Topic: Motorcycle Covers

[earth tones]

In a couple days I will be moving into a new apartment, where there is no covered storage for my two Honda bikes.  I have been debating whether to store them outside, with covers, or to try and find inside storage somewhere nearby the house.  I live in Austin TX, so most of the year is good riding weather, and that means riding everyday.  Storing the bike at a distance from my living space is not going to be a good thing for riding everyday, so I am leaning towards storing them outside with bike covers.  This is a tough decision.  Is there anybody here who has also had to keep their bikes outdoors?  Can you recommend a reputable all-weather bike cover that can be used in an attempt to protect the bike as best as is possible in this sort of scenario?

I appreciate the advice.

[Johnie]

I know a lot of us use the Dowco. It is made in the USA (WI) and they have a lifetime warranty. I know some guys that had a warranty issue and they replaced it no questions asked. I have had a Dowco on my Wing for 9 years and the stitching is still good. I also have 4 other Dowco covers on my 750's and no problems. I use mine mainly for dust as my bikes are in the garage. If you look at the pic in the back left and right you can see 2 of the Dowco covers. They have the "no melt" lower panels near the exhausts in case you put them on hot.

[mick750F]

   I have a Nelson Rigg Defender 2000... http://www.newenoughhp.com/accessories/covers/nelson_rigg/falcon_defender_2000_motorcycle_cover.html

   Like Dowco it has a lifetime warranty. I've had it 6 years now with no problems except some fading from the sun. It has heat panels and grommets so you can lock it to the bike, I padlock it through the front wheel. Mine is outside about half the year.

Mike

[nobody]

Get a cover, if you live in Texas you shouldn't see weather that would really require storage. Dowco makes quality covers.

[earth tones]

The Dowco's look like a good option.  Thanks for the suggestion.  To those that use the Dowco covers, would I need a medium or large for a CB750?

Thanks again.

[Johnie]

The Dowco's look like a good option.  Thanks for the suggestion.  To those that use the Dowco covers, would I need a medium or large for a CB750?

Thanks again.

The large will fit. I put an extra large on one of my 750's and it hangs to the ground, but keeps more of the dirt off it. I still think I like the fit of the large better, but check the Dowco listings they have a chart.

[IHWillys]

Anyone here use the Cycle Shell or similar type?  That's what I am particularly interested in for an outdoor cover.  Provided you have a spot, either parking or porch, to leave the shell when the bike's not in it.

Example:
http://www.webbikeworld.com/r3/motorcycle-garage/

Ken