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If you have a motorcycle, you need a motorcycle cover. It’s the best way to protect your bike when you’re not riding it. If you park outside, a cover protects against the wind, sun, rain, and snow.
Indoors, it protects against dust and condensation. Choosing the right motorcycle cover can be tricky. That’s why we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about how to find the right one for you.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Motorcycle Covers
- OUR TOP PICK: Favoto Motorcycle Cover
- RUNNER-UP: XYZCTEM All Season Cover
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Dowco Guardian 50124-00
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Covers
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When Would a Motorcycle Cover Come in Handy?
Anytime your motorcycle is parked for a long period, it needs a cover. Here are some specific cases in which a cover comes in handy.
Overnight
If you park your motorcycle outside of your house or in your garage overnight, putting a cover over it is the smart thing to do. This protects it from wind and rain that may occur overnight. Plus, it keeps your motorcycle out of sight so you don’t have to worry about it catching the attention of would-be thieves.
Traveling
If you’re touring and spending the night in a hotel or motel, parking your bike outside your window is one way to keep an eye on it. But you also need to protect it from the elements while you sleep. That’s where a motorcycle cover comes in handy.
Indoors
Some people might think that they don’t need a cover if they keep their bikes indoors. While it may be okay overnight, any long term indoor storage requires a cover. If you keep your motorcycle tucked away in the garage over the winter, a cover keeps it protected against dust and condensation.
What Size Motorcycle Cover Do I Need?
There are a few things to consider when choosing a motorcycle cover for your bike. Size is one of the most important. You must know the dimensions of your bike before you can choose an appropriate cover. Then, look at the sizing chart for the one you’re considering to make sure you get the right size.
You should also consider any accessories or extras added to your bike. For example, if you have a large cruiser with saddlebags, make sure you choose a cover that can cover them. You don’t want to have to remove them every time you put the cover on.
How Do I Choose a Motorcycle Cover?
Here are the top features to look for when choosing a motorcycle cover:
Material
The type of material you need depends on how you plan to use the cover. If your bike is going to be kept indoors over the winter or even overnight, it doesn’t necessarily need as much protection as it does if you plan to keep it outside. For outside storage, waterproof material is the way to go.
Size
Some covers are universal and fit most bikes. Others are specifically sized for bikes of various sizes and shapes. Both work well, so this is a matter of preference. That said, choosing a cover that is more tailored to the shape of your bike has less extra material, which may prevent wind from getting under the cover and possibly exposing part of the bike.
Security
If you put a bike lock on your bike overnight, you might want to consider a cover with a lock hole. These are o-ring or reinforced slits in the fabric that allow you to thread a lock through the cover and the tire. It provides a little bit of extra security and lets would-be thieves see that your motorcycle is protected so they move on to another target.
XYZCTEM All Season Cover
Review of the Best Motorcycle Covers
If you’re in the market for a new motorcycle cover, here are some of the best options available.
Best Overall:
Favoto Motorcycle Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users agree that this is a great cover for the price. The material is a little thin, but it’s waterproof and gets the job done. Some users loved the O-ring lock hole. The buckles also come in handy, especially for smaller bikes because the cover doesn’t blow around as much.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the best things about this cover is that it works with a variety of types of bikes. We’re talking about multiple brands and sizes. The buckles secure the bottom of the cover so the wind won’t lift it, no matter what size the bike is.
Because this cover is black, it’s not easy to see at night. That’s when the three reflective strips come in handy. This is especially true if you park next to your motorcycle in the driveway.
The O-ring holes allow you to lock the wheel of your motorcycle through the cover. This sends the message to would-be thieves to move along and find another target.
Bottom Line
This cover is convenient, versatile, and won’t break your budget. It fits a variety of bikes, including touring bikes, sports bikes, and even mopeds and scooters. The included storage bag protects the cover when it's not in use.
Runner-up:
XYZCTEM All Season Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
For the most part, buyers were pretty happy with this cover. But, a few did mention that it’s very light and will leak if water pools on it. The consensus is that this cover is better used as a dust cover than an all-weather one.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a great choice if you’re looking for a bargain. The low price fits into just about any budget, and it does a pretty good job of protecting your bike. This might not be the best cover for torrential downpours or inches of snow, but it does protect against normal weather conditions and dust.
The lock holes allow you to lock your bike tire through the cover, signaling that thieves should just move along. Although this cover fits a range of motorcycle sizes and brands, the bottom buckles keep it in place, even when it's windy.
Bottom Line
This cover is a little lightweight and may not provide all-weather protection, but it is well-made and suited for sunny weather. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking for a cover to protect your motorcycle while it’s in the garage.
Best for the Money:
Dowco Guardian 50124-00
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers rave about this product. Most comment on the thickness of the material and how effective it protects against wind and rain. It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other options, but most users think it’s well worth the price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What impressed us about this cover is that it’s not one-size-fits-all. This one comes in multiple sizes. Not only does this include basic sizes from medium to XXL, but also sizes for specific types of bikes, like cruisers and sportbikes. Use the brand’s handy size chart to determine the best fit for your bike.
We also like the high level of protection this cover offers. The ClimaShield Plus waterproof fabric and sealed seams block out wind and rain. There are also heavy-duty cotton heat shields that prevent the exhaust from melting the cover. This means you don’t have to let the bike cool down completely before placing the cover.
Bottom Line
This cover may cost a bit more than some of the others, but it’s definitely worth the investment. It comes in multiple sizes to ensure a snug fit, and the material protects against a wide range of weather conditions.
Best Waterproof Motorcycle Cover:
Badass Moto Ultimate Motorcycle Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People love this cover. Buyers have good things to say about the quality of the material and the high level of protection it provides. The waterproofing seems to work flawlessly. One problem that arose was that the color faded in the hot sun, but this didn’t seem to degrade the quality of the material.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What stands out about this cover is the quality. Not only is it made out of commercial-grade material, but it also has reinforced and taped seams. If you’re looking for a cover that’s made to provide four-season protection, this is it.
We also like that this cover comes in four sizes. Each is designed with a universal fit that suits a variety of brands and styles. The heat shielding is great because you don’t have to wait for the bike to cool completely before putting it on. All this comes with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Bottom Line
Not only is this cover waterproof, but it’s also ideal for extreme temperatures. This is a true all-weather cover that provides impressive protection. Best of all, Badass Moto is a family-owned business based in the USA.
Best All Weather Motorcycle Cover:
WDLHQC Motorcycle Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers were a bit mixed in their reactions to this cover. Some felt it was a great buy and did what it promised. Others felt the material was a little thin and that the cover should be considered water-resistant, not waterproof.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is another great option if you’re looking for something that offers a fair amount of protection at an extremely affordable price. It’s designed to fit multiple shapes and styles and comes in two different sizes. Choose from 105 or 87 inches long, depending on your bike.
We like that this cover has both an elastic bottom and a buckle to hold it in place. This is an essential feature on any cover, but especially one that has a universal fit. The locking holes come in handy, too. They’re edged with the same durable material as the cover instead of metal. That means you don’t have to worry about rust.
Bottom Line
This is an affordable and easy-to-use cover that’s a good choice if you want something affordable and effective. Some buyers were impressed with the level of quality for the price. It may not be able to handle high winds and drenching rains, but it’s a great choice for normal conditions.
Best Harley Davidson Motorcycle Cover:
Tokept Waterproof Motorcycle Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users felt that this was a good cover for the money. It doesn’t cover all large bikes completely. Some people mentioned that the front tire remains exposed. This one makes a great dust cover, but may not be thick or durable enough to stand up to the elements.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is a great option for Harley’s and other large bikes. It’s even designed to cover engine guards and saddlebags. While the fit may be a little snug, it provides ample protection and gets the job done. Use the buckles to hold it in place when the wind picks up.
The material is durable and has a waterproof layer, protecting against rain and moisture. That said, some users did mention that it’s better as an indoor dust cover or for temporary use outside. For a product that’s this affordable, you can’t go wrong.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is that this is an extremely affordable bike cover that’s suitable for larger models. It’s great as a dust cover but may not be the best choice for long term use outside. The black and orange coloring matched the Harley colors, which is a nice bonus.
Best Outdoor Motorcycle Cover:
AngLink Motorcycle Cover
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people agree that this cover delivers on what it promises. It’s thick, waterproof, and provides a lot of protection. That said, it doesn’t last very long. Still, this cover is exceptionally affordable and worth the investment, even if it only lasts one winter.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we like about this cover is that it’s such a great buy. This one will fit into any budget, and provides excellent protection. The thick 210D oxford fabric is exceptionally waterproof and can withstand some pretty hard water pressure.
The anti-theft clock lock holes are a convenient way to secure your bike. We also like the reflective strips along the front of the cover to increase visibility, especially at night. The adjustable elastic band and windproof buckle hold the cover in place, and the universal fit covers bikes as long as 104 inches.
Bottom Line
This is a great option if you want something that offers a lot of protection for a small amount of money. The material is thick and waterproof and withstands wind and rain. It might not last years, but you can’t beat this protection for the price.
Motorcycle Cover Types
There are a few types of motorcycle covers to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular and how you can determine which one is for you.
Weatherproof
Weatherproof and waterproof motorcycle covers are made of thick, durable material with a special coating to keep water out. They also have sealed seams so that there’s no chance that water can leak in, even if there’s a significant amount of rain. If you live in a climate that experiences a lot of rain, snow, wind, or other extreme weather, this type of cover is recommended.
Dowco Guardian 50124-00
Universal Covers
As we mentioned, universal covers are designed to fit any shape and style of a motorcycle. When you order one, just make sure the length is appropriate for your bike. These covers usually have an elastic bottom, buckles, or both to secure them to your motorcycle. This helps make up for the fact that it isn’t an exact fit.
Tailored Covers
There are also covers available that are shaped for specific styles of bike. One look at a sportbike and a cruiser and you know that they are very different. If you want something that fits your motorcycle a little better, look for a cover that is tailored to the size and shape of your bike.
Indoor Cover vs Outdoor Cover Motorcycle - Comparison Overview
Your motorcycle has different needs whether you park it inside or outside. Here’s what you need to know.
Indoor Covers
Indoor covers are meant for motorcycles that are parked inside of garages or sheds. They’re typically made of thinner material than outdoor covers and are meant to protect mostly against dust. You should also consider ventilation when using an indoor cover. If condensation is allowed to build up under the cover, it could lead to mildew or rust.
An indoor cover does not provide the level of protection you need if you’re keeping your bike outdoors. You might get away with using one for a night or two and they can do the job on a sunny day. But these covers aren’t made to stand up to the elements and won’t last long outdoors.
Outdoor Covers
Outdoor covers are designed to protect a motorcycle that is parked outdoors. To do so, an outdoor cover is thick, weatherproof, and durable. The seams are usually sealed, and some have double stitching for extra durability. These covers are made to stand up to the elements and last for a long time.
How to Clean a Motorcycle Cover
Just because your cover is meant to stand up to the elements doesn’t mean you don’t have to take care of it. Here’s a quick rundown for how to keep your outdoor motorcycle cover clean. Be sure to refer to the video below for a full overview.
- Try water first. Use your garden hose to spray off any visible dirt or debris.
- If there is still dirt or stains on your cover after trying a hose, use a soft sponge to try to scrub the stain off. Again, use only water and rub the stain with a car wash sponge.
- If there is grease, oil, or any other stubborn spots on your cover, try using a little bit of gentle dish soap on the sponge. Dish soap is specifically formulated to break down grease and oil and is usually enough to eliminate these stubborn spots. Don’t forget to rinse away the soap when you’re done.
- After you’re done washing the cover, shake it to get rid of any large droplets, and then hang it to dry.
Conclusion
Motorcycle covers are essential for protecting your bike from the elements, whether you’re parking it outside overnight or storing it in the garage for the winter. Now that you know a little bit more about what to look for, we hope you find the cover that’s right for you.
People Also Ask
Choosing the right gear for your motorcycle isn’t always easy, and we know you probably still have some questions. Here are some of the most common things people ask about.
Should You Cover Your Motorcycle?
Yes. Covering your motorcycle is the only way you can be sure that nothing will happen to it while it’s parked. If your bike is outside overnight, protecting it from wind, rain, and other environmental factors ensure that everything will be fine in the morning when you’re ready to head back out.
Can You Wash a Motorcycle Cover?
Some indoor covers are machine washable, but for the most part, you should simply spray your cover off with a hose to keep it free of dirt and debris. Every cover is different, so read the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.
How to Keep a Bike From Rusting Outside
The best way to keep a bike from rusting outside is to keep it covered. You should also be sure that your cover provides ventilation to prevent moisture from building up underneath the cover as this can also lead to problems with rust and corrosion.
Do Motorcycle Covers Cause Rust?
Not directly. But, if you have a cover that doesn’t breathe and you keep your bike covered for long periods, moisture can build up under the cover and cause problems.
Do Motorcycle Covers Work?
Yes. Motorcycles are a great way to protect your bike against the elements and keep it safe when you’re not riding them.
How to Put on a Motorcycle Cover
Motorcycle covers are pretty easy to put on. The most important thing to remember is to let the bike cool down first.
Some covers will melt if they are placed over a warm exhaust. When it's time, position the cover over the handlebars first and then pull it over the sides and down the back of the bike. If there’s a buckle, use it to make sure the cover stays in place.
How to Fold Motorcycle Cover
WDLHQC Motorcycle Cover
Folding a motorcycle cover isn’t always easy. It’s kind of like folding a fitted sheet. The best approach is to turn it inside out and attempt to fold it just as you would a fitted sheet. One note, if the cover is wet, you should hang it to dry before folding it to avoid mildew.
What Does an Anti-theft Hole on a Motorcycle Cover Do?
An anti-theft hole lets you thread a cable lock through the wheel and the cover so you can lock up your motorcycle with the cover securely in place.
How Long Should I Wait to Cover My Motorcycle?
You should always wait for your motorcycle to cool off before placing the cover on. This varies depending on how hot the bike is and the ambient temperature and can take as little as 30 minutes. Some high-end covers have heat protection panels on the inside that allow you to place the cover right away.
What is a Motorcycle Half Cover?
Half covers protect only the top of the motorcycle, including the headlights, handlebars, seat, and rear rack.
Is a Heated Motorcycle Cover Safe To Use?
Heated motorcycle covers aren’t common, but they can be useful. They are generally safe because they don’t heat up as much as you might think. The temperature is usually set just above the ambient temperature to prevent condensation and moisture from collecting inside the cover.
Other Motorcycle Buyer Guides
Below are some other guides related to motorcycles:
