Winter can be hard on all parts of a motorcycle or ATV, but the battery often takes the biggest hit. We understand that Chicago’s winter temperatures can lead to drained or damaged batteries if left in the cold without proper care. Whether you’re storing a motorcycle, ATV, or even a snowmobile, there are specific steps you can take to maintain your battery’s health through the winter months. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you protect your battery and ensure a perfect start in the spring.
A motorcycle or ATV battery is vulnerable in cold weather. When temperatures drop, the battery’s chemical reactions slow, reducing its ability to hold a charge and deliver power. If left idle in freezing conditions, the battery may drain, suffer from sulfation (a buildup that reduces charge capacity), or even freeze if it’s not fully charged. Proactive maintenance over the winter keeps your battery healthy and ensures it’s ready when you are.
For most powersport vehicles, the best option is to remove the battery completely if it will be idle for extended periods. Removing it allows you to store the battery in a warmer, more temperature-controlled environment, like a garage or even indoors. This reduces exposure to extreme temperatures, which can cause the battery to discharge or freeze. Removing the battery also prevents any accidental electrical draw, which could drain it.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your battery healthy through winter is to use a trickle charger or battery tender. These devices deliver a low-level charge to your battery continuously, maintaining it at an ideal charge level without overcharging. A fully charged battery is much more resilient to the cold, and trickle chargers ensure you’re not left with a dead battery come spring. If you need help selecting a charger, our team at EPM Motorsports can recommend the best option for your vehicle type.
Before storing the battery, take a few minutes to clean the terminals and connections. Dirt and corrosion on the terminals can lead to poor conductivity, weakening the battery’s performance. For effective cleaning, use a solution of baking soda and water with a brush to scrub away any buildup on the terminals. Rinse with clean water, dry thoroughly, and apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion. Clean terminals can make a huge difference in ensuring your battery’s efficiency and lifespan.
Even when stored, a battery can lose charge over time. Periodically checking the battery’s voltage can help you monitor its condition throughout winter. Using a voltmeter, ensure that the battery remains within its optimal range. If the charge dips below this range, connect it to the trickle charger to bring it back up. This extra step, though simple, prevents deep discharges that reduce a battery’s ability to hold a charge.
Batteries fare best in moderate temperatures, so store them somewhere warm, if possible, or at least off the cold concrete floor, which can draw heat from the battery. Place it on a wooden platform or insulated mat to avoid temperature extremes. Cold, unprotected storage is one of the main reasons batteries fail. We provide winter storage options that take care of temperature and environmental control to protect every aspect of your vehicle, including the battery.
If you’re unsure where to start or prefer a more hands-off approach, EPM Motorsports offers professional winter storage services tailored to keep your vehicle in peak condition. Our storage facilities ensure optimal temperatures, and we include regular maintenance checks, including battery care, so your vehicle is ready to ride come spring. We work with motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, other powersports and small-engine vehicles, ensuring that every part—from the battery to the carburetor—is kept in top condition through the colder months.
Investing in battery care during winter storage doesn’t just protect your current battery; it saves you money in the long run. Batteries that are left to drain fully over winter often lose capacity or die entirely, leading to replacement costs and extra hassle. Proper maintenance also helps prevent issues like sulfation, which can reduce the battery’s lifespan significantly. With a few steps—or with the help of professional storage at EPM Motorsports—you can extend your battery’s life by seasons or even years, saving on replacements.
Beyond battery care, we provide a full suite of services for all your powersports needs, including:
Winter doesn’t have to mean downtime for your vehicle; it’s a time to ensure your equipment is ready when the snow melts. From battery care to winter storage, EPM Motorsports provides the professional services you need to enjoy your ride without a hitch when spring returns.
If you’d like to discuss battery care, winter storage, or any other service, contact EPM Motorsports today. Call us at (773) 207-3730 or at info@epmmotorsports.com. We’re here to keep your vehicles ready to ride whenever you are!
