Ceiling Bike Lift - Preparing a bike for storage?

Preparing a bike for storage?

In about a week I'll be leaving for a while.. I'm a Marine and I'm going to California for training and then to Iraq. Bottom line, my 2003 Kawasaki ZX6R will be left in my garage and most likely will not be ridden for at least 6-10 months. Is there anything I should do to keep it in good condition? Would it help if I got someone to start it up and let it idle once a week? I just don't want it to be messed up when I get back.

Public Comments

theres quite a few things you need to do other questions have been asked about motorbike storage on yahoo answers, look them up!
no don't get some 1 to start it up , prolonged idling glazes the bore. this is my opinion only, run it on 2stroke fuel for 1 hour riding before storage, polish the paint work, spray lube. dw40 all metal,that can rust, take off the wheels so hard spots don't form in the rubber, store the wheels off the ground, if you carnt take the wheels off park the bike on wood at least 2 inches thick. don't wrap it up in too many layers of sheets , it has to breath or it will sweat , and disconnect the battery, the 2stroke fuel will stop rust in the tank ,and rust in the bores, i would do a major service when you restart it, replace all filters, oil, fuel, spark plugs, coolant, brake fluid, good luck ,,
Winter storage guide http://totalmotorcycle.com/maintenance/motorcyclewinterstorage.htm
If the previous anwser about wrapping it up and such will not fit your predicament at least fill the tank with gasoline and pour in a fuel stabilizer such as "stabil". Then ride the bike a few miles to make sure the mixture has reached the carbs. Refill the tank to stop condensation and park it with the battery on a battery tender. It'll be ready to ride next year when you are. I just brought back to life a Yamaha 1300royal star that had been sitting for 9 years! 1,616 miles on the clock. The owner neglected to even drain the carbs or fill the tank. Nothing, just rode it into the garage and shut it off and forgot it. I have been over 30 hours cleaning the carbs on this and finally got them right. Fuel conditioner or stabilizer, wax and treat the chrome and other rust-ables to a coat of WD40 Good Luck and Thank You for your service and dedication to protect my family and me!