How Long Can Royal Enfield Bikes Be Stored Properly?

For those who own a Royal Enfield (RE) bike, knowing how long you can store your beloved ride without having to worry about maintenance can greatly alleviate any concerns. From my experience with my Bullet 500 UCE 2015 carburettor model, you can store your RE bike for up to 3 months without riding it and without even turning it on. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you store your Royal Enfield efficiently and ensure it stays well-maintained during storage.

Essential Steps for Storing Your Royal Enfield

Protocol #1: Fuelling Up with 5 Litres of Fuel
One of the most crucial steps is to refill your fuel tank with about 5 litres of petrol. This step not only ensures that your fuel line remains clean and prevents rust but also helps in keeping the fuel in the tank fresh. Just like a regular ride, it's important to maintain your fuel by topping it up.

Protocol #2: A Detailed Wash
A thorough wash of your Royal Enfield is necessary to remove any dirt and grime that may have accumulated. A clean bike not only looks better but also prevents rust and corrosion. Ensure to clean every inch of the bike, paying extra attention to the wheels and exhaust.

Protocol #3: Lubricating the Moving Parts and Electricals
Lubrication is key to ensuring the smooth operation of your bike's moving parts such as chains, gears, and cables. Apply an appropriate lubricant to ensure that these components move smoothly without wearing out. The same goes for your bike's electrical components to prevent corrosion and ensure they function correctly when you start riding again.

Protocol #4: Adjusting the Tyres for Storage
Depending on the climate and the duration of your storage, you may need to inflate your tyres a little more. This adjustment helps to counteract any deflation that may occur due to changes in air pressure. In warmer climates, tyres may expand; in cooler climates, they may contract. Proper inflation ensures that your tyres maintain good contact with the road when you return to riding.

Preventing Damage: Keeping Cats and Rats at Bay

While you can't completely prevent cats and rats from making a mess of your bike, you can take some preventive steps to minimize their impact.

Tip #1: Protecting the Seat
Cats and their natural scratching behavior can damage your bike's seat. To avoid this, cover your seat with a material that cats cannot scratch. This might include a heavy-duty fabric or even a piece of steel mesh. Ideally, you can use a cat-proof material that is both comfortable and durable. On the other hand, rats can be more elusive, and there's no single solution. However, using repellent products meant for these pests can help, or you might find praying to Ganpati Bappa Lord Ganesha particularly effective in deterring them.

Tip #2: Waterproofing Your Bike
Investing in a high-quality waterproof cover is a must. While some covers may claim to be waterproof, it's better to seek out a cover that has undergone rigorous testing. A cover that is truly waterproof, such as the Zeus 4XL, can help protect your bike from moisture and other weather elements. Make sure to cover your bike thoroughly and consider adding some weights to the corners if you're storing it in a windy location.

Final Thoughts: Reassuring Your Royal Enfield

As you prepare to store your Royal Enfield, it's also essential to offer some words of reassurance to your bike. Think of your Royal Enfield as a loyal companion that has been there through thick and thin. By showing it care and keeping it well-maintained, you can ensure that it remains in top shape for when you're ready to ride again.

Remember, metal can indeed have emotions, and your Royal Enfield deserves to know that you care. Tell it that it will be okay and that you are stronger than you think. Just as you would treat your most prized possession with care, so too should you care for your Royal Enfield during storage.