If you are a motorcycle rider, you need to do everything possible to shield your bike from rain, sun, and snow. Many bike enthusiasts leave their motorcycles outside, sometimes unprotected. Leaving a bike outside exposes it to the elements and significantly increases its chances of deteriorating.
This article plans to explain this topic in more detail and will tell you about a few essential tips you can use to shield your motorcycle from inclement weather and anything that could damage it. Read on to find out more.
Rent a Storage Locker
One of the most effective ways to store a motorcycle to shield it from adverse weather is to rent a storage locker and keep it there. Whether you need winter motorcycle storage or somewhere to put it year-round, make sure you find a unit offered by a company with good reviews, reliable security, and responsive customer service.
Here are some other qualities to look for in a storage locker:
- Humidity-controlled units prevent humidity from destroying your belongings.
- Temperature controls to mitigate cold or heat damage.
- Security cameras and alarm systems on every unit.
- Affordable plans.
- Discounts for customers who book online.
Park Under Shelter
Not everybody can afford to keep their bike in a storage locker. If you are one such person, then park your bike under a shelter instead. Parking it under a shelter allows you to protect it from some types of weather, but not all.
Horizontal rain can still damage your bike, and so can flooding or snow. Still, parking under a shelter is a good idea and something definitely worth doing if you cannot afford to keep it in a storage locker.
Apply Wax Sealant
Wax sealant is a fantastic way to keep your bike safe if you plan on storing it outdoors. It can help protect your bike’s paint job. There are many different types of wax sealant you can use, so shop around and find the right one for you. A good way to find the right wax sealant is to read a guide specific to the type of bike you have or plan to buy.
Use a UV-Resistant Cover
A UV-resistant cover is essential if you plan on storing your motorcycle outdoors. This is because if you do not use one, your bike could end up getting heat and sun damage. Both of these types of damage can cause its paint to fade prematurely and even damage its internal components.
There are many UV-resistant covers available online. Try to find one that is waterproof, too. A waterproof cover will help to prevent water from damaging your bike and ensure that it remains in good condition throughout your time using it.
Prevent Corrosion
Corrosion can cause some very serious problems for your bike. It’s essential to treat it with a corrosion inhibitor if you plan on storing it outdoors, because outdoor storage is one of the main causes of corrosion. As well as a corrosion inhibitor, do everything possible to make sure that your bike isn’t exposed to rain or snow.
Even with proper treatment and a cover, it’s still a good idea to bring your bike inside on the coldest, wettest, or snowiest days. Leaving it in the hallway of your house can protect your investment and prevent your vehicle from deteriorating prematurely.
Prevent Condensation with a Breathable Cover
Condensation can still form, even if you have a cover on your bike. Since condensation is pure moisture, it goes without saying that untreated condensation can seriously damage your vehicle. You can prevent condensation by investing in and using a breathable cover. Breathable covers are widely available and very affordable.
It’s even possible to find ones that provide UV protection. If you plan on investing in and using a breathable cover, make sure you find one that has good reviews and is highly recommended by other motorcycle owners like yourself.
Use Protective Mats for the Tires
Why cover your entire bike but leave its tires unprotected? Protective mats under your tires can prevent heat or cold damage from occurring. Damage to your tires is the last thing you want. Damaged tires pose a significant health threat not just to you but also to others sharing the road with you.
You can protect your tires by using mats and having them checked regularly. If your tires do sustain damage, it’s important to change them out immediately. The sooner you change your tires, the less likely it is that they will get so damaged that they become a health hazard.
Use a Waterproof Seat Liner
A waterproof seat liner is essential, whether you are storing your bike at home or riding it. These seat liners shield the leather on your bike’s seat from damage, deterioration, or moisture. The last thing any rider wants is to sit on a wet seat.
Use Tank and Seat Covers to Prevent Fading
Use tank and seat covers to prevent fading. Extended sun exposure will eventually cause your bike to fade all over. Fading can make your bike less attractive and devalue it.
Think About Your Bike’s Security
Security is essential. You should carefully consider the security of your bike. One of the worst things that you can do is to leave your bike in a vulnerable position. Bike thieves are everywhere, so if you give them the chance, they’ll steal your bike.
Vandalism is a threat to your bike’s safety, too. Criminals can take many different forms. Not all are thieves. Some individuals will intentionally damage your bike without any reason. You can protect your bike by keeping it in a storage locker or garage.
Final Thoughts
Shield your bike from inclement weather so you can ride it for many years to come. With so much going on in the world, ranging from climate change to an uptick in the number of property crimes across the United States, it has never been more important to take steps to protect your vehicles.