Protecting your motorcycle from the elements is crucial for maintaining its condition and extending its lifespan. With countless options available on the market, selecting the right motorcycle cover can be overwhelming. At kammann-automobile.de, motorcycle enthusiasts understand that proper protection requires careful consideration of several factors. This guide will walk you through the five essential criteria to evaluate when purchasing a reliable motorcycle cover.
Material quality and durability
The foundation of any effective motorcycle cover lies in its construction materials. A high-quality cover can mean the difference between a bike that maintains its showroom shine and one that succumbs to environmental damage prematurely.
Understanding different cover materials
Most premium motorcycle covers are crafted from polyester fabric, with varying densities measured in denier. The higher the denier count, the more robust the material. Top-tier covers typically feature 300 denier polyester or higher, offering superior tear resistance while remaining lightweight enough for easy handling. Some manufacturers incorporate additional protective layers or treatments to enhance durability. Oxford, a respected name in the industry, uses specially formulated fabrics in their Stormex line that combine strength with weather resistance.
Testing longevity and tear resistance
Quality covers undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand daily use over extended periods. Premium brands like Nelson-Rigg and Dowco Powersports offer lifetime warranties on their products, reflecting confidence in their durability. Budget-friendly options from manufacturers like Classic Accessories might last 2-3 seasons, while high-end covers from COVERMAX can protect your motorcycle for 5-7 years or more. When assessing durability, examine the stitching quality and reinforcement at stress points where the cover frequently contacts the motorcycle.
Weather protection capabilities
The primary purpose of a motorcycle cover is to shield your bike from environmental threats. Different weather conditions require specific protective features to ensure comprehensive defense throughout the year.
Waterproof vs water-resistant features
A truly waterproof cover prevents moisture penetration even during heavy downpours, whereas water-resistant options merely delay water infiltration. Look for covers with taped and sealed seams that prevent water from seeping through stitching points. The Oxford Stormex, rated 4.8/5 from over 1000 reviews and recommended by RiDE magazine, exemplifies excellent waterproofing at a reasonable price point of around £80. For those seeking affordable protection, the Oxford Aquatex offers impressive water resistance at approximately £25, earning it a RiDE magazine Best Buy recommendation.
Uv and heat shield properties
Sun exposure can fade paintwork and degrade plastic components over time. Quality covers incorporate UV inhibitors that prevent solar radiation from damaging your motorcycle. The Nelson Rigg Defender Extreme Motorcycle Cover, priced at around £99, offers exceptional UV protection along with complete waterproofing thanks to its specialized UltraMax Fabric. For summer storage, covers with heat-reflective properties provide additional protection by reducing temperature buildup beneath the cover, preventing potential damage to sensitive components.
Size and fit considerations
A properly fitted cover not only looks better but also provides superior protection by preventing wind damage and water pooling. Selecting the appropriate size requires careful measurement and consideration of your specific motorcycle type.
Measuring your motorcycle correctly
Before purchasing a cover, measure your motorcycle length, width, and height. Include any accessories such as windscreens, saddlebags, or luggage racks in your measurements. Different motorcycle styles require specific cover shapes – sport bikes need a more streamlined profile compared to touring bikes with their wider fairings and windshields. The R&G Adventure cover, designed specifically for larger adventure bikes, demonstrates how specialized sizing can provide better protection for specific motorcycle types.
Adjustable elements for custom fitting
Even with correct measurements, adjustable features ensure a snug fit around your motorcycle. Look for covers with elastic hems that grip the bottom of the bike, preventing wind from getting underneath and potentially causing the cover to blow off. Tie-down straps further secure the cover during windy conditions. Some premium options like the Speedmetal Stretch Motorcycle Cover utilize stretchy polyester that conforms to your bike shape, providing a custom-like fit without the custom price tag.
Ease of Use and Storage Features
A motorcycle cover that is difficult to install or store will likely see less use, negating its protective benefits. User-friendly features encourage consistent use, maximizing protection for your investment.
Quick installation and removal systems
The best covers balance security with convenience. Features like the Dowco Guardian Weatherall Plus EZ Zip system allow easy access to your motorcycle without completely removing the cover. This proves particularly useful for riders who need frequent access but want to maintain protection between rides. For touring riders, covers that install quickly after a long journey encourage use even when fatigue might otherwise lead to skipping this protective step.
Compact folding and storage solutions
When not in use, your cover should store compactly without excessive bulk. Many quality covers include compression bags that reduce storage footprint significantly. Polyester covers generally fold down more compactly than heavier materials, making them ideal for touring riders with limited storage space. The BikeIt Heavy Duty Rain Cover combines substantial protection with reasonable portability at a budget-friendly price point of around £30, making it an excellent option for riders who need to carry their cover with them.
Warranty and customer support
The manufacturer commitment to their product speaks volumes about its expected performance and longevity. Strong warranty terms often correlate with product quality and durability.
Understanding warranty terms
Premium manufacturers like Nelson-Rigg and Dowco Powersports back their covers with lifetime warranties, demonstrating confidence in their products. Mid-range options such as Tourmaster typically offer 2-year limited warranties. When evaluating warranties, examine what specifically is covered – some only protect against manufacturing defects while others include coverage for material degradation over time. The terms and conditions may also specify proper care requirements to maintain warranty validity.
Evaluating manufacturer reputation and service
Research customer experiences with warranty claims before committing to a purchase. Established UK motorcycle retailers like SportsBikeShop provide valuable customer reviews that offer insights into both product performance and manufacturer service quality. Oxford, with its long-standing presence in the UK motorcycle accessory market, has built a reputation for responsive customer service and straightforward warranty processing. This reliability factor often justifies the slightly higher investment in their premium Protext cover range, priced between £114 and £142.
Investing in a quality motorcycle cover represents a small fraction of your overall motorcycle expenditure while providing significant protection for your valuable machine. By carefully evaluating these five key criteria, you can select a cover that offers the perfect balance of protection, convenience, and longevity for your specific motorcycle and storage situation.