IF YOU are going to be braving the elements and using your motorcycle through the winter or if you prefer to opt out of the driving rain, gusting winds and treacherous road surfaces in favour of a pipe, slippers and a roaring fire, there are important steps you can take to ensure that your vehicle is still in optimum condition come the spring.

The important thing to remember about the winter months is that, as a rule, they are cold and wet.

These factors present a problem whether your bike is going to be out on the road or hibernating in your garage.

So let’s deal with those fearless winter riders first.

The biggest enemy of shiny, chromed motorcycles in the winter is salt. It’s on the roads and if it’s left on your bike, it will quickly cause corrosion.

It’s a good idea to regularly rinse your vehicle, paying particular attention to chrome-plated areas like fork tubes and wheel rims.

Rubbing synthetic oil like WD-40 into susceptible spots can also protect against corrosion. Salt can be a problem on the chain as well - so keep it dry, clean and well lubricated.

In addition there’s the obvious points like checking your lights are working properly and taking extra care in icy conditions. If your pride and joy is going to be riding out the winter in storage, there are still a number of steps to take. A bike’s alarm can run its battery flat over time, so invest in an Optimatic trickle charger, or similar.

That will keep the power-pack at its optimum level and you’re anti-theft device operational.

Some experts also recommend getting the bike’s wheels off the ground where possible to prevent uneven pressure causing damage to the tyre walls.

It’s a good idea to store your bike with as little fuel in it as possible. Unleaded petrol in particular has a tendency to decay and if this happens in the carburettor it can mean new spark plugs and a drain of the system.

Let any fuel out of the carb through the drain screws and use a fuel stabilising product to protect any that’s left in the tank.

Finally, when the sun comes out again, a spring service is always a good idea to remove any condensation in the oil and generally check on its condition.