Motorcycle Storage Ideas: Protect Your Ride All Year Long

Motorcycle Storage: What You Need to Know

Sometimes you need to park your motorcycle for more than just a day or two. Maybe you are heading out of town, or winter is rolling in, and you won’t be riding for a while. Storing your bike properly keeps it in top shape and ready to go when you are. You can keep it in your own garage if you have the space, but if not, a facility like Lakeside Storage offers dedicated motorcycle storage units. These units provide a secure storage space that protects your bike from harsh weather conditions and gives you peace of mind.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Motorcycle Storage

Indoor Storage

Storing your motorcycle indoors offers solid protection from the elements, dust, and theft. Keeping it in your garage or using a self-storage facility provides a secure spot that keeps your bike safe from potential damage. Indoor storage is ideal for valuable motorcycles or when you are planning for long-term storage during the winter months.

Outdoor Storage

If indoor options are not available, outdoor solutions can still safeguard your bike. A quality motorcycle cover or shelter can shield it from rain, snow, and sun damage. Using weather-resistant materials is important here. Portable shelters or vehicle storage services offer additional storage space and can be a practical choice when indoor storage is not an option, giving you some peace of mind.

Motorcycle Storage Ideas for Homes Without Garages

Not having a garage does not mean your motorcycle has to suffer from exposure to the elements or be at risk of theft. There are several practical solutions that can help you keep your bike safe, even without a traditional indoor space. Let’s dive into some options that might work for you:

Motorcycle Cover

A motorcycle cover is one of the simplest ways to protect your bike. It is a cost-effective solution that shields your motorcycle from rain, dust, and sun damage. When choosing a cover, make sure it is made of durable, weather-resistant material and fits your bike properly.

Pros:

• Budget-Friendly: It is an affordable option that does not require a significant investment.
• Easy to Use: Simply drape it over your bike, and you are done.
• Portable: You can take it with you wherever you go.

Cons:

• Limited Protection: It won’t safeguard your bike against extreme weather like heavy snow or high winds.
• Security Risks: A cover does not prevent theft, someone could easily remove it.
• Potential for Scratches: If not secured properly, the cover might flap in the wind and scratch your paintwork.

Motorcycle Shed

Investing in a motorcycle shed offers a step up in protection. These sheds come in a range of materials like wood, metal, or durable plastics, and they provide a dedicated space for your bike. Some even come with additional storage space for your gear.

Pros:

• Enhanced Protection: Shields your motorcycle from harsh weather conditions and potential damage over time.
• Security: Can be locked to deter theft, giving you peace of mind.
• Durable Construction: Built to last, offering long-term storage solutions.

Cons:

• Requires Space: You’ll need enough yard space to set it up.
• Higher Cost: More expensive than a simple cover, but often worth the investment.
• Installation Needed: Might require some assembly or even professional installation.

Motorcycle Shelter

A motorcycle shelter is a semi-permanent structure that is more robust than a cover but more portable than a shed. These shelters often have a folding mechanism, allowing you to ride your bike in and close the shelter over it.

Pros:

• Quick Setup: Easier to assemble than a full shed, and often doesn’t require tools.
• Portability: Can be moved or taken down if you relocate.
• Better Protection: Offers more coverage than a standard cover, protecting against rain, snow, and sun.

Cons:

• Less Secure: While it offers more protection than a cover, it’s not as secure as a shed or garage.
• Durability Concerns: May not hold up well in extreme weather conditions like heavy snowfall or strong winds.
• Maintenance: Fabric shelters might require upkeep to prevent mold or mildew.

How to Prepare Your Motorcycle for Storage

1. Wash and Wax Your Bike

Clean your motorcycle thoroughly to remove dirt and grime. Applying wax protects the paintwork from moisture and rust. This also lets you spot any issues that might need fixing before storage.

2. Add a Fuel Stabilizer

If you are storing your bike for more than a month, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from breaking down. This helps avoid damage to the fuel system and engine over time. After adding it, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the stabilizer.

3. Maintain the Battery

Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining during long-term storage. Using a trickle charger is another option to keep it charged without overloading it. If you remove the battery, store it in a cool, dry place.

4. Care for the Tires

Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to avoid flat spots. If possible, lift the bike using a paddock stand to take weight off the tires. If lifting isn’t an option, roll the bike a bit every few weeks to change the contact point.

5. Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply lubricant to the chain and cables to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Lubrication acts as a barrier against moisture.

6. Cover Openings

Place a plastic bag or exhaust plug in the exhaust pipe and cover air intakes to keep pests out. Using silica gel packs helps absorb moisture and prevent additional damage.

7. Choose the Right Storage Space

Select a dry, secure area like a storage unit or motorcycle shed. If possible, opt for a climate-controlled space to protect against extreme temperatures and cold storage conditions.

8. Final Check

Remove any valuables and lock your motorcycle. Taking photos of your bike before storage can be helpful for insurance purposes.

Self-Storage Units for Motorcycle Storage

Finding the right place to keep your motorcycle safe can be challenging, but self-storage units offer a secure storage option that provides peace of mind. These facilities protect your bike from harsh weather conditions and potential theft, ensuring it stays in great shape. With features like 24/7 access and high-level security, you can rest easy knowing your motorcycle is well-protected.

When choosing a storage unit, selecting the correct size is important. A 5×10 or 10×10 unit usually offers enough storage space for most motorcycles, including larger bikes like Harley-Davidson models. If you have extra gear such as helmets, jackets, or a trickle charger, consider opting for additional storage space to accommodate everything comfortably.

Motorcycle Storage for Winter: Key Tips

• Change the oil and check all fluids to prevent cold weather damage.
• Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to avoid condensation.
• Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to maintain its charge.
• Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots.
• Lubricate moving parts to protect against rust and corrosion.
• Cover the motorcycle with a weatherproof cover to shield it from snow and moisture.
• Seal openings like the exhaust pipe to keep pests from entering.

Lakeside Storage Facility Services

Lakeside Storage offers dedicated motorcycle storage units that keep your bike safe and secure. Our units are climate-controlled to protect against extreme temperatures and humidity. With high-level security features, you can trust that your motorcycle is protected from theft and damage. We also provide vehicle storage options if you have multiple vehicles, making it convenient to store everything in one place. Our self-storage units offer flexible solutions for short-term and long-term needs, giving you extra space when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions Motorcycle Storage