My Honda Shadow has sat for 8 months, what should I do before trying to start it up?

Question

I bought a used Shadow last year, my first motorcycle. A combination of being away and lazy has led to it sitting for a long time and now it won't start. I know I need a new battery. What else should I do?

Answer 1

Change and or dip Spark Plug in gas, Drain old gas put in new, change oil and thats about all just make sure you let it idle to work the new componets in with the engine

Answer 2

It doesnt matter whether your bike has been idle for 1 day or 8mths, you should always go through checks prior to taking off. On this occasion, check your oil and plugs as the others have stated, but more importantly....make sure your chain is still in good nick. Check the condition and make sure it is well lubricated before hitting the road

Fuel also does go stale when it sits in tanks for long periods of time, and if you run it through your engine, you can sometimes do damage. Try and empty some of the fuel, and then put some fresh fuel in.

Answer 3

If possible, drain the gas tank. Remove the spark plugs, squirt a little light oil into the hole. Crank the starter for a little bit. Replace the plugs. Start the motor, let it idle, when it gets warm, turn the motor off. Then do an oil change.

Answer 4

If its carberated...spray some gas or starter fluid in the carbs cause if the carbs are dry, which happens when they sit awhile, it will take some work to start it, or just put some jumpers on a car and crank it till it starts(thats what i did when i went to start my bike after having it sit for 5mo(it took like 15min)

Answer 5

At a minimum, check the battery fuel, and air in the tires.

Answer 6

new gas ;check tires;tune up;maby clean the carb;change oil;lube chain unless shaft drive;

Answer 7

make sure there's gas and oil.