If you live in a cold climate and store your motorcycle in an unheated garage during the winter, it is generally advisable to remove the battery and store it indoors in a warmer area. Cold temperatures can negatively affect the performance and lifespan of the battery.
Here's why removing the battery is recommended:
Battery performance: Cold temperatures can significantly reduce a battery's ability to hold a charge. Storing the battery in a warmer environment, such as indoors, helps to maintain its performance and prevent it from losing charge or becoming damaged.
Battery lifespan: Extreme cold temperatures can cause the battery to freeze, which can lead to irreparable damage. Removing the battery and storing it indoors can help protect it from freezing and extend its overall lifespan.
Maintenance: Storing the battery separately allows you to monitor its condition, perform necessary maintenance, and keep it charged if needed. You can use a battery maintainer or charger to keep the battery at an optimal charge level during the storage period.
While starting the motorcycle once a week can help to keep certain components lubricated and prevent potential issues with fuel system deposits, it may not be sufficient to maintain the battery's health, especially in extremely cold conditions. Starting the engine briefly may not allow the battery to recharge fully, and repeated short rides without proper charging can eventually lead to a drained battery.
Therefore, if you're storing your motorcycle in a cold climate for an extended period, it is generally recommended to remove the battery and store it in a warmer location. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and best practices for battery storage to ensure its longevity and reliable performance.