Tips for Storing Your Summer Toys

As much as we might dislike it, summer eventually comes to an end and it’s time to start thinking about cooler weather. For those of us who own seasonal “toys” like motorcycles, boats, or ATVs, the end of summer means putting these vehicles into storage for the winter. It’s just as important to take care of your toy when you’re not using it as when you are. You want it in good condition when you’re ready to get back on the road, trail, or water in the spring.

Below are a few tips to get your summer toys ready for fall:

Motorcycles

•          Top off your fuel tank.
•          Check all fluids.
•          Check your tire pressure and add air if necessary. Check your tires every few weeks throughout the fall and winter and pump them up as needed.
•          Prevent rust and corrosion. Give your bike a good waxing to minimize moisture, which can cause severe damage to the body of the bike.
•          Give the whole bike a thorough going-over before your first ride of the spring.

Boats

•           Wash it thoroughly and apply a coat of wax to minimize moisture.
•           Change the oil.  Replace the filter, flush out any lingering oil, and add the new oil.
•           Top off your fuel tank.
•           Refresh your coolant system. Drain the coolant in the system, flush with water, and replace with fresh antifreeze.
•          Spray the carburetor with anti-fogger to protect your engine’s moving parts.
•          Remove any on-board equipment and essentials (life jackets, fire extinguishers, GPS devices, etc.) and store them in a cool, dry location through the winter. Don’t leave any sensitive electronics onboard and exposed to the elements.

ATVs

•         Wash your ride thoroughly.
•          Check your coolant. Top it off or change it completely if it’s more than two years old.

•          Add fresh fuel to your tank.
•          Change the oil and oil filter.
•          Remove and charge the battery. Store it in a cool, dry location and connect it to a trickle charger.
•          Block up any holes or pipes to discourage rodents and other critters from building a home inside your machine!

Take the time to do a few simple maintenance tasks that will keep your toy in good condition throughout the winter. When the warm weather arrives, you should be ready to go in no time!

ETA Insurance Group can help you protect all of your summer (and winter!) toys. From boats and ATVs to snowmobiles, we can shop around to find you the best coverage for your needs and budget. Contact us today for more information. 

Ideas for Celebrating National Motorcycle Week

Photo: Dissolve

August 14-20 is National Motorcycle Week—a celebration of the motorcycle and all the lifestyle entails. Whether you’re a full-time rider or a weekend warrior, your motorcycle is probably a big part of your life. What could be better than a whole week devoted to your favorite pastime? But if you can’t spare a whole seven days, there are still a few ways you can make the most of this national occasion. Below are a few ideas.

Attend a Bike Night or rally. Sometimes local groups hold Bike Nights as fundraisers or annual community events. These events allow bikers to meet and talk about their rides, and usually include bike runs, food vendors, music, and other activities.

Buy some new gear. If you’re going out to a Bike Night or other event, you need the proper riding gear. A helmet is a must—according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, helmets are 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries.  Boots, goggles, and gloves are other essentials. Cover your arms and legs completely by wearing heavy leather or denim.   

Take a ride. Or, just spend some time on the open road, either solo or with your fellow biker friends. Riding solo gives you the time and space to just relax and watch the world go by; riding with others builds camaraderie and gives others the chance to “have your back” and keep each other safe as you travel.

Buy insurance! There’s more than one way to stay safe as you head out. Besides wearing the right gear and following the rules of the road, motorcycle insurance gives you even more protection.   

Here at ETA Benefits Group, we work with several motorcycle insurance carriers and can shop around to find you the best coverage that meets your needs and your budget. Contact us to learn more!