If you live in a climate with snowy winters, you'll most likely be putting your motorcycle away for the season.

Your bike is an investment of your finances and your time, and it's important to think about keeping it clean and safe while the weather is cold and snowy. When you prepare your motorcycle for storage, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure it's in tip-top shape for next year!

Please note: You should also follow the manufacturer's recommendations for any other winterizing requirements not mentioned in this article.​​

• Clean it up
  Give your bike a good wash and wax and cover it with a breathable cloth cover. This will protect your bike from dirt, dust or other airborne matter in your garage.
• Gas it up
  Top off your tank and add the recommended amount of fuel stabilizer. Stabilizer prevents your fuel from breaking down and producing a brown residue that can coat your carburetor. Run your engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated gas. Since gas is flammable, do not store a motorcycle with a full tank of gas in an area where there is open flame, pilot lights, sparks or motors.
• Change the oil
  Just before you put your motorcycle into storage, change the oil. Used oil that sits in your bike all winter becomes corrosive and can damage your motorcycle's parts.
• Check the coolant
  Since motorcycles are not used in freezing temperatures, many riders overlook the use of coolant. Use a floating-ball device to check if your coolant level is sufficient to resist freezing. If it's low, always add according to the manufacturer's directions.
• Charge the battery
  Remove your battery, store it at a temperature above 32 degrees and trickle-charge it once a month. If you're able to run the bike once a month, leave the battery in the bike and disconnect the negative cable end.
• Remember the tires
  If you can manage it, store your bike off the ground. If you can't do this, make sure the tires are properly inflated, set the bike on its stand and rotate the front and back tires every so often to avoid flat spots.
  

By taking the time to properly prepare your motorcycle for storage, you'll save more time in the spring when you want to take your bike out on the open road. Stay safe, and ride on!

Content provided by Foremost Insurance www.Foremost.com

Please check our our motorcycle rates! We have some of the best in town!

Texas' roads are full of cars — but often, they’re also full of wildlife. That’s why an estimated 2 million vehicle-animal collisions happen each year across America, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Fall and winter constitute the most dangerous periods for these incidents. Visibility is reduced, thanks to the shorter days and inclement weather, and it’s also migration and mating season for many animals. But, you can still take steps to decrease the chances you’ll hit an animal. Here are five things to do:

1.      Be particularly alert at dawn and dusk. Visibility is low at these times, and animal activity is high.
2.      Keep an eye out for signs. If you’re in an area where wildlife is common, you may see posted warnings.
3.      Watch your speed. Avoiding any kind of collision is easier if you’re travelling at an appropriate rate of speed. And, it’s not just about the speed limit. In certain conditions, driving under the speed limit is more optimal.
4.      See an animal? Look for more. Missing one animal doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods, so to speak. There are probably others around.
5.      Don’t swerve. If possible, don’t make any wild maneuvers. You could end up hitting something worse than an animal — like another car — or going into a ditch or down an embankment. Use your brakes, use your horn, and use your good judgment.
 
Sometimes, though, collisions just can’t be avoided. If you do hit an animal, here’s what to do next:

·        Call 911 for assistance, especially if there are injuries to you or passengers.
·        Don’t touch the animal. They can be dangerous, even when hurt.
·        Document the accident scene and the damage to your car.
·        Get in touch with your insurance carrier or with us.

Keep in mind that the same attributes that make for safe everyday driving can also help you avoid animal collisions: Remain alert, maintain a safe speed for conditions and avoid distractions.

​Also, be sure to carry adequate car insurance in case something – animal-related or otherwise – does happen.

​Unique among motor sports, driving all-terrain vehicles in Texas combines an exhilarating workout with a test of maneuvering skills and a hearty dose of adrenaline. Fun as it is though, it can be a risky activity. So, take a systematic approach to keeping things safe before, during and after your outings.

Before You Go

·        Take a Course
Formal hands-on training courses cover how to control ATVs in commonplace situations. The ATV Safety Institute typically offers its ATV Rider Course free to anyone who buys a new qualifying machine from an institute member. Call 1-800-887-2887 or visit atvsafety.org for class information.


·        Dress for Success
A motorcycle or other motorized sports helmet, certified by the U.S. Department of Transportation, is a must. You’ll also want to suit up with over-the-ankle boots and long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, goggles and gloves.


·        Remember Insurance
Riding on state-owned land? Many states requireATV insurance, which offers coverage options similar to what’s available for motorcycles – liability, comprehensive, collision, safety apparel replacement, roadside assistance and more.

During the Ride

·        Don’t Share the Seat
You’ll want to be free to shift your weight according to the terrain and the situation. Passengers make it difficult – and dangerous.


·        Stay Off the Road
ATVs simply aren't street-legal machines, at least not in most states. The solid rear axle with no differential means they can be hard to handle on pavement.


·        Let Kids Be Kids
Children should never be allowed to drive or ride on an adult ATV. Someone under 16 on an adult ATV is twice as likely to sustain an injury as a child riding a youth ATV, according to ATVSafety.gov.

After the Outing

·        Wait to Celebrate
This is when you get to unwind with a cold one, not before. You need sharp reaction time and judgment, so don’t ever drive ATVs under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
​
We here at First Community Financial Group want you to enjoy your ATV outings this summer, while staying safe. Just give us a ring if we can help you explore ATV insurance options!