[jbfla]

My usual practice for storing my bikes in NC for the six months they sit unused is to:

...add stabilizer and fill the fuel tank
...change the oil and filter, so contaminants don't have time to work on internal engine parts
...plug up the exhaust and air box openings to discourage mice from making nests
...check the air filter, clean and lubricate if necessary
...remove the battery, and put it on a battery tender
...jack up the bike to take the weight off the tires so they don't develop flat spots
...do a general cleaning of accumulated road grime, optional wax
...lubricate the chain, best done while warm
...cover the bike with an old bed sheet or breathable bike cover.
...optionally, I usually remove the spark plug and "fog" the cylinder

This may seem like overkill, but your bike will be ready for use with minimum fuss when you need it.

I don't recommend starting the engine. That only serves to contaminate the oil, and if you do, the engine must be run long enough to "burn off" the accumulated moisture condensation.

jb