I had knee surgery about a month ago and am starting to clean up my bike and get it ready for the long wait until next April once I'm 100% and have muscle built back up.  It's an '07, bought new and I've never drained the carbs for several winters.  After reading all the posts about draining the carbs to winterize the bike I just have one question.   :icon_question:Why do we fill up the fuel tank and put stabilizer in it so no moisture builds up in the tank, BUT we drain the carbs, isn't that risking moisture buildup in the carbs? 

stabilizer prevents the fuel in the tank from breaking down. fuel in the tank prevents rust. carbs need to be drained so all the small passages stay clear (no rust cause its made of aluminum mostly).

Most seasoned bike storers run the bike a bit with the stabilized fuel to get it in the carbs, jets, and passages.  Then drain.  I've never had trouble with leaving FRESH stabilized gas in the carbs but I've also had good luck draining.  Don't use more stabil than recommended - more is not better.   Good luck getting back in riding shape!

Thanks for the replies! Now is there anything special that I need to do in the spring other than getting gas in the carbs first before starting??

I'd recommend a change of oil & filter as well before you put the bike away for the winter. If you want to over-maintain you could even change the oil again when the bike comes out of storage, since oil does have a shelf life. Put your battery on a tender for the winter (this is important) as well.

Next spring (or late winter!) when you feel like firing it up again, just fill the bowls with the PRI setting for a couple of seconds, install your battery and be off.

Quote from: jacob_ns on September 08, 2011, 10:34:59 AM
Next spring (or late winter!) when you feel like firing it up again, just fill the bowls with the PRI setting for a couple of seconds, install your battery and be off.

Providing a float doesn't stick open   

-Jessie

Quote from: BaltimoreGS on September 08, 2011, 01:15:16 PM

Quote from: jacob_ns on September 08, 2011, 10:34:59 AM
Next spring (or late winter!) when you feel like firing it up again, just fill the bowls with the PRI setting for a couple of seconds, install your battery and be off.

Providing a float doesn't stick open   

-Jessie

Well, I'm working off the basis of a mechanically well maintained, serviceable motorcycle.