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May 3, 2012

Motorcycle Cover Buying Guide

Motorcycle cover

A motorcycle cover protects your bike from dirt, UV rays, and moisture.

Protecting your bike with a motorcycle cover is a simple, cheap way to keep it looking good and prevent weather damage. Different types of covers are available, depending on how you store your bike and where you ride.

Motorcycle Travel Cover

Need a compact bike cover for the road? Motorcycle travel covers are designed to protect your bike from rain, UV rays, and the elements while away from home.

Since travel covers are compact and lightweight, you can easily store them in a saddle bag with room to spare.

Motorcycle Dust Cover

If you store your motorcycle indoors, all you may need is a breathable cotton cover that repels dust and dirt. A motorcycle dust cover will not keep out moisture, so if your bike will be sitting out in the rain, you’ll need a waterproof cover.

Lined Storage Cover

A fully lined, water-resistant motorcycle cover provides protection from sun and weather exposure. The soft lining protects your bike’s finish, while the water-resistant, breathable outer cover protects your bike from rain and snow.

Some motorcycle covers are specially coated to protect your bike from UV rays. In sun-drenched states, UV protection is especially important.

Lined motorcycle covers can be used for travel, but they will take up more space in your luggage than a travel cover.

March 6, 2012

Motorcycle Storage Tips

Filed under: Motorcycle Covers — Tags: , , — Esther @ 7:07 pm
Motorcycle cover

Protect your bike during storage with a motorcycle cover.

If you plan to store your motorcycle for over a month, it’s important to take the right steps to winterize and prepare your bike for storage. You want your bike to be clean, purring, and ready to ride when warmer weather rolls around.

Storage Options

Where can you store your bike? Your storage options will depend on whether or not you’re willing to pay for storage, your connections (friends and neighbors who have extra storage space), and whether you want to store your bike indoors or out.

Assuming your wife puts her foot down when it comes to storing your motorcycle in the living room, your best option for protected storage is a shed or garage. A climate-controlled environment is best, but any four walls and a roof is better than outdoors.

Storing your motorcycle in a garage or shed means you can lock up your bike and keep it out of sight, which gives you peace of mind when it comes to keeping your bike from getting stolen.

If you don’t have a shed or garage, you might be able to rent space from a friend or neighbor. The next best scenario is to store your motorcycle underneath an awning, covered porch, or carport. Overhead protection is better than nothing.

Winterizing and Cleaning

If you plan to store your bike for a few months, you’ll need to winterize it and protect it before storage. Wash, dry, and wax your bike to remove road salt, chemicals, grime, and dirt. Protect exposed metal parts to prevent rust or corrosion. Winterize your bike to prepare it for storage, following your own winterizing routine or this checklist from Road Runner magazine.

Cover Protection

Regardless of where you store your bike (indoors, outdoors, shed, or carport), it’s important to protect your bike with a motorcycle cover. The type of cover you need will depend on where you store your bike. A dust cover protects your motorcycle in a climate-controlled, indoor environment. A storage cover protects your bike in a garage or outdoors.

Your outdoor storage motorcycle cover should be breathable and waterproof. A venting system allows condensation to escape and prevents rust, corrosion, and mold.

November 22, 2011

New Motorcycle Cover Available at DuraShield Covers

DuraShield Standard motorcycle cover

New! DuraShield Standard Motorcycle Cover

DuraShield Covers has a new motorcycle cover available. The Standard Motorcycle Cover is similar to our Lined Motorcycle Cover but without a cotton lining for a lower price. The Standard bike cover is lightweight for travel and folds up into a tight package for storage.

The DuraShield Standard Motorcycle Cover is versatile for indoor and outdoor use. The 300 denier poly fabric is waterproof, dustproof, and UV resistant. The lower portion of the cover is constructed with heat-resistant material that will not melt on hot pipes. No need to wait for your bike to cool down before installing the motorcycle cover!

A premium “Vent X” venting system allows condensation to evaporate without damaging your engine, pipes, or chrome, while effectively blocking rain and snow from seeping through the cover.

Grommets and tie downs are included for keeping the motorcycle cover secured in windy conditions. You can also thread a cable lock through the grommets to secure the cover and act as a theft deterrent for your bike.

A matching storage bag comes with the motorcycle cover at no extra cost. Use this handy storage bag to store your cover when not in use. This cover is available in X-large, large, and medium sizes. Free shipping on all orders to the continental United States!

July 19, 2011

Motorcycle Covers and Strong Winds

Filed under: Motorcycle Covers — Tags: , — Esther @ 5:10 pm
Motorcycle cover

The motorcycle cover should be tight enough to prevent excessive wind flapping.

In windy conditions, your motorcycle cover should be tied down tightly to prevent flapping in the wind. Excessive wind flapping can shred and destroy the cover and even damage the finish on your bike. Whenever possible, park your motorcycle in a sheltered area that provides at least some protection from the wind.

Fabric and Fit

The more snugly your motorcycle cover fits your bike, the less the cover will flap in the wind. Extra fabric can snap violently in strong winds. If the wind is strong enough, you’ll want to use more tie downs to secure the cover tightly to your motorcycle.

A heavier weight fabric performs better in windy conditions than a lightweight motorcycle cover. Air vents also help to prevent excessive lofting by allowing airflow underneath the cover.

Towing

Wind turbulence during towing is another problem. Make sure the motorcycle cover you use for travel is approved for towing. The cover must be snug and securely attached to the motorcycle. DuraShield motorcycle covers are not approved for towing on an open trailer. The wind flapping could easily rip apart the cover or damage your bike’s finish.

June 3, 2011

Classic Accessories Motorcycle Covers Now Available

Motorcycle cover

Classic Accessories Motorcycle Cover

Need a cover for your motorcycle, scooter, or trike? Classic Accessories motorcycle covers are now available from DuraShield! Don’t let garage debris or outdoor exposure get the best of your bike. Shield it from the elements with a Classic Accessories motorcycle cover.

Lined Motorcycle Cover

For outdoor storage, the Classic Accessories Lined Motorcycle Cover provides all the protection you need, with an interior heat shield, non-scratch windshield liner, and air vents. All-weather, UV resistant ProtekX™ Plus fabric protects against sun, rain, dirt, pollutants, and other elements. A matching stuff sack and two tie-down cords are included.

Travel Motorcycle Cover

For protection on the road, take cover with Classic Accessories Travel Motorcycle Cover. This lightweight outdoor cover protects against weather, dirt, and pollutants. Ultra-soft material in the upper panel protects against scratches, and a heat-resistant lower panel protects the cover from contact with hot pipes. An integrated stuff stack and two elastic tie-down hooks are included.

Motorcycle Dust Cover

For indoor protection, baby your bike with the Classic Accessories Motorcycle Dust Cover. This scratch-proof storage cover keeps your motorcycle dust-free while stored indoors. The PolyPro™ breathable fabric allows moisture to escape without damaging your bike, and an elasticized bottom hem and tie-down cords keep your cover secure. A matching stuff sack and two elastic tie-down cords are included.

Trike Cover

Need a cover for your trike? Get rugged, all weather protection indoors and outdoors with a Classic Accessories Trike Cover. This heavy-duty cover provides all-season protection against sun, rain, dirt, and pollutants with ProtekX™ Plus fabric. A soft windshield liner protects against scratches, and a metallic heat shield panel prevents the cover from melting on hot exhaust pipes. Dual vents allow for breathability and moisture control. A matching stuff sack and two hooked elastic tie-downs are included with this trike cover.

May 3, 2011

Do I Need a Motorcycle Cover?

A motorcycle dust cover keeps dirt and dust off your bike.

A motorcycle dust cover keeps dirt and dust off your bike.

One of the questions we hear motorcycle riders ask is, “Why do I need a motorcycle cover if my bike is stored in the garage?”

If you keep your motorcycle outside, the reasons for a cover are more obvious: protection from rain, dew, dirt, dust, and other elements. But if your motorcycle is pampered enough to earn a spot in the garage or even in the house, you might think you can get by without a cover. But a motorcycle cover still serves an important purpose, even if you store your bike indoors.

Dust and Dirt Protection

After washing and waxing your bike, you’ll want to keep it clean with a motorcycle cover. Dust and dirt can build up on your bike if you don’t protect it. When the garage door opens and closes, it stirs up dust that will settle on your bike, so it’s especially important to keep your motorcycle covered in the garage. During winter storage, a motorcycle cover will keep your bike clean and ready to ride when spring comes again.

Moisture Protection and Humidity

The more humid the environment where you live is, the more breathable your motorcycle cover needs to be. The higher the humidity, the more moisture that builds up underneath the motorcycle cover. With a breathable indoor motorcycle cover (such as 100% cotton), the moisture can escape easily without causing rust or other damage. The cotton cover keeps dirt and dust off your bike but allows condensation to evaporate easily.

April 13, 2011

Motorcycle Cover Reviews

The cotton lining is top notch and the size (large) is perfect for my 09 sport bike. - Sharon W.

"The cotton lining is top notch and the size (large) is perfect for my '09 sport bike." - Sharon W.

Travel Motorcycle Cover

“Fabulous, we bought 2 for a Harley Softail and Kawasaki Vulcan with windshields. They fit perfect. As for being weatherproof, not an issue—we only wanted them to keep the dust off while stored in the garage. Elastic bottom fits tight, and it will completely cover the front wheel, saddlebags and rear tire.”
- Philip G.

Lined Motorcycle Cover

“This motorcycle cover is exactly as described, and I found it to be of very good quality. The cotton lining is top notch and the size (large) is perfect for my ’09 sport bike.”
- Sharon W.

“Purchased this cover for my ’03 Dyna Lowrider and fits perfectly. Has held up well (better than past products I’ve owned) in the blazing Arizona sun.”
- “ElixirMixer”

“Very nice…the other one I have is just as good; the big difference is the soft cotton liner…I put [the other one on] a large windshield and was worried that taking it off and on would eventually scratch it. With this one I have no worries…but I’m still careful. THANKS…if you’re looking, go with this one.”
- Phil S.

“Read other reviews on this cover and finally decided to purchase it. Received item very quick! 3 days is very good for free shipping to Hawaii. When opening box, cover came with several bungee cords and a carrying bag. Cover fit perfectly over my 87 Honda Magna and just snug enough. Haven’t used it in the rain, but for a basic motorcycle cover it is a good buy. The cover also has a soft cotton lining on the upper area of cover and a couple of vents at the rear.”
- Shelakio

“Great cover!! My husband loves it. Great purchase—thank you!!”
- Marnie K.

EZ Pack Motorcycle Cover

“My man loves it. He says it’s pretty easy to put on and off. Yes, it was a good buy. Thank you so much.”
- Allyson Rascon

March 1, 2011

Protecting Your Motorcycle from Humidity in the Garage

For indoor storage in high humidity areas, a cotton motorcycle dust cover offers maximum breathability.

For indoor storage in high humidity areas, a cotton motorcycle dust cover offers maximum breathability.

One of the best ways to protect your motorcycle from humidity in the garage is to use a breathable motorcycle cover. Mold and mildew thrive in moist, humid conditions, and when humidity gets trapped under your motorcycle cover, it creates prime conditions for the growth of mold and mildew.

To prevent this, you need a cover with a good ventilation system that allows condensation to evaporate before it causes damage to your bike or cover.

Motorcycle covers vary in their level of breathability. The most breathable covers are cotton dust covers, which are designed for indoor storage only. Lightweight covers are not as breathable as cotton, but they provide protection from rain and moisture. Full storage covers that are waterproof must include a ventilation system in order to allow the cover to breathe.

The cover should be long enough to reach at least halfway down the wheels, but there should be a few inches, but there should be a few inches of space between the bottom of the cover and the ground. The extra space makes the cover more breathable.

After you wash your bike or ride in the rain, make sure the bike dries completely before installing the cover. For extra protection in areas with high humidity, you may want to consider using a desiccant to absorb moisture under the cover. If you store your cover in a humid garage, we recommend a cotton dust cover for maximum breathability.

January 4, 2011

Choosing a Motorcycle Cover

There are different types of motorcycle covers available. Which one you need depends on how you plan to use the cover.

What Type of Motorcycle Cover Do I Need?

A travel motorcycle cover packs down into a size that is slightly larger than your hand.

A travel motorcycle cover packs down into a size that is slightly larger than your hand.

For Travel:
A travel motorcycle cover is light enough to pack into a small bundle that takes up minimal space in your storage bags, yet it still provides full protection from rain and UV rays. It also makes your bike less conspicuous for thieves. Thread a lock through the grommets on the cover for even more peace of mind.

For Indoor/Outdoor Storage:
A fully lined motorcycle storage cover is thicker than a travel cover and provides more protection. The cover is lined with 100% cotton for a baby-soft interior that cradles your motorcycle’s paint and finish. It also comes with a heat-resistant lower panel that allows you to install the cover even before the bike cools down. Hot pipes and engine parts will not melt the cover material.

Because of the thickness of the lined storage cover, it packs down into a larger size than the travel cover, but if you have enough room in your saddlebags, the cover could be used on the road as well.

For Indoor Storage:
A motorcycle dust cover is the way to go when you only need to use the cover for indoor storage. This 100% cotton cover is completely breathable to protect your bike from moisture caused by humidity in the air. It keeps dust, dirt, and grime off your bike, keeping it in prime condition.

What Size Motorcycle Cover Do I Need?

If the cover doesn’t fit right, it won’t provide the level of protection that your bike needs. A motorcycle cover sizing guide will help you find the right size cover for your bike. It’s also a good idea to measure the length of your bike to make sure the cover will be long enough to fit.

If you have questions about what size motorcycle cover to get—including questions about whether the cover will fit over saddlebags, fairings, backrests, and any aftermarket accessories or modifications you’ve made—don’t hesitate to contact customer service. One call could save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

November 9, 2010

Gift Guide for Motorcycle, ATV, Snowmobile, and Boat Owners

Protective sport vehicle covers are a great gift idea for the motorcycle, ATV, snowmobile, and boat enthusiasts in your life. A quality cover will provide protection year round and keep the sport vehicle clean and dry.

Lined Motorcycle Cover

Lined Motorcycle Cover

Gift Ideas for Motorcyclists:

Gift Ideas for ATV Riders:

Trailerable ATV Cover

Trailerable ATV Cover

Gift Ideas for Snowmobilers:

Trailerable Boat Cover

Trailerable Boat Cover

Gift Ideas for Boat Owners and Fishermen:

  • Fish/Ski Boat Cover
  • Trailerable cover protection for V-hull runabouts, fish/ski, and inboard/outboard boats

  • Fishing Boat Cover
  • Trailerable cover protection for 14′ to 16′ fishing boats

  • Pontoon Cover
  • Trailerable cover protection for pontoons 17′ to 28′ long

  • Outboard Boat Motor Cover
  • Protect your investment from weather damage with a 2-25 HP outboard motor cover

  • Jet Ski Cover
  • For PWC / jet ski cover protection from the sun, wind, and rain

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