The preparations for storage:

• Clean the motorcycle thoroughly, any corrosive contaminants will have plenty of time to inflict damage on the bike.  
• Run the bike for 5-10 minutes and drain the oil. The old oil gets contaminated with acids and water which will cause damage to motorcycles which are left standing. Refill the bike with new clean oil.
• Drain the tank and carbs of fuel. To drain the carbs, empty the tank, then run motorcycle until it stops, the carbs will then be dry. Fuel can break down and block the jets in the carbs if the bike is left for long periods of time.
• To save the inside of the tank and stop from going rusty, remove tank and put 200ml of motor oil in and swill round to give the inside a coating, then drain the excess oil off.
• Remove the spark plugs, spray light oil into the cylinders, turn the engine several timesto get even distribution and to expel any excess. (engine oil or redex upper cylinder lubricant can be used).
• Reduce the tyre pressures by around 20%, to prevent flat spots on the tyres, mount the motorcycle on a stand or solid box. If you don't have one ensure you turn the motorcycle wheels every few weeks or so.
• To avoid damage to exposed un-painted metal/chrome parts spray or smear with oil. Grease can be used, but it is much harder to remove.
• Ensure all cables and chain have been lubricated well.  
• Keep the battery on a trickle charge battery charger, or better still, remove the battery, store in a warm dry place and keep regularly charged. (optima do a range of battery chagers).
• Exhausts, if you don't want to remove them, cover them in a layer of oil, then tie a plastice bag over the ends to prevent moisture entering in. If you decide to remove the exhausts, place them in a dry warm place and fill in the exhaust ports on the motorcycle with some cloth to prevent moisture entering in.
• Cover the motorcycle with plastic sheeting to prevent dirt and dust from settling. Cloth sheets should br avoided as they will get damp, then it will hold the damp against the metal. Proper indoor breatheable covers may be used.