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Winter Storage Guide - KTM 300 XC-W & Husqvarna TE 300

Complete winterization and storage guide for KTM 300 XC-W and Husqvarna TE 300 2-stroke enduro bikes in Utah's climate.

Winter Storage Guide

Pre-Storage Checklist

Essential Tasks (Must Do)

  • Change transmission oil
  • Clean air filter thoroughly
  • Add fuel stabilizer
  • Run engine to circulate stabilizer
  • Fog engine internals
  • Remove battery
  • Clean and dry bike completely
  • Lubricate all pivot points
  • Change coolant if due
  • Service suspension (if near interval)
  • Replace worn brake pads
  • Fix any existing issues
  • Document current hours
  • Order parts for spring

Engine Preservation

2-Stroke Fogging Procedure

  1. Warm engine to operating temperature
  2. Add fuel stabilizer (2oz per gallon)
  3. Run for 10 minutes to circulate
  4. Remove air filter
  5. Spray fogging oil into airboot while running
  6. Engine will smoke heavily - this is normal
  7. Let engine stall from fogging oil
  8. Remove spark plug
  9. Spray fogging oil directly into cylinder
  10. Kick slowly 5-10 times to coat cylinder
  11. Reinstall plug finger tight only

Fuel System Care

Option 1: Full Tank Method

  • Fill tank completely
  • Add StaBil or similar
  • Reduces condensation
  • Best for 2-4 month storage

Option 2: Empty Tank Method

  • Drain tank completely
  • Run carb/TBI dry
  • Remove fuel petcock
  • Best for 4+ month storage

Exhaust Protection

  • Plug silencer with steel wool
  • Prevents moisture and rodents
  • Spray WD-40 in pipe
  • Cover with plastic bag

Suspension Storage

Fork Care

  1. Clean dust seals thoroughly
  2. Apply seal lubricant
  3. Compress forks several times
  4. Store with forks compressed slightly
  5. Releases pressure on seals

Shock Maintenance

  1. Clean shaft completely
  2. Check for seal leaks
  3. Apply light oil to shaft
  4. Store at mid-stroke position
  5. Prevents seal dry-out

Battery Management

Lithium Battery (if equipped)

  • Remove from bike
  • Store at 60-80% charge
  • Keep at room temperature
  • Check monthly
  • Recharge if below 50%

Lead-Acid Battery

  • Remove and clean terminals
  • Full charge before storage
  • Use Battery Tender
  • Store in warm location
  • Check fluid levels monthly

Tire and Wheel Care

Tire Preservation

  • Inflate to 20 PSI (higher than riding)
  • Rotate monthly if possible
  • Use tire stands to prevent flat spots
  • Cover if exposed to sunlight
  • Check pressure monthly

Wheel Bearing Protection

  • Spin wheels monthly
  • Listen for rough bearings
  • Plan bearing service if needed
  • Keep bike off ground if possible

Storage Environment

Ideal Conditions

  • Temperature: 50-70°F
  • Humidity: 30-50%
  • Ventilation: Good airflow
  • Cover: Breathable fabric
  • Floor: Off concrete if possible

Utah-Specific Concerns

  • Extreme temperature swings
  • Very low humidity
  • Rodent activity increases
  • Salt air near Great Salt Lake
  • Dust accumulation

Fluids and Lubricants

Transmission Oil

  • Change before storage
  • Use Motorex 10W-50
  • Fill to proper level
  • Document date/hours

Coolant System

  • Test freeze protection (-20°F minimum)
  • Top off if needed
  • Engine Ice recommended
  • Check hose condition

Brake Fluid

  • DOT 4 or 5.1 only
  • Change if discolored
  • Bleed if spongy
  • Check for leaks

Chain and Sprockets

Chain Care

  1. Clean thoroughly
  2. Inspect for wear
  3. Apply heavy chain wax
  4. Over-lubricate for storage
  5. Cover with rag

Sprocket Check

  • Measure wear
  • Order replacements if needed
  • Note current gearing
  • Consider ratio changes

Controls and Cables

Cable Maintenance

  • Lubricate throttle cable
  • Check clutch cable adjustment
  • Apply dielectric grease to connections
  • Loosen cables slightly
  • Prevents stretching

Lever Care

  • Clean pivot points
  • Apply waterproof grease
  • Check for play
  • Adjust if needed

Monthly Maintenance During Storage

Month 1 & 2

  • Check tire pressure
  • Rotate wheels
  • Inspect for leaks
  • Verify battery charge

Month 3 & 4

  • Start engine briefly (if fuel in tank)
  • Cycle suspension
  • Check for rodent damage
  • Lubricate exposed metal

Spring Preparation

2 Weeks Before Riding

  1. Full inspection
  2. Change fluids if needed
  3. Check all fasteners
  4. Test all controls
  5. Order any needed parts

First Start Procedure

  1. Remove exhaust plug
  2. Check fuel quality
  3. Install fresh plug
  4. Prime fuel system
  5. Expect smoke initially
  6. Let warm completely
  7. Check for leaks
  8. Test ride carefully

Storage Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Dirty storage - Corrosion accelerates
  2. Old fuel - Varnish and deposits
  3. Dead battery - Won’t recover
  4. Dry seals - Premature wear
  5. Flat tires - Permanent damage
  6. Tight chains - Seal damage
  7. Moisture traps - Use breathable covers

Professional Storage Service

Mountain Goat Sports offers:

  • Complete winterization: $149
  • Indoor heated storage: $89/month
  • Spring prep included
  • Monthly inspection
  • Battery maintenance
  • Emergency access

Storage Supplies List

Essential Items

  • Fuel stabilizer
  • Fogging oil spray
  • Battery tender
  • Bike cover (breathable)
  • Tire stands
  • Cable lube
  • Chain wax
  • Desiccant packs
  • Rodent deterrent
  • Oil drain pan
  • New fluids
  • Spare filters
  • Touch-up paint

Quick Reference Card

Winter Storage Steps:
1. Clean bike thoroughly
2. Change oil
3. Stabilize/drain fuel
4. Fog engine
5. Remove battery
6. Inflate tires
7. Lube everything
8. Cover properly
9. Check monthly

Print this guide and check off items as completed. Proper storage ensures your KTM 300 XC-W or Husqvarna TE 300 fires right up when Utah’s trails dry out in spring.

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