Winter Harley-Davidson Care: Preserve Your Ride and Battery Life
As winter settles into Vermont, your cherished Harley-Davidson rests in the garage, tempting you to start it up and chase away the seasonal blues. While we respect your love for your motorcycle's roaring engine, there are essential reasons to consider before you give in to the temptation.
Your buddy, Glenn, might encourage you to fire up your Street Glide and rev the engine to maintain the battery, but here's why you should reconsider:
- Moisture Accumulation: Starting your Harley-Davidson motorcycle in winter introduces unwelcome moisture to various components. Cold air clings to warm surfaces, leading to pitting, rust, and other cosmetic issues on your chrome, blacked-out parts, and paint. Additionally, as you know, your Harley-Davidson engine already contains moisture in its oil. During a typical ride, this moisture is expelled through the exhaust due to operating temperatures. However, idling or short revving sessions trap this moisture on vital components, such as the cylinders. This is not healthy and ends up creating wear when it isn’t necessary.
- Battery Life: To fully charge your Harley-Davidson's battery, it needs a 30-minute ride. This cannot be replicated in your driveway. When you start your motorcycle, the battery drops to 9.6 volts, but this quickly returns to 12.6 volts or higher at idle. While riding, the regulator maintains the battery between 13.5 to 15.0 volts, ensuring optimal charging. However, idling doesn't replenish the battery adequately, and multiple revs won't compensate for the initial power drain during startup.
So, what's the best way to safeguard your Harley-Davidson's battery this winter?
The Ideal Solution: For effective winter care and battery preservation, consider investing in a Harley-Davidson Battery Tender. Simply plug it in and let it work its magic, ensuring your battery remains in optimal condition until the first warm day arrives.
Remember, it's your Harley, and you can decide how to care for it. If the joy of hearing your motorcycle's engine in winter is non-negotiable, we understand and support your choice.
However, if you wish to extend your battery's life and protect your bike's vital components, the Battery Tender is your best friend during the colder months.
By making these considerations, you can keep your Harley-Davidson in prime condition and look forward to exhilarating rides when the weather warms up.
