When it comes to protecting your beloved motorcycle from the elements, having the right cover is essential. A quality motorcycle cover not only shields your bike from rain, sun, and dust but can also serve as a deterrent to thieves. With numerous options available on the market, finding the perfect cover might seem overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the key factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle cover that offers both protection and longevity.
Material considerations for motorcycle covers
The material of your motorcycle cover is perhaps the most crucial factor determining its effectiveness and durability. As experts at kammann-automobile.de and other motorcycle accessory specialists note, the right material can make the difference between a cover that lasts for years and one that deteriorates after a single season.
Weather-resistant fabrics and their benefits
Weather-resistant fabrics are the backbone of any quality motorcycle cover. Polyester with polyurethane coating offers excellent water resistance while remaining relatively lightweight. Materials with UV inhibitors prevent sun damage and colour fading, especially important if your bike is stored outdoors. Premium covers like the Oxford Stormex, priced at around £59.99, incorporate multiple layers of fabric treatment to provide comprehensive protection against rain, snow, and harmful UV rays. These weatherproof materials not only keep your motorcycle dry but also prevent moisture-related issues like rust and corrosion that can affect your bike's mechanical components and paintwork.
Comparing polyester, nylon, and other common materials
Different materials offer varying levels of protection and durability. Polyester is widely used due to its excellent balance of water resistance, durability, and affordability. The Oxford Aquatex cover, available from £16.06, uses lightweight polyester that packs down small yet offers reliable waterproofing. Nylon covers such as the MotoGP series feature a 210D nylon shell that provides good water resistance while remaining relatively lightweight. For premium protection, some manufacturers use Oxford cloth or similar high-density fabrics that offer superior tear resistance and longevity. When examining materials, pay attention to the denier count; higher numbers indicate thicker, more durable fabric. The inner lining is equally important—soft fleece or cotton linings prevent scratches, while heat-resistant panels protect against hot exhausts, a feature found in premium covers like the R&G Adventure cover.
Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Motorcycle
Even the most expensive, technically advanced cover will fail to protect your motorcycle properly if it doesn't fit correctly. A well-fitted cover prevents wind from getting underneath and potentially causing damage or blowing the cover off entirely.
Measuring your bike correctly for proper coverage
Before purchasing a cover, take accurate measurements of your motorcycle. Measure the length from the front edge of the front tyre to the rear edge of the back tyre. Measure the height from the ground to the highest point (typically the windscreen or handlebars), and the width across the widest point (usually the handlebars or mirrors). Most manufacturers offer size guides; for example, Oxford covers come in various lengths: 203cm, 229cm, 246cm, and 277cm. When in doubt, it's better to choose a slightly larger size to allow for accessories like top boxes or panniers. Remember that some stretching may occur over time, so factor in a small amount of additional space. Adventure bike owners should look at specialised covers like the R&G Adventure Motorcycle Cover, which is designed with the dimensions and features of these larger bikes in mind.
Features that ensure a snug, wind-resistant fit
A secure fit is essential, especially in windy conditions. Look for covers with elasticated hems that grip the bottom of your motorcycle. The R&G Adventure cover includes an elasticated rim and belly straps that prevent the cover from billowing in strong winds. Some covers feature adjustable straps or buckles at strategic points to create a custom, tight fit. Reinforced grommets or built-in loops allow you to thread a lock through for added security—a feature recommended by the Metropolitan Police as part of their 'lock, chain, cover' approach to motorcycle theft prevention. For particularly windy areas, consider covers with additional anchor points at the bottom. The Favoto Motorbike Cover, priced at £21.84, incorporates these security features while maintaining good value for money.
Ventilation systems and moisture control
While keeping water out is crucial, allowing air to circulate is equally important for preventing moisture buildup that can lead to mould, mildew, and corrosion.
How proper airflow prevents condensation damage
When a motorcycle is covered without adequate ventilation, temperature changes can cause condensation to form underneath the cover. This trapped moisture becomes problematic, particularly when a bike is stored for extended periods. Breathable materials allow water vapour to escape while still keeping rain and snow out. The Oxford Dormex indoor cover, priced from £18.90, is specifically designed with breathability in mind to prevent rust during long-term storage. For motorcycles stored outdoors, this breathability becomes even more critical, as temperature fluctuations between day and night can create significant condensation. Without proper ventilation, this moisture can cause chrome parts to rust, electrical components to corrode, and leather or vinyl seats to develop mould.
Design elements that balance protection with breathability
Modern motorcycle covers incorporate clever design elements to balance waterproofing with necessary airflow. Mesh panels strategically placed near the bottom of the cover allow air to circulate while still preventing dust intrusion. Some high-end covers feature one-way moisture-wicking technology that allows water vapour to escape but prevents rain from entering. The Richbrook Indoor Cover utilises stretchy lycra and satin fabric that provides protection while remaining breathable, making it ideal for garage storage. For covers used in humid environments, look for models with additional vents under the windscreen area or near the exhaust. These design features ensure your motorcycle remains dry from both external precipitation and internal condensation, striking the perfect balance between protection and airflow.
Security features worth investing in
A good motorcycle cover doesn't just protect against the elements—it can also serve as a deterrent to thieves and an additional layer of security for your valuable bike.
Lock-compatible designs and anti-theft measures
Security-conscious covers incorporate features that work alongside your existing motorcycle security systems. Lock holes or reinforced grommets allow you to secure the cover to your motorcycle while simultaneously threading a chain through the wheel and around a fixed object. The Oxford Stormex cover includes these lock-compatible features, which align with police recommendations for motorcycle security. Some premium covers even incorporate alarms or motion sensors that trigger if someone attempts to remove the cover. While these technologically advanced options cost more, they provide additional peace of mind, especially in urban areas with higher theft rates. The visibility aspect is also important—thieves typically prefer to see what they're stealing, so simply having a cover acts as an initial deterrent by hiding the make and model of your motorcycle.
Securing your cover in high-wind conditions
Wind poses a dual threat—it can damage your motorcycle if the cover flaps against the paintwork, and it can blow the cover off entirely, leaving your bike exposed. Security features that address wind issues include under-belly straps like those found on the R&G Adventure cover. These straps connect beneath the motorcycle, preventing the cover from lifting in strong gusts. Some covers feature weighted edges or additional tie-down points for extra stability in extreme weather. The BikeIt Heavy Duty Rain Cover combines waterproof PVC construction with secure fastening systems designed to withstand challenging weather conditions. When using these features, ensure they don't scratch your motorcycle's finish—quality covers include soft material at potential contact points to protect delicate surfaces while still providing wind resistance.
Evaluating durability and long-term value
When investing in a motorcycle cover, considering the long-term value rather than just the initial price often leads to better protection and satisfaction over time.
Understanding warranty coverage and manufacturer guarantees
Warranty terms often reflect a manufacturer's confidence in their product. Premium covers like the Nelson-Rigg Defender Extreme come with impressive lifetime warranties, suggesting exceptional durability and construction quality. Most reputable brands offer at least one to two years of warranty coverage against manufacturing defects. When evaluating warranties, pay attention to what's covered—some only protect against seam separation, while others include UV degradation or water resistance failure. Storage conditions may affect warranty validity, so check if using the cover in certain environments voids the guarantee. Manufacturers like Oxford have established strong reputations in the motorcycle accessory market, with their covers receiving high ratings in MCN tests after months of real-world use. These test results provide valuable insights into how well a cover performs beyond the initial purchase period.
Interpreting user reviews for real-world performance insights
User reviews offer practical insights into how covers perform in actual use. The Oxford Stormex has garnered an impressive 4.8/5 rating from over 1000 reviews on SportsBikeShop, indicating consistent customer satisfaction. When reading reviews, look for comments about specific aspects that matter to you—whether the cover remains waterproof after a year, how it handles in windy conditions, or if the fit is true to size. Pay particular attention to reviews from users with similar motorcycles to yours and in comparable climate conditions. Professional reviews from motorcycle publications like MCN are also valuable as they typically test covers systematically over extended periods. Their assessments of the Oxford Rainex cover, for example, include ratings for water resistance (5/5), heat resistance (3/5), and abrasion resistance (4/5), providing a comprehensive evaluation of performance across different criteria.
