Winter waits for no one. Preparing your motorcycle properly means protecting the mechanics, maintaining performance, and riding off in the spring with a pristine machine. Here's the FCR Accessories expert guide to winterizing your Triumph , BMW R NineT/R12/R18, or any modern motorcycle, featuring a selection of technical accessories from our Winter Ready 2025 campaign.
Why prepare your motorcycle for winter
Cold, humidity, road salt, and prolonged periods of inactivity damage paint, oxidize metals, and degrade fluids. Proper preparation limits wear, prevents electrical and mechanical surprises, and preserves your motorcycle's value. At FCR Accessories , we've selected useful parts and kits to protect, maintain, and improve your machine during the cold season.
Pre-winter cleaning & care
We begin with a thorough cleaning: rims, swingarm, underside of the engine, and areas hidden beneath the fairings. Dry everything carefully, then apply a hydrophobic protective film to sensitive areas. K&N air filters receive a dedicated wash/oil treatment to ensure optimal airflow upon restarting.
- K&N air filter maintenance kit (BMW R NineT / Triumph) → see the collection
- K&N AirGuard filter socks for riding in wet conditions → see the collection
- Essential kits (R NineT / Triumph / Royal Enfield): consumables and basic tools
Engine protection & exposed components
Winter brings debris, thermal shock, and gravel. An engine guard protects the lower engine and exhaust manifolds. A radiator guard prevents impacts and reduces fouling of the fins. These protective measures are smart investments if you ride year-round.
Triumph Modern Classic
Engine guard and radiator grille shield → see the collection
BMW R NineT / R12
Heritage engine guard and New Heritage radiator grille → see the collection
BMW R18 Cruiser
Engine guard , dedicated protectors and mudguards to limit water spray → see
Filters & intake: breathe clean
A clogged filter disrupts the fuel mixture, increases fuel consumption, and diminishes the driving experience. Take advantage of winter storage to clean, oil, or even replace it. K&N components are designed for durability and are easy to rebuild.
- K&N Triumph filters (Bonneville, Thruxton RS, Bobber) → see the selection
- K&N filters for BMW (R NineT, R18) → see selection
- Complete filter kits for home maintenance
Chain & transmission
Clean the chain with a mild degreaser, dry it, then grease it on a warm strand. Adjust the tension according to the manual. Chain guards limit debris and keep the area clean.
Lighting & Visibility
The days are short, visibility is unpredictable. Check bulbs, connections, and headlight seals. A high-performance headlight kit , robust headlight grilles , and a windscreen will protect your vehicle and improve comfort on cold roads.
Technical checklist before storage
- Fuel : fill up + stabilizer additive if immobilizing for a long time.
- Battery : Keep it on a slow charge (smart charger). Disconnect if necessary.
- Tires : adjust the pressure, move the motorcycle regularly or put it on stands/paddles.
- Braking : check the thickness of the brake pads and the condition of the discs.
- Fluids : drain/top up if the deadline is approaching, especially before prolonged storage.
- Transmission : tension and lubrication done after riding.
- Fasteners : use a torque wrench on sensitive points.
Tip: Combine consumables and tools in an Essential Kit tailored to your model → see the Winter Ready collection
Smart storage during winter
Store in a dry place, away from UV rays and temperature fluctuations. Avoid damp floors and direct contact with cement: insulate the tires with a mat or blocks. Only run the engine for a few seconds if you can briefly bring it up to temperature; otherwise, refrain from doing so to avoid water condensation in the exhaust.
For protection, choose a breathable cover. More enveloping mudguards and FCR Accessories protectors will limit spray if you ride in winter. Discover our dedicated options for the BMW R18, BMW R NineT, and Triumph Modern Classic in the selection below.
Restart in the spring
Perform a complete check of the motorcycle: fluid levels, battery, tire pressure, brakes. Start the engine without opening the throttle, let the idle stabilize, then ride gently to allow everything to warm up. After a few kilometers, check the chain, fasteners, and tire pressure again.
Winter Ready 2025 Selection
Find all the parts and kits mentioned in this guide in our dedicated campaign:
→ FCR Accessories — Winter Ready 2025
Protection
- Engine guards (Triumph / BMW R NineT / R18)
- Radiator grilles (Triumph / BMW R12 New Heritage)
- Headlight grilles (BMW R NineT Heritage)
Interview
- K&N air filter maintenance kits
- K&N filters for Triumph & BMW
- AirGuard socks, essential kits
Comfort & visibility
- Triumph Modern Classic headlight kit
- BMW R NineT Windscreen
- BMW R18 front/rear mudguard
FAQ
What accessories are truly essential for winter?
Priority items include: an engine guard to protect the lower engine, a radiator guard against impacts, a K&N filter maintenance kit for clean airflow, and an essential kit specific to your motorcycle for minor repairs. Everything is included in the Winter Ready 2025 selection .
Should I remove the battery during winter storage?
Not necessarily. Ideally, you'd use a smart charger with trickle charge capability. If the motorcycle is stored in an unheated location without mains power access, you can remove the battery and store it in a dry place, fully charged and protected from frost.
Should you drive occasionally in winter?
Yes, if conditions permit. A ride of at least 20–30 minutes will bring everything up to temperature, evaporate moisture, and lubricate the chain. Equip the motorcycle with a windscreen and suitable fenders , and check the lights for maximum safety.
How to prevent corrosion and deposits?
Clean thoroughly before storing, dry, then apply a light protective coating to the metal parts. Lubricate the chain after a short ride. FCR Accessories (skid plates, guards, mudguards) also reduce exposure.
What tire pressure should I use for winter storage?
Maintain the recommended road tire pressure. If the motorcycle will be stored for an extended period, move it regularly or use stands/paddles to prevent flat spots.
