Yes, It’s Worth the Effort.
If you think winter storage is just for garage queens and trailer princesses, think again. Your Honda VT may be reliable as hell, but even the toughest machines need proper off season care. Whether you ride a VT750, VT600 (VLX), or VT1100, some simple maintenance and smart storage steps can mean the difference between a trouble free spring start or a wrench throwing nightmare.
Here’s how to keep your Honda VT happy while it hibernates, and ready to rip when the sun comes back out.
Step 1: Clean It Like You Mean It.
Yes, it’s tempting to park it dirty and deal with it later. Don’t!
That road grime, brake dust, and bug guts? They’ll eat into chrome and paint like battery acid over the winter.
Wash the bike thoroughly using motorcycle safe soap.
Degrease the chain and swingarm (or driveshaft area if applicable).
Dry it completely. Especially around electrical connectors and inside the fairing or under the seat.
Finish with a good coat of wax or protectant to keep moisture and corrosion at bay.
Pro tip: Use compressed air to blow out water from hard-to-reach places. Moisture is your enemy.
Step 2: Fuel System? Treat It or Drain It.
Gasoline doesn’t age well. It turns to varnish and clogs jets, especially in carbureted VTs (we’re looking at you, VT600).
Option A: Add Fuel Stabilizer
Fill the tank to prevent rust.
Add stabilizer like STA-BIL or SeaFoam.
Run the engine for 5 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
Option B: Drain It
If you’ve got a carb model and you're storing for 3+ months, draining the tank and float bowls is smarter.
Turn the petcock off and run the bike dry, or drain the carbs manually.
For fuel-injected VT750s: Use stabilizer only, no need to drain.
Step 3: Battery? Don’t Kill It, Charge It.
Letting your battery die over winter? Classic rookie move.
Remove it and store it inside (climate controlled is ideal).
Hook it up to a smart trickle charger or battery tender.
Leaving it on the bike? disconnect the negative terminal at minimum.
Coming spring, you’ll thank yourself for not needing a jump start or a trip to the parts store.
Step 4: Tires? No Flat Spots, Please.
Sitting in one spot for months can give your tires permanent flat spots. Especially if they’re underinflated or old.
Inflate to the max recommended PSI.
Move the bike slightly every couple of weeks to prevent uneven wear.
Even better: get it off the ground using a center stand, paddock stand, or blocks under the frame.
If you’re leaving it on concrete, park it on wood or carpet squares to reduce moisture wicking into the rubber.
Step 5: Fluids, Chain & Lube.
Fluids break down and attract moisture over time, especially if they’re already dirty.
Change the oil before storage.
Lube the chain generously (or shaft grease check, if applicable).
Top off coolant if you’ve got a liquid cooled model.
Check brake fluid and clutch fluid (VT750s and 1100s use hydraulic systems).
Clean and lube control cables (throttle, clutch) and pivot points while you’re at it. Your future self will be grateful.
Step 6: Cover Up (But Don’t Suffocate It).
Use a breathable motorcycle cover to keep dust and moisture out. Don’t wrap it in plastic unless you want a mold colony next spring.
If you’re storing indoors in a dry space, a simple dust cover is fine. If outdoors, spend the money on a proper weatherproof cover that secures at the bottom.
Bonus Tips: Vermin Patrol.
Mice love warm, quiet engine bays and airboxes. Take precautions:
Plug the exhaust with steel wool or a rubber cap.
Cover air intake openings (but mark them clearly so you remember to remove them).
dryer sheets under the seat or around the bike can help deter rodents.
Spring StartUp Checklist.
When it’s finally time to ride again:
Remove plugs from exhaust/intake.
Reinstall battery and test electrics.
Check tire pressure and fluids.
Fire it up and let it idle a while before romping on the throttle.
Final Thoughts.
Your Honda VT might be low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean no maintenance. A little attention during winter goes a long way toward keeping it sharp, safe, and road ready. Take care of it now, and it’ll repay you with a season of trouble free rides.
Got your own winter prep ritual or storage hack?
Tag @PRNCPL on Instagram. We want to see your setup.
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