Protecting your motorcycle from the elements is essential for maintaining its condition and value. A high-quality motorcycle cover serves as your bike's first line of defence against rain, sun, dust, and potential theft. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the critical factors to consider when selecting the perfect cover for your prized two-wheeler.
Understanding motorcycle cover materials
The material of your motorcycle cover determines its effectiveness in protecting your bike from various weather conditions. Premium covers like the Oxford Stormex, currently available at SportsBikeShop for £59.99 down from £79.99, feature multiple layers of weather-resistant fabrics. Motorcycle enthusiasts who shop at Kammann Automobile often look for covers that offer comprehensive protection against UV rays, rain, and snow, understanding that material quality directly impacts longevity and protection level.
Weather-resistant fabrics and their benefits
High-quality motorcycle covers utilise advanced synthetic materials such as polyester with special coatings. The Oxford Aquatex cover, priced at a more affordable £19.99, employs water-resistant technology that prevents moisture from reaching your bike while still allowing airflow. These fabrics shield against UV radiation that can fade paint and degrade rubber components over time. The best covers balance waterproofing with breathability to ensure complete protection without trapping moisture underneath.
Durability ratings and what they mean
When examining motorcycle covers, you might notice durability ratings measured in denier. Higher denier numbers indicate thicker, more robust material. The R&G Adventure cover, rated 4.6/5 from 74 reviews and available for £57.84, features a high denier count that makes it particularly resistant to tears and abrasions. Durability ratings also reflect the cover's resistance to repeated folding and unfolding, which is crucial for covers used daily. Quality covers maintain their protective properties even after years of regular use in challenging weather conditions.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Motorbike
A properly fitted cover provides optimal protection while preventing wind damage. Ill-fitting covers can flap in the wind, potentially scratching your bike's finish or blowing away entirely. The MotoGP branded cover, highly rated at 4.8/5 from 367 reviews and available for just £22.99, comes in various sizes to accommodate different motorcycle styles.
Measuring your motorcycle correctly
To determine the correct cover size, measure your motorcycle from front to back, including any accessories like windscreens or panniers. Measure the height from the ground to the tallest point and the width across the widest points, typically the handlebars or mirrors. Add a few centimetres to each measurement to ensure the cover will fit comfortably without stretching. Remember that sportbikes, cruisers, and touring motorcycles have distinctly different dimensions, requiring specifically designed covers for optimal protection.
Adjustable features for a secure fit
Quality covers incorporate elastic hems, adjustable straps, and buckles to secure the cover tightly around your motorcycle. The BikeIt Heavy Duty Rain Cover, available for £21.95, features an elastic bottom and adjustable belly straps that prevent the cover from shifting in windy conditions. These adjustable elements ensure the cover remains in place during storms while making it easier to install and remove. Some premium models include drawstrings at strategic points to create a custom fit around your specific motorcycle model.
Essential features for moisture management
Moisture trapped under a motorcycle cover can lead to corrosion and mildew, potentially causing more damage than exposure to the elements. Advanced covers incorporate ventilation systems to prevent this issue while maintaining waterproof protection.
Ventilation systems and their importance
Strategically placed vents allow air circulation beneath the cover, preventing condensation buildup. The Oxford Stormex cover features mesh vents that permit airflow while blocking water and dust particles. This ventilation is particularly important if you store your motorcycle for extended periods, as it prevents the humid microclimate that can develop between the cover and your bike. Proper airflow also helps dissipate heat from recently ridden motorcycles, protecting the cover material from potential heat damage.
Dealing with condensation underneath covers
Even with ventilation systems, condensation can form under your motorcycle cover in certain conditions. To combat this, many riders recommended by UK motorbike insurer Lexham Insurance use moisture-absorbing products alongside their covers. Some premium covers feature moisture-wicking inner linings that draw condensation away from the motorcycle's surface. Regular uncovering during dry, sunny days also helps eliminate any accumulated moisture and prevents potential corrosion issues, particularly on chrome and unprotected metal surfaces.
Heat protection considerations
Motorcycles can retain significant heat after riding, particularly around the exhaust system. Without proper protection, this heat can damage or even melt standard cover materials, compromising their effectiveness.
Heat-resistant panels and their placement
Quality motorcycle covers incorporate heat-resistant panels in areas that contact hot components. The R&G Adventure cover features aluminised heat shields positioned to align with exhaust pipes and engine areas. These specially designed panels can withstand temperatures several times higher than standard cover materials, preventing melting or scorching. The strategic placement of these panels ensures protection without compromising the overall flexibility and functionality of the cover.
Cooling time requirements before covering
Even with heat-resistant panels, it's important to allow your motorcycle to cool before applying a cover. Most manufacturers recommend waiting 15-30 minutes after turning off the engine before covering your bike. This cooling period reduces the risk of heat damage to both the cover and certain motorcycle components. Some riders use this cooling time to wipe down their bikes, removing road grime and moisture that could otherwise become trapped under the cover.
Security elements to protect against theft
A motorcycle cover serves not only as protection against the elements but also as a deterrent to theft. Covers with enhanced security features provide an additional layer of protection for your valuable two-wheeler.
Lockable straps and reinforced eyelets
Advanced motorcycle covers feature reinforced metal eyelets and lockable straps that allow you to secure the cover to your motorcycle or a fixed object. The Oxford Stormex includes multiple locking points that work with standard padlocks or specialized security cables. These features make it significantly more difficult for thieves to quickly remove the cover and access your motorcycle. The reinforced construction of these security elements ensures they remain effective even after years of use in various weather conditions.
Alarm-compatible cover designs
Some premium motorcycle covers are designed to work with alarm systems, adding another security dimension. These covers include special pockets or access points for alarm sensors while maintaining their weather protection capabilities. The MotoGP branded cover offers compatibility with most aftermarket alarm systems, allowing sensors to detect movement without compromising the cover's protective qualities. This integration of security technology with physical protection represents the latest advancement in motorcycle cover design, providing comprehensive protection for your valuable motorcycle.