Hi everyone,

Back in 2008 I bought a new nightster. I rode it around on the weekends for a few years and then I sold it to my cousin since I didn't have a place to store it anymore. Anywho, I recently bought a house with a garage and my cousin said he hasn't ridden the bike for the past 3 years and its' just been sitting in his garage. So, I bought it back from him, but he told me he winterized it 3 years ago and it's sat ever since. I just got it back to my garage and the bike doesn't turn over, battery is dead which is to be expected. So I know I need a new battery, change the oil, it's always had synthetic, but what other things should I look for? There's some gas left in the tank, probably about half a tank or less, I figure I should syphon the gas out and put fresh gas in it. What am I missing? He told me it only has a few thousand miles on it, but I won't know the exact mileage until I put a new battery in. I just want to make sure I dont' forget anything and cause major damage later down the line.

Thanks everyone

 

Other than what you said, and yes I would drain the fuel like you said, but I would also change the tires. After three years of just sitting on the ground without moving they are probably small to medium cracks throughout. And make sure you change the oil in both holes and the filter.

 

Thank you! Any idea where to buy a battery other than the dealer? I called the dealer and they said $150 for a new battery, which I thought seemed too high. I figured no more than $100. I thought about going to sears, but i remember hearing that the diehard batteries don't fit as well.

 

I like the Drag Specialties sealed battery, purchase from local Indy. Part# 2113-0325. Strong crank, hasn't let me down yet.

You are going to have to check everything rubber or flexible on that bike (hoses, air filter seals,etc.)

 

I have a 2008 barley used Nightster. Had 1200 miles on it when I bought it last year. I've only put on about 3000 miles since. The fuel pump just went out, lost pressure probably from sitting.
You'll probably want to change the tires too.