I own a 2006 Speed Triple with a nylon tank which has also expanded.To refit it I have had to leave out the two metal tubes the fixing bolts go through at the front and back.Even so it's a tight fit.The bad news is they are putting more ethanol in the petrol every year or two.

[@geoffozevans4500]

Only subscribed a few months ago, you keep your bikes looking mint, only way to go, have a good weekend 👍 😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Geoff - if my bikes are left too dirty it troubles me.......

[@matthiasweiss1144]

This is my second winter without winterizing the bike in New England. I make sure to ride her at least every other week (and I make sure I catch every chance to ride because you don't know when the next forced two-week off-period will start), and I only fill the tank halfway so I get to fill up more often. No problems so far, last year on the F800GT, this year on the Multistrada 950.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice one!

[@robjohnston]

Great video, shame more people don't see it as I think your videos are very well produced and informative.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Rob Johnston Well that's very kind of you to say so Rob, thanks....

[@alwynmcmath]

nice honest review. Makes a change to see someone show our machines when they don't start etc. I loved riding my STR but typical triumph build quality niggles put me off eventually and she had to go. I use an optimate and rotate it round all my bikes if they have a few weeks rest. Sage advice.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+alwyn mcmath Hi Alwyn, thanks for the kind comments - I've had a couple of "Modern" Triumphs and in the main have been very pleased with the general build quality, the new machines (Thruxton and T120 in particular) have really upped the ante again in the quality stakes....

[@bikersquest]

I thought about this as well, ideally for me it would be a month as my bikes live outside and I don't want things (levers, pivots bearings etc) to seize or corrode in place. That being said I like to start the bike up so the oil circulates around the engine head again before going back to the pan to help keep the internals good condition. Yes super overkill in reality but I really hate using the train.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Bikers Quest ...I like your style BQ!

[@jeancarnell2406]

Bikers Quest 7 to the UK AND IRELAND .0

[@The33JAYJAY]

That quick shifter combined with your exhaust sounds great.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+The33JAYJAY Thank you - I agree ;0)

[@vosi88]

Ducati monster 2009 was left for about 4 years and my fuel had turned to sticky tea and parts of the fuel system needed replacing. I always fill up with high quality fuels so i think if your bike is left for years you would be wise to make an inspection

[@neilturner4846]

Due to ill health and work commitments my poor BMW K1200rs sat in my garage all covered up for 10 years!! (Since 2011!) Pull it out pumped the tyres up, checked everything, put new battery on and it started first push it the button and ticked over nicely. Didn't even change the fuel! It also passed the mot with no referrals. Out on it most days now.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant!

[@geoffozevans4500]

Same here, I am a tad OCD with detailing & I like it so makes it easy ay mate 🖒😎

[@HJC1950]

Hi, TMF. It's been 8 weeks since I've had the R1200GS out, but that is normal for upstate New York. I did a little bit of riding in December, which was unusual in itself. I almost got the bike out yesterday but the driveway was all ice so I kept it parked. I put a "smart" charger on my bike once or twice a month over our winters, which are longer than yours.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Harold Clark Hey Harold - it's been a while, good to hear from you again! I went for a quick ride on the GS today - actually made 15 degrees C here today.....don't much like the sound of your ice!! Roll on Summer eh?

[@HJC1950]

+TheMissendenFlyer Yes, indeed. I need to schedule the 6K service, but can't count on the weather allowing me to ride the 75 miles to the dealer until...late March? Mid-April for sure...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Harold Clark Crikey - I didn't realise it as so cold in NY State - thank goodness I'm in balmy ol' England...actually a fair bit further North than you (but protected by warm ocean currents)...

[@jonathandavies6811]

I had been wondering if the little STR had been neglected recently!!! Understandably with the new toy however! Really pleased that it hasn't lost its appeal though, looking forward to some warmer weather so i can get out on the bike myself!!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Jonathan Davies Here here to that Jonathan! ....and I would never neglect the Street Triple, just 'cos I hadn't ridden it don't think I haven't been talking to it and patting it on the seat every now and then - it's a well loved machine...

[@andrewmiddleton7107]

I have the exact same bike as you, same color, same pipes and and same year it seems (2012).. I've recently fitted a Puig screen and it really helps on the highway as I use the bike to commute every day.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You are a man of great taste obviously Andrew!

[@inthenameofjustice8811]

If I left a bike standing for longer than three months I always did an oil change first before starting her up. On a bike with a carburettor I would remove the plugs to remove the compression and turn the bike over for a while on the starter to get the oil flowing around and stop moving parts binding because the oil had drained away from them. If the bike had stood for a very long time (More than six months) I would inject a few squirts of engine oil into each cylinder before putting the plugs back in. Just to provide some good slippage in the bores. A quick clean up of the plugs and nine times out of ten she would fire right up in a cloud of burning oil smoke. Once the oil was burnt away I would take her out on the road.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+InTheNameOfJustice Sounds like a good plan - thanks for stopping by, good to hear from you again!

[@thechilternturbo1185]

As said you need the Optimiser on 24/7. I have both mine connected up. Brave going out today, I followed the gritter through the village last night.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Bucks Biker Funnily enough I passed the gritter yesterday evening too (in my car) and was thinking I was glad I wasn't on the bike as it was flinging masses of the stuff - lovely out there today, the roads were pretty dry by late afternoon.....

[@busterrabbit]

Always best to use a proper charger/conditioner like an Optimate, especially for BMW twins which don't suffer weak batteries at all well. The ECU/clock and alarm if fitted all create a very small but constant drain on the battery. (check that any charger is CAN-BUS compatible if like BMWs your bike uses CAN-BUS)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yeah, I do use an optimate on all my bikes...just remembering to do so regularly if I've not ridden a particular bike for a while is the issue! Thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF

[@DukeDyson]

The Ethanol content (which is now around 10% in many brands of petrol) is very hygroscopic and petrol stored in a vented container (like your fuel tank) will attract moisture. the best bit of the fuel is the first to evaporate, leaving an ever increasing percentage of the less volatile stuff. Add to that the bacterial growth that the Ethanol supports and any such fuel is rubbish after about three months and virtually useless after six. Some of the super unleadeds contain no Ethanol and so don't suffer in the same way. The problems are less noticeable on a modern fuel injected engine but can be a monumental pain if you've got carbs, particularly old ones with brass components which get eaten by the modern stuff. During the winter months when my SV doesn't go out much, once a month I take it out for a hundred miles or so and then top it up with super unleaded.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+DukeDyson Hey DD, good to hear from you - I wondered where you had got too, time for some new videos eh? I was quoting from an article from John Rowland, Silkolene's top automotive research chemist - but I have also read articles that back-up your theory that it's the good stuff that goes first and it generally becomes harder to ignite over time. In my own experience, I've never known petrol to not ignite even when I've stored it for years (albeit that refers to my moped days and my old petrol lawnmower!!). Great to hear from you again, hope you're keeping well, all the best....TMF

[@DukeDyson]

+TheMissendenFlyer So much conflicting evidence eh. Vids have been a bit thin on the ground here, work is taking up far too much of my time. Loving your output, very well produced. Take care and ride safe, summer's coming :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+DukeDyson Thanks DD, work always gets in the way of fun eh? Roll on Summer.....

[@Jojikiba]

Nice video! (but around 4:40 you're doing over the speed limit a bit mate 🏍️. I know it's only by a bit in this case, but I want to remind everyone -- speeding kills. Ride safe and have fun folks).

[@beardedbiker8367]

I didn't start or ride my 1999 cbr for 14 months, took the battery off when I put it away, put it back on after a quick charge and with a bit of choke she fired straight up on the old fuel and on carbs, no stuttering at all and hasn't missed a beat all month

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Brilliant...some bikes just work don't they....

[@shaneweightman]

good video,,,my gripe with Triumph,,,,my speed triple is when you turn ignition on both headlights are on,, before you start the bike ,,,not good for a low battery ,,this didn't happen on my zx10r the headlight came on once the bike had fired up,,minor criticism but annoying cheers shane

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+shaneweightman Yes it is a weird one that, the lights were bright too, sucking all that energy and preventing me starting the thing!!!

[@iandavies6620]

My ZZR1400 is the same. Side lights first then headlights once the engine has fired.

[@mickeypopa]

Don't know if it's possible on the Triple, but rewiring the main lights from battery to alternator should fix that issue. In that case, you'd obviously need a voltage regulator hooked up so you don't fry them.

[@HiVizSmiley]

I obviously can't speak for your location but here in the States it's quite the opposite with gasoline. Gas that has sat for 20 years run in just about anything, this ethanol blend fuel we have now turns to green fuzzies in no time.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Hi-Viz Smiley ...yes I think you're much more into your ethanol than we are :0) Thanks for watching and stopping by, love it that I have viewers from around the world....all the best - TMF

[@2jj-k3x]

Peter Rabot I do but it’s more of a “better save than sorry” step to winterising your bike

[@MsDenver2]

Do you think you might have to many bikes if your not riding them enough?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Is that even possible?

[@jDot2414]

My Harley has been sitting for a month in garage. Is it bad to just start it and let it run for 10 mins or so? Or is that pointless ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Only do that of you are going to properly warm it up (ie until at least the fan kicks in) - if it's not properly hot you can cause more condensate to form inside the engine (and encourage internal corrosion).

[@jDot2414]

@@TheMissendenFlyer thanks. I’m in florida weather is warm . Garage isn’t air conditioning. I have a humidifier running though. . Hadn’t road it in a month . How long should I let it run for would you suggest? It’s my first bike.

[@morgansteele8128]

Agree with the US poster about ethanol: add a fuel stabilizer or drain your tank. Otherwise, you'll be dealing with a service especially if you're running a carb engine.

[@Perkelenaattori]

If you have a carburated bike that you're storing for the winter, I've noticed that adding a bit of "small engine gasoline" that's meant for chainsaws and lawnmowers works great. It has less ethanol so it doesn't clog the tiny carb vents. Just adding a few liters will do.

[@chrisheggie952]

You only spoke of fuel and battery charge, how about (with very long term lay offs) oil stasis in engine/gearbox and suspension? Of course we don't always plan for these things but I believe new oil and a suspension service prior to storage is a good precaution. I have seen some pretty gungy crud come out of the sump and forks/shock after years of inactivity! Also flat spots on old tyres if the bike is not on a stand.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes very good points both!

[@kilosalamanca]

Its at times like those I'm glad most of my bikes still have points and kickstarters.

[@DAGenao]

Hi TMF, have you ever considered using a battery tender to keep your battery charged during the winter season? It works great.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+DAGenao Yep, in fact I have one connected to all four of my bikes (now)....

[@TheRealMaturecheese]

Doesn't petrol with ethanol (E5 and E10) in it attract water if left standing too long which then gathers in the bottom of the tank causing corrosion?

[@antoniorussell9893]

That Striple sounds lovely.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Antonio Russell Thank you - they are rather tuneful to my ears too :0)

[@jasonstevens4838]

Great vid, I put the triumph heated grips on mine a few weeks ago and they are a revelation. Tricky to install but very good.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Jason Stevens I didn't realise they made an "official" set - will certainly look these out as potential for freezing hands is one of the things that does stop me riding this bike over my others with heated grips....thanks for the kind words, all the best - TMF

[@charlieryan1736]

Beautiful clean bike, thanks for making this video

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching Charlie...

[@TiagoSilva-tx9hz]

Good question :/ I hate leaving my street triple in the garage for months but the weather sucks..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+TripleObsession Yep, sure does! .....I share your pain!

[@MrSimonfoz]

Nice bike mate, i leave my Multistrada for 3 months at a time due to work overseas. I always try and leave it on the centre stand to stop flat spots on the tyres. Or use some carpet under them if you haven't got one.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Simon Foster Thanks Simon, great tip! Thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF

[@timholt8141]

My old Harley doesn't get used November to March. Always starts and runs sweet after a battery charge.!! My old 1200 Bandit however is a different kettle of fish altogether, Leave it a couple of weeks and it coughs, farts, runs on 3 "never the same pot" and generally miss behaves until properly warmed through then runs ok. Will run superbly if used daily but really doesn't like being sat in the garage. :-)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yeah it's odd isn't it - my little Honda CRF can sit for 2 months and then always fires up first shot - where as my Ducati and BMW both need trickle charging all the time if I'm not to get caught out! Thanks for watching Tim, good to have you along...all the best - TMF

[@SBKPete]

Hi TMF, Great to see the Street Triple once again 👍🏻 Looks great in black with gold wheels. Eight weeks you say, I haven't ridden my Speed Triple since October 😕

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+SBKPete Oops - Good luck with that then! ...and yes I reckon the black and gold was/is the best colour combination for the STR. Good to hear from you again, I hope all is well??

[@onahi2002]

probably been asked before. but why didn't you video the eventual start? my two worries about leaving the bike are 1) oil. if the oil sinks down into the sump. when you start it will there be metal on metal at the top ? 2) I've always been told that starting a bike to run it up to normal running temp is bad. as it will create condensation in cooler areas. water inside the case ? what you recon ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Nigel Collinson ...I had put my SLR away and was suited up by then is the real reason - rubbish I know...and yes I agree with (1) and meant to mention that in the video but forgot (that's the problem with doing these off the cuff) and I've heard (2) as well so tend not to do that either....cheers for stopping by and commenting, all the best - TMF

[@handsfree1000]

I bought an old Kawasaki zephyr some time ago (lovely looking bike) turned out to have a petrol leak (in spite of its new MOT 😱) it had spent a few years not being used and the ethanol they put in petrol (I have been told) attracts moisture and caused the tank to rust through from the inside. My conclusion is drain the tank if it’s not going to be used for a long time.

[@lv0ll9]

I dont see a problem keeping it standing for a bit, my little Honda CBR125R stood still for 6 months due to personal stuff, started first time as always after a quick charge, even longer should be fine, if battery is charged there should be 0 problems.

[@mattploij2673]

I'm gearing up to head back home to where my 64 plate Thruxton has been sitting dormant since November 2015... Good to know the fuel should be ok.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Matt Dennis .....battery may need a charge though!

[@mattploij2673]

+TheMissendenFlyer It has the Thacham alarm fitted... so it would have been flat after about a week!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Matt Dennis Eek!

[@JFHoupert]

Here in Canada when I put my bike away for 5-6 months for the winter, I plug it into a battery tender and the bike and battery are no worse for wear.

[@paultalbot3236]

Love riding this time of year-No Bugs!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes good point Paul - I don't miss those either!

[@lurchonabike]

Left my 650 Deau for 7 weeks once. No charging, no nothing as I was out the country. Came back, 2 seconds on the starter, wait 30 seconds for the carbs to refloat, then straight in and off it went! I suppose it has no gadgets other than the basic passive HISS immobiliser and the LCD clock to drain the battery. Got a Sprint ST now, so might need to consider an Optimate for it. RS!!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Lurch OnABike That's the way to do it! Love the Sprint ST - I used to lust after a red one with white powder coated wheels, gorgeous bike....enjoy (and good to hear from you again!)

[@lurchonabike]

I was hoping to find a red one, but the late ST with the GT nose seemed to be hard to find.

[@kjetilsenNOWAY]

Fuel left in the tank can lead to rust in the tank. That is why fuel stabilizers exist. There is also a lot of different petrol fuels in the world that react differently. Would not risk gas in the tank for over 3 months without stabilizers.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I'm not sure where you are based but here in the UK I personally am satisfied that petrol is fine for longer than 3 months in the tank (mine usually is!)...

[@kjetilsenNOWAY]

@@TheMissendenFlyer My point is that it is probably true in the UK, but not in all countries. If you store the bike in a place with temperature changes it may also differ. In Norway some store their bikes outside for half a year in a garage without insolation or heating. It is probably ok, until it's not. Fuel stabilisers are cheap, and rusted tanks is a pain.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

For sure...

[@alanedward6577]

I have a 2012 ZZR 1400 not started since 28 October 16 ,no battery charging ,started 1st time yesterday !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

....nice one!

[@bobfisheruk]

Hi. You did not mention the possible effect of starting the engine after a long term when there is a possibility of the lubrication Oil draining from surfaces like the Cylinder Walls, or is it perhaps that now with modern Lubricants this is no longer an issue?

[@bernhardkaiser6887]

+Bob Fisher i think this shouldnt be an issue. never thought about bikes, but when my car stood still for some longer preiod of time, you can actually hear the pistons scraping on the first two or so revolutions, i believe.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Bob Fisher ....actually I did mean to mention that Bob but forgot (the problem with doing these unscripted and "off the cuff"!) - good point, if you leave the machine too long the lubrication will drain away from the cylinder walls at least....

[@DARisse-ji1yw]

Do you have fuel with added ethanol ? I live in the US midwest... tough to ride in blizzards. Our fuel has 10 to 15 percent ethanol.... supposed to be good for the environment... and corn producers. It's hydroscopic, pulls water into the fuel, and plays hell with corrosion in tanks, fuel pumps, carbs, etc. I have to drain the tanks & dry them before putting my bikes to bed for the winter. Batteries go on trickle chargers in the basement. Had no problems back when pure gasoline was available !

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

We do have some ethanol content but I believe it’s less than in the US....

[@DrRobert7898]

Hi TMF great subject again. Apparently there can be problems with the fuel because of the 10% of ethanol in the fuel these days. The ethanol absorbs moisture from the air and goes to the bottom of the tank and causes corrosion. How long that takes I don't know. When I have stored my Z1000 for the winter I brim the tank and add a fuel stabiliser and never had a problem and it starts first time on the button. I do other things as well to the bike to keep it good for when it's used again. I doubt you would have any trouble with the period you left your Triumph.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers John, good info as ever, thanks for watching and stopping by once again - TMF

[@chrismccartney8668]

Fuel with more ethanol does not last it collects water....

[@richardpearson4248]

The triumph looks fantastic 🇬🇧👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you...

[@steffydog]

I leave my STR RX on charge permanently, job done, keep the videos coming :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I might have to start thinking about doing the same...and will do - cheers- TMF

[@tjday64]

Love those gold wheels.... great looking bike.... I'll keep a look out for you..... Me , I'm on and MT 01 ....Happy Vlogging Flyer..

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers!

[@decidedtoride]

wrt to petrol, not so important with bikes, but say if you had a performance car that required 98 RON, you might be more inclined to brim the tank again to rejuvenate the octane level. Sure it will start after a few weeks, but I know I notice the difference in performance if I haven't filled up for month.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes good point, my understanding is the fuel does loose it's oomph (by which I mean its readiness to ignite) if left for a period of time....

[@TwoWheelReview]

Very surprised the battery didn't work, my Varadero 125 started first time after being left for 4 months!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Two Wheel Review Me too as you saw! ....I think my battery may be on the way out so I'll be watching carefully for the next few rides. Thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF

[@MotoGoYo]

+TheMissendenFlyer They don't like the colder temperatures. Same with taking video equipment out to colder locations. Even pro-gear goes through far more batteries in the cold than warmer temps. Bikes are the same. I've gone through more batteries on my motorhome than I can remember over winter - even with trickle charging. If you leave it for a long time, with a number of bikes, you could have a battery store cupboard in the house and bring them indoors :-)

[@NishadAbdulkhader]

I would like to store my bike for at least 11 months ..can you suggest a good additive to add in the gasoline tank to avoid gum formation ..thanks

[@whittlad]

Have you tried using a solar powered trickle charger? I tried the Oxford one and it only lasted a few weeks but Maplins have a version which is much bigger and better and is holding the voltage very well for my Multi Enduro

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

No I Haven't...mainly due to the fact we have no sun most of the time!

[@whittlad]

Might be worth doing a long term review on your KZbin channel. My trickle charger is working fine down here in deepest darkest Kent and it doesn't need sunlight (just light) to provide a charge.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Sounds good....

[@kjvbiblebelievertal7431]

When I bought my bike, I have a 2022 Harley Davidson XL883N Iron 883 with only 1200 km on it at time of purchase, My bike was in storage for almost a year at the dealership because I had to wait to get my GDL license to insure and bring my bike home. I was wondering, could the spark plugs go bad after siting for that length of time not running. Recently I noticed that one time I started up my Harley, I heard this little backfire from the exhaust pipe. In my opinion, I think that these are the original spark plugs that came with the bike in 2022. I am thinking about installing new spark plugs in my bike.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Won’t do any harm….

[@rumblebumble1196]

I know that feeling with a flat battery on my seldom used triple! The sun was out i got suited up and then nothing on the button :( Now got a nice new battety and she lives on the optimiser...... still have not found a decent priced set of carbon heel guards :)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+RumbleBumble675 Yeah I think I may be heading the way of a new battery....(and all carbon parts are expensive it seems - good luck!...)

[@decidedtoride]

Headlights still looked bright enough... I wonder if flipping the kill switch off and on would have done the trick? Sometimes I've had to do that on mine (weird, I know).

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I tried that (gets the fuel pump to reprime) but made no difference in this case - a quick charge up made all the difference....I reckon my battery is on the way out so will be monitoring it over the next few weeks. Cheers for stopping by once again, good to hear from you....

[@decidedtoride]

Ah yes, didn't consider the age of the battery. I had to buy a tender charger 3 days into owning my Triple because no-one explained that the lights stay on if you turn the key as far left as possible (which I assumed was the steering lock position - hadn't got to that part of the manual yet). That was a fun day.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Decided to Ride eek - I must RTFM!!!

[@pauldavies5199]

I have my 03 Hornet plugged into an optimate 4 and charge it twice a week for at least 24 hrs each time. If I don't ride it or start it for maybe 10 days it has to be bump started

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Paul Davies Yeah sounds about right Paul, bit of a pain isn't it - I couldn't start the Panigale yesterday, it had only sat there unridden for about 5 days (mind you it does have an industrial grade alarm/tracker drawing power all the time)...

[@pauldavies5199]

+TheMissendenFlyer I have quite a steep driveway and as usual when I need to do the bump start no one is around to help me push it up. By the time I reach the top of the drive I'm knackered :) Just watched a few of your Ducati videos, very nice mate

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Paul Davies Yeah bummer - I have a gravel drive, that makes things easy with bikes too! ...and thanks, who doesn't love the look of a Ducati eh??

[@andresilveirah]

Nice video! I've noticed that the wind noise is not a big issue when you're driving. Could you talk a bit about your mics setup? Cheers!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+André Herculano Just an e-Bay special sellotaped to the inside of the helmet - you have to do a bit of experimentation I think is the key. Thanks for stopping by, all the best - TMF.

[@fleetser07]

Triple sounds mint 👌🏼

[@RamblinRoverMatt]

Just left a comment and it failed so ill try again! haha Good stuff man! Thanks for the tips and reminders, I should prob get a battery tender on my crf250l when I go a few weeks without ridin it, just in case :) Keep it up budday!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

+Ramblin'Rider Cheers RR - yes I have one of those battery tender leads on my CRF as well (just in case) - although I have been riding that a fair amount of late so hopefully I won't have a repeat of this issue....thanks for stopping by!

[@jeffferguson7256]

I leave my bike on a maintainer at all times when I am not on it. works a treat, always a topped off battery!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes good idea, I have one maintainer that I swap between each of my bikes when I'm not riding...as you say, works a treat. Cheers - TMF

[@phil1898]

Nice looking bike! Got me dreaming again lol Grab (or better still buy!) a lithium jump starter from amazon. They'll turn over a small car engine so should cope with a bike and they're small and light enough to carry on the bike or put in a backpack. I carry one in my car's glovebox, just charge it every so often from a USB phone charger.

[@mikehoncho4258]

Just got a 2008 street triple 675 I have to flush the coolant and oil and oil filter . I forgot about the air filter need a battery charger. It's my for bike good video