As the days get colder and the sun sets sooner, you are probably using your boat, motorcycle, ATV, or classic car much less. Additionally, if you haven’t already done so, now is the time to start putting your summer toys away for the winter, and make sure they’re properly stored for the upcoming months.
Storing a Classic Car
We’re big classic car lovers at Paradiso Insurance, so we understand how important it is to keep your classic car protected and safe. Before you put your classic car away for the winter, make sure to properly wash it first, any residue or grime leftover from the summer months can cause corrosion and damage to the body over the winter. Additionally, your classic car should be covered or housed in an insulated garage to protect it from the harsh elements. Your classic car should also have fresh oil in it to prevent it from locking up while sitting, the last thing you’d want come springtime is to find out your classic car’s engine is damaged because it hasn’t been running. For more information on storing your classic, check out this article.
Storing a Motorcycle
Similar to a classic car, motorcycles will need a bit of care before being stored away for the winter. To make sure your bike is safe and sound when the first frost hits, store your bike in a dry and dark space. Next, be sure to top off all fluids and change the oil. You should also consider removing your motorcycle’s battery to prevent it from dying while your bike is unused.
Finally, make sure your motorcycle is clean and washed before you store it. Dirt and other road particles can affect the integrity of your bike.
Storing a Boat
Boating is a favorite past time of many in the summer, but as lakes start to freeze up and the water gets much colder, we don’t recommend taking your boat out anytime soon. That’s why it’s important to properly store it, just like any other summer toys you currently own.
First, you’ll want to wash your boat and remove any perishable items that can go bad during the next few months. Next, be sure to protect and rust proof any metal components on your boat that will be exposed to the harsh elements.
When storing your boat for the winter, consider storing it in your own backyard with a cover securely fastened to the top of it. If your boat is too big to store at home, you can also opt to store it at a self storage facility. This can be pricey, but is a great option if you don’t have the space.
Storing an ATV
While ATVs can be used a bit longer in the colder months, we don’t recommend using them in the snow. While ATVs are built for tough terrain and traveling through wooded areas, that doesn’t mean they should be driven over ice or snow. To keep yourself safe and your ATV running at its best, store it in a safe place or cover it with fabric. Before you put it away make sure you fully clean your ATV, drain the fuel tank, change the oil, and fill the tires to the correct amount. Taking these steps will ensure your ATV is ready to use come springtime.
While putting your summer toys away for the winter may seem a bit disheartening, you can still enjoy the fun of using a toy in the winter with a snowmobile! If you’re looking to own or currently have snowmobiles at your home, make sure you have the right insurance to enjoy riding without worry. Click the button below for a free quote on snowmobile insurance today.
