Checklists › Winter lay-up checklist

Winter lay-up checklist

Putting the bike away until spring? Work through this and it'll come out the way it went in. Our winter storage guide explains each step.

Last checked: 2 November 2026

Clean and protect

• Wash it and let it dry completely, including under the seat
• Clean and lube the chain
• Put a protective spray on bare metal (keep it off the brakes and tyres)

Fuel, oil and coolant

• Fill the tank to cut down on condensation, and add a fuel stabiliser if the handbook suggests one
• Change the oil and filter now, so old oil isn't sitting in the engine all winter
• Check the coolant is the right strength for frost

Battery and tyres

• Connect a battery optimiser, or take the battery out and charge it every few weeks
• Pump the tyres up to the right pressure
• Put it on a paddock or centre stand to take the weight off the tyres

Store it safely

• Use a breathable cover, not a plastic sheet
• Lock it to a ground anchor, and set the alarm if it has one
• Bung the exhaust and air intake against mice, with a tag on the bars to remind you to take them out

Paperwork

• Decide: keep it taxed and insured, or make a SORN (see our SORN guide)
• Ask your insurer about laid-up cover for theft and fire
• Note when the MOT runs out, so it doesn't catch you out in spring

Back on the road in spring

• Take the bungs out
• Refit or charge the battery
• Check tyre pressures, chain tension, brakes, lights and fluid levels
• Insure it, check the MOT, then tax it if it was SORN
• Take the first ride gently while the tyres warm up

Sources

• GOV.UK: When you need to make a SORN
• GOV.UK: Tax your vehicle

General guidance, not a substitute for your bike's handbook or a mechanic's inspection. Tickover is independent and not affiliated with the DVLA or DVSA.

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