LONG-TERM
STORAGE GUIDE
Zero Motorcycles
December 20, 2024
How to Prepare Your Zero motorcycle for Winter Storage
When winter rolls around, or if you're simply taking a break from riding, it’s the perfect time to show your Zero motorcycle some love. Whether you're parking it for a few weeks or a long winter hibernation, proper storage is key to keeping your Zero road-ready. Think beyond just stashing your bike—it’s about protecting your investment so it’s primed for action whenever you are.
1. Clean Your Bike Thoroughly
Before you tuck your Zero away, give it a good scrub-down. Cleaning your bike ensures dirt, salt, and grime don’t damage its components over time.
- Wash with care: Grab a hose, a sponge, and some mild detergent—nothing harsh here. Avoid high-pressure washers that could damage electrical components.
- Dry completely: Once clean, dry your bike thoroughly, paying close attention to the brakes and suspension. A careful wipe-down helps prevent rust or corrosion in sensitive spots.
2. Choose the Right Storage Space
Where you store your bike is almost as important as how you store it. You’ll want to keep your Zero in a cool, dry place to ensure the longevity of its battery and components.
- Cool is key: To prolong the life of your power pack, ideal storage temperatures are between 10–35°C.
- Indoor is best: Store your Zero indoors to protect it from the elements. If you’re storing your bike in a garage or shed, make sure it’s free of any pests that could damage the bike. If outdoor storage is your only option, use a breathable, weather-resistant cover to shield your bike from moisture and dirt.
Store your Zero inside to keep it in peak condition, ready for the next ride.
3. Stay connected
Your Zero’s battery is the lifeblood of the bike, and keeping it healthy is a must—even when you're not riding.
- Plug in for maintenance: Keep your bike plugged into its charger so the Battery Management System (BMS) can maintain its charge.
- Trickle charge the 12V battery: Additionally, use an approved trickle charger on the 12V battery to keep it in shape. Note: FX, FXE, all legacy S, DS, DSR (prior to 2024) and SR (prior to 2022) models do not require a trickle charger.
4. Let the BMS Do Its Job
The Battery Management System (BMS) is designed to look after your bike’s battery while it’s in storage.
- Optimal charge level: After 30 days, the BMS will drain the battery to about 80% SoC. This helps maintain the battery’s health during periods of inactivity, ensuring it stays in good shape for when you’re ready to ride again.
- Check periodically: Every 30 days, turn the key to check the battery's state of charge (SoC). If you're not plugged in and your SoC has fallen below 30%, it's time to charge.
5. Get Your Zero Ready to Ride
When you’re ready to take your Zero out of storage, it’s time for a quick wake-up routine to get everything back in shape.
- Pre-ride checks: Disconnect the charger, turn the key on, and raise the side stand. Set the bike to ‘Run’ mode, then turn it off to reset the system.
- Recharging: Charge your bike for 24 hours before your first ride. This allows the cells to balance and ensures optimal performance.
That’s it? Yes, that’s really it. While prepping a petrol bike for winter or a long break means a laundry list of tasks like oil changes, tank top-ups, and carburettor draining, getting your Zero ready is refreshingly simple.
Proper care during storage helps ensure that your Zero stays in top shape for years to come and avoids battery damage that could result in costly repairs not covered under warranty. Protect your investment by following the recommended storage routine, and your Zero will be ready for many more adventures ahead.
Neutrino
