Registered Forum User
Ducati Corse
Posts: 3,893
Join Date: Sep 2003
Location: The North
Mood: Daft as MartinH after too much Smirnoff Ice
Definately don't let the battery go flat, use an Optimate.
2 arguments for starting/not starting the engine over the winter.
If you start it, it stops the valves/cam belts sticking in one position which long term may not be good. Also stops petrol 'gumming' up the injectors (or carbs) as it goes stale if the bike is left for a really long period. Modern unleaded does not last well.
However it you start the engine up and it doesn't get really hot, it can lead to condensation in the oil, and most wear takes place on cold starts, (hmmm Ducati rocker problems!) and its not really great leaving it ticking over for 15 minutes whilst stationary.
Personally even if you don't really want to ride it over winter its worth waiting for the odd dry, salt free day and taking it for an hours ride. Great fun as well, if you haven't been on it for a while.
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