Our team spent the last three months testing 8 of the most popular motorcycle covers on a BMW R Nine T, a Harley Street Glide, and a Yamaha TMAX parked outside through rain, wind, and full sun. After weighing waterproofing, UV protection, wind resistance, fit, and warranty, the Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Motorcycle Cover earned our top spot. Its 4.7-star average across more than 4,700 reviews, lifetime warranty, and touring-bagger fit make it the most complete outdoor motorcycle cover for 2026.
If your bike lives outside – on a driveway, in an apartment courtyard, or on the street – a properly rated cover is the single most affordable piece of insurance you will buy. A good cover blocks UV rays that fade paint and crack plastic, sheds rain before it pools on the seat, stops sap and bird droppings from etching clear coat, and adds a visual layer that discourages opportunistic theft. The wrong cover, on the other hand, traps moisture against chrome, shreds in the first windstorm, or melts the moment it touches a warm exhaust pipe.
I wrote this guide for riders who do not have a garage, who share a parking lot, or who winterize a bike for months at a time. I tested each cover with the same routine: drive in from a wet ride, throw the cover on within ten minutes of parking, leave it through one full rainstorm and one full sunny week, and inspect seams, fabric, and hardware afterward. The picks below are ranked by that hands-on testing combined with tens of thousands of verified owner reviews.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Cover
- Heavy-duty polyester
- Lifetime warranty
- Exhaust shields and vents
Best Motorcycle Covers for Outdoor Storage in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 Favoto Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 Hanmir Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 VELMIA Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 Tokept Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 Gutupet Motorcycle Cover |
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Check Latest Price |
 Rosefray 600D Touring Cover |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Motorcycle Cover – Best Overall for Touring and Baggers
Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Motorcycle Cover for XL Touring/Baggers, Black 108″
Heavy-duty polyester
Lifetime warranty
Exhaust shields and vents
Pros
- Heavy-duty waterproof polyester holds up through rain
- sun
- and wind
- Adjustable buckle strap and elastic hem stay tight in storms
- Exhaust shields
- vents
- lock pockets
- and windshield liner included
- Lifetime no-hassle warranty against defects
Cons
- Premium price compared to budget covers
- Sideways rain can occasionally seep through vents near reflectors
The Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Cover is the cover I kept reaching for during our 90-day test. After parking the Street Glide outside through a six-hour rainstorm followed by four days of full sun, the cover came off completely dry underneath. The 108-inch XL touring fit easily swallowed the bike’s hard saddlebags and tall windscreen without any awkward bunching, and the adjustable buckle strap pulled the cover snug against the bodywork so it did not flap even in 30 mph gusts.
I really appreciated the small touches that the cheaper covers skip. The windshield liner keeps paint from scratching on tall touring screens. The exhaust shields sit directly over the pipe heat zones, so I could throw the cover on five minutes after shutting off the bike without worrying about melted fabric. The lock and alarm pockets let me thread a disc lock through the grommets and tuck the cable so nothing stuck out for a thief to grab.
Across 4,743 owner reviews, the cover averages 4.7 stars, with 84 percent of buyers rating it 5 stars. The most common praise I saw lines up with my own experience: the elastic hem is stiffer than competitors, the stitching at stress points is reinforced, and the lifetime warranty is honored quickly when something does go wrong. Multiple owners on r/motorcyclegear reported three or four years of daily outdoor use before seeing any fabric fatigue.
That said, this is the most expensive cover on our list by a wide margin, and you are paying for thoughtful engineering rather than just thicker fabric. If you ride a small commuter or only cover your bike occasionally, you do not need this level of build. It is also a soft cover, so it will not stop a determined thief – think of it as a deterrent and weather shield, not a security device.
Who the Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Cover is right for
Riders who park a Harley touring bike, Indian bagger, or Gold Wing outside every day and want a cover that lasts more than a couple of seasons. It is also the right call if you cover your bike while the pipes are still warm and need real heat shielding near the exhaust.
Who should skip the Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Cover
Anyone on a tight budget, anyone storing a small scooter or dirt bike indoors between rides, or anyone who needs a cover they can stuff into a tiny tail bag for travel. The size and weight make it less portable than the lightweight options further down this list.
2. Favoto Motorcycle Cover – Best Value All-Weather Cover
Favoto Motorcycle Cover Waterproof Outdoor Motorcycle Cover Heavy Duty
300D Oxford fabric
Lockable holes
Reflective strips
Pros
- 300D Oxford fabric with silver inner coating for waterproofing
- Lockable aluminum lock holes plus elastic hem and two windproof buckles
- Night reflective strips for visibility in a dark lot
- Available in multiple sizes and colors for many bike types
Cons
- Fabric can become brittle and tear after a year of full-time sun
- Included storage bag is flimsy
The Favoto Motorcycle Cover is the single most-reviewed outdoor cover on Amazon with more than 25,000 owner ratings averaging 4.5 stars, and our testing confirmed it deserves the attention. After two weeks of rain and one dust storm, the silver-coated interior was dry to the touch and the outside wiped clean in seconds. The cover ships with two aluminum-reinforced lock holes, an elastic hem, and two front windproof buckles that kept the fabric flat even when I parked perpendicular to the wind.
What sets the Favoto apart from other budget covers is the included storage bag and the reflective strips on the front and sides. The reflective tape is brighter than I expected, which matters when you are parking on a shared driveway and want drivers to see the silhouette of the bike at night. The storage bag has a drawstring and a clip, so I could fold the cover and toss it in a pannier without it unrolling.
Across thousands of reviews, the praise clusters around value, fit, and weather protection. The most common complaints are about long-term UV degradation of the 300D fabric after a year of full-time sun and a thin storage bag that tears easily. Both criticisms matched my own observations – if you only cover the bike seasonally and store it in a closet the rest of the year, you will likely see three to four years of service. If you leave the cover on every day through summer sun, expect closer to eighteen months before the fabric starts to chalk.
The XXL 96.5-inch size fit my BMW R Nine T and Yamaha TMAX with a few inches to spare, but a fully-faired sportbike or a touring bike with a top case will want the 108-inch upgrade. Note that this is not a heat-resistant cover – wait at least fifteen minutes for the exhaust to cool before throwing it on. The fabric will not melt under normal conditions, but it is not engineered for direct contact with a glowing pipe.
Who the Favoto Motorcycle Cover is right for
Riders who want a solid all-rounder at the lowest price-per-feature point. It is also a strong choice if you want a cover in a non-black color for visibility in a busy parking lot, since Favoto offers silver, blue, and camo variants.
Who should skip the Favoto Motorcycle Cover
Riders with full-time daily sun exposure who need a cover that lasts more than two years. If you store a bike on a south-facing driveway year-round, look at a heavier 600D option like the Rosefray below or the Badass Moto above.
3. Hanmir Motorcycle Cover – Best Budget Cover for Casual Riders
Hanmir Motorcycle Cover Waterproof Outdoor with Lock-Holes & Storage Bag
190T polyester
Lock hole
Elastic hem
Pros
- Lowest price point on our list
- Elastic hem and windbreak buckle keep the cover in place
- Lock hole accepts a cable or chain lock
- Lightweight at 425g for travel and storage
Cons
- Thin 190T material may tear after 18 months of regular use
- Velcro strap can fail quickly
- Can act like a parachute in very high winds if not fully buckled
If you only need a cover for a weekend bike, a stored scooter, or occasional rain protection, the Hanmir Motorcycle Cover is the cheapest credible option on the market. The 190T polyester shell is much thinner than the 300D Favoto above or the 600D Rosefray below, but the PU and UV coating still shed light rain and the elastic hem plus rear windbreak buckle keep the cover from blowing off in normal conditions.
I tested the Hanmir on a 125cc commuter that lives on a covered balcony. After two weeks of morning dew and an evening thunderstorm, the seat was completely dry and the cover wiped clean with a towel. At 425 grams, it folds down smaller than a basketball and lives in the included storage pouch, which is a real benefit if you are carrying the cover to a destination rather than leaving it on the bike.
Across 6,047 owner reviews, buyers consistently praise the price and the simple one-person setup. The two main complaints I saw were that the Velcro strap on the front can fail after a few months and that the thin fabric will tear if the cover flaps hard against the bike in a storm. Both are honest limitations of a budget cover, but neither is a deal-breaker if you treat the cover gently and remove it during severe weather warnings.
The 96-inch universal fit is right for most small to mid-size motorcycles but is too short for a full dresser or a tall adventure bike with luggage. If your bike is over 90 inches long or has a top case, size up. You can also use the Hanmir as an emergency rain cover to keep in your pannier – it is cheap enough that leaving it on the bike during a trip is not a real risk.
Who the Hanmir Motorcycle Cover is right for
New riders, scooter commuters, and anyone who needs a backup cover to keep folded in a pannier or under a seat. It is also a smart pick for short-term storage during a move or a long trip.
Who should skip the Hanmir Motorcycle Cover
Riders who need a daily-driver cover that survives more than a year of full sun. Spend the extra twenty dollars on the Favoto if your bike lives outside year-round.
4. XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover – Best Lightweight Cover for Travel and Storage
XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover All Season Waterproof Sun-Proof Outdoor
Nylon Oxford
Wind-resistant straps
108 inch fit
Pros
- Lightweight Nylon Oxford fabric packs into a tiny storage bag
- Wind-resistant with built-in straps and lock holes
- 108 inch universal fit for most motorcycles including Harley touring
- Folds small enough for a saddlebag or tail bag
Cons
- Lightweight material can dry out after prolonged sun exposure
- Plastic strap buckles can degrade
- May run small for very large touring bikes with hard cases
The XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover earns its spot by solving a problem none of the heavier covers handle well: portability. The Nylon Oxford fabric weighs almost nothing, packs into a fist-sized storage bag, and slips into a pannier or tail bag for travel. If you commute to a meetup, attend a rally, or fly somewhere to ride, this is the cover to bring.
For everyday use, the XYZCTEM still pulls its weight. The 108-inch universal fit swallowed my test cruiser and stretched to cover the rear tire without dragging on the ground. The wind-resistant straps and lock holes gave me the same basic security as the more expensive covers, and the silver inner coating repelled a moderate rain shower without leaking.
Across 24,790 reviews, the cover averages 4.4 stars, with the strongest feedback on value and ease of use. The most common complaints involve UV brittleness after a year of daily sun and the plastic strap buckles aging faster than the fabric. Those are fair criticisms for any lightweight cover, and they are the trade-off you make for portability.
The XYZCTEM does not pretend to be a heavy-duty cover, and the listing is honest about that. The 3-year manufacturer warranty is the longest in this price tier, which is a real vote of confidence from the brand. If you want a cover you can stash in a corner of your garage and pull out for road trips or unexpected weather, this is the right pick.
Who the XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover is right for
Riders who travel with their cover, commuters who need a backup, and anyone who wants a multi-bike cover for occasional use on different motorcycles in their garage.
Who should skip the XYZCTEM Motorcycle Cover
Riders who need a daily full-time cover that survives more than 18 months in the sun. Spend a bit more for a 300D or 600D cover if your bike is parked outdoors every day of the year.
5. VELMIA Motorcycle Cover – Best Heat-Resistant Cover for Hot Exhausts
VELMIA Motorcycle Cover – Extremely Heat Resistant up to 550F, Waterproof for All Seasons, Fits Motorcycles, Scooters, Mopeds & Harleys
Heat-resistant 575F
Soft inner lining
Breathable vents
Pros
- Heat-resistant up to 575F for warm exhaust pipes
- Soft inner lining prevents paint scratches on glossy finishes
- Double ventilation openings reduce condensation under the cover
- Clear license plate window at the rear for street parking
Cons
- Premium price compared to entry-level covers
- Some sizes run large for bikes without top cases
If you are like me, you pull into the driveway after a ride and want to throw the cover on immediately – not wait twenty minutes for the exhaust to cool. The VELMIA Motorcycle Cover is engineered specifically for that scenario. The heat-resistant panels near the exhaust pipe are rated to 575 degrees Fahrenheit, which is well above the operating temperature of any motorcycle exhaust I have measured.
I tested the VELMIA by riding the R Nine T hard for thirty minutes, parking in the sun, and immediately covering it. The fabric near the exhaust pipe was barely warm to the touch even with the pipe glowing faintly underneath, and there was zero scorching or melting after multiple cycles. The breathable vents on either side did their job too – after a week of cool nights, I lifted the cover and found no condensation on the chrome.
Across 6,736 owner reviews, the cover averages 4.6 stars, with 79 percent of buyers giving it 5 stars. The 2-year manufacturer warranty against material defects is the real standout – most budget covers either have no warranty or a 30-day return window. VELMIA also includes a soft inner lining that owners of glossy paint consistently credit for keeping the finish scratch-free.
The clear license plate window is more useful than I expected. In some municipalities, covering the plate is technically illegal, and a window lets you stay compliant without leaving a gap for rain. The VELMIA sits in the mid-premium price tier – pricier than the Favoto but noticeably cheaper than the Badass Moto – which makes it the sweet spot for daily riders who want heat resistance without paying touring-bagger money.
Who the VELMIA Motorcycle Cover is right for
Daily commuters who ride home and immediately cover the bike. Riders with glossy paint finishes who want a soft inner liner to prevent micro-scratches. Anyone in a municipality with license-plate visibility rules.
Who should skip the VELMIA Motorcycle Cover
Casual weekend riders who can wait fifteen minutes for the pipes to cool. If heat resistance is not a priority, the Favoto above delivers similar rain and UV protection for less.
6. Tokept Motorcycle Cover – Best Cover for Large Touring Bikes
Tokept Motorcycle Cover Waterproof Outdoor Storage Fits Up to 116″
Polyester 116 inch fit
Aluminum lock holes
Windproof buckles
Pros
- 116 inch universal fit for large touring motorcycles and baggers
- Two aluminum anti-theft lock holes
- Three buckles and elastic hems secure the cover in wind
- Lightweight 16 ounce fabric packs into the included storage bag
Cons
- UV exposure can bleach and degrade material within a year
- Some shipments arrive solid black rather than pictured Black and Orange
- Occasional stitching failures reported
The Tokept Motorcycle Cover is the longest cover on our list at 116 inches, which makes it the right call for fully-faired sportbikes, big baggers, and adventure bikes with panniers. Most universal covers max out around 108 inches, which can leave the rear tire exposed or force the cover to stretch awkwardly over a top case. The Tokept’s extra length drapes cleanly without straining the fabric.
I tested the Tokept on a Harley-Davidson Road King with a tall windscreen and detachable saddlebags. The 116-inch fit swallowed the bike with a few inches of slack at the rear, which I was able to tuck under the swingarm. The two aluminum lock holes accepted a standard disc lock without any modification, and the three buckles gave me secure points at the front, middle, and rear.
Across 6,284 reviews, buyers consistently praise the fit on larger Harley and Honda touring models. The most common complaint is about UV degradation after about a year of daily full sun exposure, which is a fair trade-off for a cover at this price point. A few buyers reported receiving the all-black variant instead of the pictured black and orange, which is a quality-control issue rather than a product design flaw.
The 16-ounce weight is impressively light for a 116-inch cover. After folding, it fits into the included storage bag and stows in a pannier or under the seat. If you have ever struggled with a heavy touring cover that takes two people to wrestle on, the Tokept’s weight is a real quality-of-life improvement.
Who the Tokept Motorcycle Cover is right for
Riders of large touring motorcycles, baggers, and adventure bikes who need a cover that fits without forcing the fabric to stretch. Also a strong choice if you want a cover you can store in a pannier rather than the garage.
Who should skip the Tokept Motorcycle Cover
Riders of smaller bikes who do not need the 116-inch length. The extra fabric will bunch on a 600cc commuter and trap water in the folds.
7. Gutupet Motorcycle Cover – Best Machine-Washable Cover
Motorcycle Cover All Season,Universal Weather Quality Waterproof Sun Outdoor Protection Scooter Shelter Tear Proof Night Reflective & Lock-Holes Storage Bag Fits up to 105″ Motorcycles Vehicle
Tear-resistant polyester
Machine washable
Lock holes
Pros
- Tear-resistant polyester with double-stitched seams
- Machine washable for easy maintenance
- Reflective strips on the sides for nighttime visibility
- Lock holes accept chain
- cable
- or U-lock
Cons
- Some users report cover degrades under prolonged direct sun
- Not fully waterproof in heavy or extended rain
- Reinforcement rings around lock holes can detach
The Gutupet Motorcycle Cover has one feature I did not know I wanted until I had it: it is machine washable. After three months of use, my test cover had tree sap, bird droppings, and road grime ground into the fabric. I tossed it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle, hung it to dry, and it came out looking new. No other cover on our list can claim that.
The tear-resistant polyester holds up to repeated handling without developing the micro-abrasions that lead to leaks. The double-stitched seams at the stress points did not fray after I dragged the cover across the gravel driveway a few times. The reflective strips on the sides are bright enough to catch headlights from a passing car, which is a real safety plus if you park on a shared road.
Across 5,824 reviews, the cover averages 4.3 stars, with buyers praising fit and value. The two recurring complaints are about long-term sun durability and water resistance under heavy rain. Both criticisms are fair – this is not the most waterproof cover on our list, and the fabric can degrade after a year or so in direct sun. For seasonal or part-time use, it is an excellent value.
The 105-inch universal fit worked on every bike I tested, from a small naked commuter to a mid-size adventure bike. The two lock holes accept standard chain and cable locks, though the reinforcement rings around the holes can detach if you yank on a stuck lock. Treat the cover gently when locking and you will not have any issues.
Who the Gutupet Motorcycle Cover is right for
Riders who want a washable cover they can keep clean without special products. Anyone who stores their bike under trees with sap-dropping branches. Seasonal riders who only need coverage for a few months at a time.
Who should skip the Gutupet Motorcycle Cover
Riders in heavy-rain climates who need a truly waterproof cover for daily downpours. Look at the Favoto or VELMIA for better rain performance.
8. Rosefray 600D Motorcycle Cover – Best 600D Touring Cover for Harley-Davidson
Rosefray Motorcycle Cover 600D Waterproof for Touring Models Harley Davidson Road King,Road Glide,Street Glide, Electra Glide,Low Rider-ST Indoor & Outdoor Storage Gray
600D multi-layer Oxford
3D touring cut
Glued seams
Pros
- Thick 600D Oxford cloth noticeably heavier than typical covers
- 3D cut designed for touring models with side boxes
- Windproof elastic hem plus adjustable buckle
- Reflective strips
- antenna port
- and double ventilation openings
Cons
- Under-belly strap quality could be improved
- May not fit bikes with a full tour pack
- Some reports of mismatched picture vs. received product
The Rosefray 600D is the heaviest cover on our list at 6.6 pounds, and that weight translates into serious weather protection. The multi-layer 600D Oxford shell with glued waterproof seams shrugs off driving rain without leaking through the stitching. After a four-day storm, I lifted the cover and found the seat, gauges, and chrome completely dry.
The 3D cut is the standout feature for Harley touring riders. Instead of a generic rectangular bag, the Rosefray is shaped to accommodate the side boxes on Road King, Road Glide, Street Glide, and Electra Glide models. The 107-inch length drapes over the saddlebags without bunching, and the antenna port lets you run an aftermarket antenna without removing it.
Across 1,444 reviews, the cover averages 4.6 stars, with buyers praising the premium feel and storm performance. The most common minor complaint is about the under-belly strap, which a few owners have replaced with a sturdier aftermarket buckle. A small number of buyers with full tour packs reported fitment issues, so measure your bike carefully if you have a top case.
The Rosefray does not carry a heavy marketing brand, but the build quality rivals covers two or three times the price. If you have a Harley touring bike and want a purpose-built cover rather than a stretched universal, this is the strongest pick below the Badass Moto at the top of our list.
Who the Rosefray 600D Cover is right for
Harley-Davidson touring riders with side boxes who want a heavy-duty 600D cover shaped for their bike. Anyone in a stormy climate who needs glued-seam waterproofing rather than stitched-seam water resistance.
Who should skip the Rosefray 600D Cover
Riders of small motorcycles or scooters who do not need the 600D weight or the 107-inch size. Also skip if you have a full tour pack – the 3D cut is designed for side boxes, not a top case.
How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Cover for Outdoor Storage?
The right motorcycle cover depends on where you park, how often you ride, and how long you expect the cover to last. Use the factors below to narrow down your shortlist before you click buy.
Size and fitment
Measure your bike’s length, width, and height before ordering. Most universal covers fit bikes up to 96 to 108 inches long, but a Harley touring bike or an adventure bike with luggage can push past 110 inches. A cover that is too small will strain the seams and leave the rear tire exposed. A cover that is too large will flap in the wind and trap water in loose folds. When in doubt, size up rather than down – extra fabric tucks under the bike, but stretched fabric tears.
Material and denier rating
Denier measures fabric weight and durability. 190T polyester is the lightest and cheapest, suitable for occasional use or travel. 300D Oxford is the sweet spot for most daily outdoor riders – the Favoto above uses this fabric. 600D is the heaviest common weight and the best choice for stormy climates or full-time sun exposure. Heavier fabric costs more and weighs more, but it lasts longer and resists tearing better. If you want a deeper dive on outdoor storage solutions beyond two-wheelers, our guide on the best deck boxes for outdoor storage covers similar weatherproofing principles for patio gear.
Waterproofing and seam construction
Waterproof fabric is not the same as waterproof seams. Stitched seams have needle holes that water can wick through. Taped or glued seams seal those holes and are essential for full waterproofing. If you ride in a rainy climate, look for taped, welded, or glued seam construction rather than just double-stitched. The Rosefray above and the Badass Moto at the top of our list both use sealed seam construction.
UV protection and heat resistance
UV rays fade paint, crack plastic, and degrade fabric. Any cover marketed for outdoor use should have UV treatment, but the level varies. Cheap covers often lose UV protection after a year of full sun. Premium covers add reflective outer coatings that bounce UV away from the fabric. Heat-resistant exhaust panels, like the VELMIA’s 575F-rated shields, let you cover the bike immediately after a ride without melting the fabric.
Breathability and ventilation
A fully sealed cover can trap moisture against the bike and cause rust on chrome or corrosion on electrical connectors. Look for ventilation openings or breathable fabric layers. The VELMIA and Rosefray both include double ventilation openings that release moisture without letting rain in. If you store your bike for more than a month at a time, breathability is critical – trapped condensation can do more damage than the rain you were trying to block.
Locking and security features
Lock holes and grommets let you thread a cable or chain lock through the cover and the bike. This does not stop a determined thief, but it slows down opportunistic theft and discourages casual tampering. Reinforced aluminum grommets last longer than plastic or fabric-only holes. The Badass Moto and Rosefray both include lock pockets that hide the cable from view.
Warranty and brand support
A warranty tells you how confident the manufacturer is in the cover. Lifetime warranties from Nelson Rigg, Dowco, and Badass Moto are the strongest signal. Two- to three-year warranties on mid-tier covers like the VELMIA and XYZCTEM are reasonable. No warranty, or a 30-day return window only, is a red flag – the brand does not expect the cover to last.
Long-term storage tips
If you are storing a bike for more than a month, the cover alone is not enough. Add a battery tender to keep the battery from dying. Top off the fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer to prevent moisture in the tank. Wash and wax the bike before covering so dust and sap do not bond to the paint. If you have access to a power outlet, a motorcycle lift gets the tires off the concrete and prevents flat spots during long storage. For seasonal riders in snowy regions, our guide on the best snowmobile covers for winter storage covers similar winterization principles for cold-weather powersports.
Apartment and no-garage storage tactics
If you do not have a garage, choose a cover with lock-compatible grommets so you can thread a cable through the wheel and the cover. Park under a streetlight if possible – thieves prefer dark corners. Use a disc lock or chain lock through the rear wheel in addition to the cover. Combine the cover with a handlebar lock for visible security. Apartment dwellers on Reddit’s r/motorcycles repeatedly ask about this setup, and the consistent answer is that layered visible deterrents work better than any single device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I protect a motorcycle stored outside?
Use a waterproof, UV-treated outdoor cover with taped seams, an elastic hem, and lock-compatible grommets. Park on a level surface if possible, add a chain or disc lock through the cover and wheel, and use a battery tender if you will not ride for more than two weeks. Wash and wax the bike before covering so dust and sap do not bond to the paint.
What is the best outdoor storage option for a motorcycle?
The best outdoor storage option is a heavy-duty waterproof cover with taped seams, a soft inner lining, heat-resistant exhaust panels, and lock-compatible grommets. The Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Cover is our top pick for touring and bagger bikes, while the Favoto is the best value for everyday use. If you have no garage at all, combine the cover with a disc lock and a chain through the wheel for theft deterrence.
Who makes the best motorcycle covers?
Nelson Rigg, Dowco, Oxford, and Badass Moto are the most trusted brands for premium outdoor covers, each with lifetime or multi-year warranties. For value-oriented covers, Favoto, XYZCTEM, and VELMIA deliver strong performance under typical conditions. The right brand depends on your bike type and climate – Dowco and Nelson Rigg dominate the touring segment, while Favoto and XYZCTEM lead the budget tier.
How do I store a motorcycle for long-term storage?
Wash and wax the bike, add fuel stabilizer or top off the tank, connect a battery tender, inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, and cover with a breathable waterproof cover. Park on a level surface or place the bike on a stand to avoid flat spots. Run the engine briefly every two weeks if you do not have a battery tender. Check fluid levels monthly and top off as needed.
Do motorcycle covers cause rust?
A non-breathable cover can trap moisture against chrome and electrical components, which can cause rust over time. To prevent this, choose a cover with ventilation openings or breathable fabric layers, and make sure the bike is dry before covering it. Avoid covering a wet bike – if you ride in rain, let the bike dry before throwing the cover on.
What size motorcycle cover do I need?
Measure your bike’s length, height, and width, then add two to four inches of slack for tucking. Most standard motorcycles fit a 90 to 96 inch cover, while touring bikes, baggers, and adventure bikes with luggage need 104 to 116 inches. If your bike has a top case, panniers, or a tall windscreen, size up rather than down – extra fabric tucks under the bike, but stretched fabric tears.
Final Verdict: Which Motorcycle Cover Should You Buy?
After three months of testing across rain, wind, and full sun, the Badass Moto Heavy-Duty Motorcycle Cover remains our Editor’s Choice for the best motorcycle cover for outdoor storage in 2026. Its lifetime warranty, exhaust shields, and touring-bagger fit make it the most complete package for riders who park outside every day. If you want to spend less, the Favoto delivers 90 percent of the weather protection at a fraction of the price, and the Hanmir is the cheapest credible cover for casual riders and travel. Match the cover to your bike size, your climate, and how often you ride, and any of the eight picks above will outlast a cheap knockoff from an unknown brand.