{"id":38410,"date":"2024-11-06T13:16:48","date_gmt":"2024-11-06T12:16:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mycover-protection.com\/?p=38410"},"modified":"2024-11-06T13:16:49","modified_gmt":"2024-11-06T12:16:49","slug":"what-you-really-need-to-know-before-buying-an-outdoor-motorcycle-cover","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mycover-protection.com\/en\/magazin\/what-you-really-need-to-know-before-buying-an-outdoor-motorcycle-cover\/","title":{"rendered":"What you really need to know before buying an outdoor Motorcycle cover"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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As a biker, you always think about your beloved motorcycle. Especially when the motorcycle is permanently outside, it is exposed to the weather without any protection. Without additional protection, the consequences are not long in coming:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

First the chain and the brake discs rust, then rust develops on your motorcycle fork, at the same time the paint fades due to UV radiation and the seals or dust protection caps on the brakes and forks leak more quickly. Last but not least, bird droppings will do the rest to your paintwork…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The loss<\/strong> in value compared to a motorcycle in top condition can quickly amount to over 50%!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good Motorcycle cover helps here!<\/strong> But the market is full of cheap covers that break down after just a few months and all claim to be “premium”.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since we also had to make this experience, we will show you what really matters when it comes to a good Motorcycle cover and how you can avoid<\/strong> unnecessary repairs and expensive optical defects<\/strong> on your motorcycle!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The MYCOVER\u00ae team<\/a> explains! <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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Table of Contents<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Why do I need a Motorcycle cover?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Weather and weather influences that damage your motorcycle – without additional protection – in the long term<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Visual protection against theft: Your motorcycle without cover is visible to everyone!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  4. What should I look out for when buying a Motorcycle cover?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  5. The features and functions that a Motorcycle cover must have!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  6. The advantages and disadvantages of Motorcycle covers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  7. We clarify: facts instead of fake news<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  8. Cleaning the Motorcycle cover<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  9. We clarify: What size motorcycle tarpaulin do I need?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  10. Time for questions and comments<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
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    Why do I need a Motorcycle cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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    Rain, snow, ice, dirt and UV rays… the (new) motorcycle will face tough times if it is not given additional protection. In the following chapter we will look at the most common motorcycle problems and their causes. Often these are avoidable problems or repairs, which unfortunately can sometimes be very expensive.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    Do I need a Motorcycle cover when parking outside?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    If you intend to park your motorcycle outside regularly and, for example, leave it outside for the winter, a Motorcycle cover is essential. If you do without a Motorcycle cover when winterizing, you risk a high loss in value of the motorcycle. If the condition and resale value are important to you, you should cover and protect your motorcycle with a good Motorcycle cover! <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Why exactly? You can find out more in the following chapters of our detailed motorcycle guide covers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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    But I have a carport, do I also need a Motorcycle cover?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Even under a carport, your motorcycle is exposed to morning dew, dirt, ice and snow and rain due to side winds. Animals such as cats, martens or birds (and their legacies) also like to settle on your paintwork or the seat with their sharp claws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Of course we have a heart for animals, but when an animal is frightened and “panically” digs its claws into the seat or the paintwork of your motorcycle, it not only hurts the biker’s heart, but also the wallet…<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    I have a garage, so I don’t really need one Motorcycle cover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Whether in a normal garage or underground garage: dirt, dust and soot like to settle on the motorcycle with their fine particles, which will cause unsightly scratches the next time you wipe it over – even if you only see this in the sun! An animal likes to get lost in such a “safe” place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Bikers also regularly tell us that unauthorized persons simply sit on the motorcycle and leave a few scratches on the paintwork (from handbags, belt buckles, keys, etc.) as a thank you. Or you come back from shopping and the child greets the motorcycle with a swinging open car door.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Tip<\/strong>: You don’t always have to be to blame for damage! If you act proactively here, you can save yourself a lot of money, time and trouble and enjoy more tours with your friends!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    Weather and atmospheric influences that damage your motorcycle in the long term without additional protection<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    More and more extreme weather and weather conditions are a real challenge for the motorcycle. But what exactly harms the motorcycle? And what should you pay particular attention to?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    humidity in general<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Since modern motorcycles no longer work without their electronics, electronic problems occur here not only in the long term, but sometimes also in the short term. Moisture easily creeps into all openings and cracks, which is why additional protection is necessary here. A good example here is a motorcycle manufacturer from Germany, which regularly has problems with the start button due to moisture, which unfortunately often makes the proud owners look stupid.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    rain and acid rain<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Due to water and remaining moisture on and in the motorcycle, the components rust much faster. Regularly drying, cleaning (especially after a rain shower) and maintaining your motorcycle can prevent many problems such as rust. But honestly: Who really dries and cleans their motorcycle regularly? Especially since there are on average \u2248130 rainy days a year in Germany.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    snow and frost<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    When snow melts or rain freezes, the moisture creeps into all openings and cracks and can then freeze again. This is a significant burden, especially for the electronic components. Freezing water expands and in the worst case, components can break and be literally “blown up”. A good example of this is the previously chromed engine or transmission cover, where the chrome often flakes off quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For more winter tips, take a look at our article on how to winterize your motorcycle <\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Tip<\/strong>: The less moisture gets on your bike, the fewer problems you will have!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    hail<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Depending on the region, it hails up to 5 times a year on average. Hailstones fall from the sky at a speed of 20 to 30 m\/s and can be up to 5 cm in diameter. If such hailstones hit the tank, the windscreen, the display or other painted parts unprotected, the motorcycle can be badly dented and damaged.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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    Sun & UV radiation: The paint<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    UV radiation attacks the paint over time. One speaks of so-called chalking, whereby the binder dissolves in the paint. As a result, the paint becomes matt and clearly loses its radiance. With very strong UV and solar radiation, this can stress the paintwork so much that it cracks and a complete repainting is necessary.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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    Plastic and rubber components on your motorcycle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    These contain plasticizers, which are destroyed by UV radiation. The material not only fades quickly, but also becomes brittle and porous, and the component then has to be replaced. If you don’t take this seriously with safety-relevant components, you will hopefully not be taught a lesson!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    That is why there is also a note for (motorcycle) tires that not only the age and profile, but also the condition of the rubber is relevant to the T\u00dcV. Let the housse suffer rather than the safety-relevant components on your motorcycle!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    Dirt, grime, pollen and pebbles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    If your motorcycle is parked on the street, in a carport or garage without Motorcycle cover, you will have to clean it much more often. Unfortunately, the dirt and grime that is thrown up in the area sticks to the motorcycle far too quickly and can cause expensive scratches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    When parking outdoors, you not only have to watch out for falling branches, acorns and chestnuts, but also for the particularly stubborn pollen dust, which gets stuck on your motorcycle suit or clothes. Animal excrement is particularly aggressive and can, for example, permanently damage the paintwork and must therefore be removed from the motorcycle immediately.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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    Damage caused by careless road users<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Cars driving by, children playing or the “final boss” for your paintwork: cleaning and gritting vehicles from the city cleaning department. Your motorcycle is not only exposed to the weather, but also to the careless actions of our fellow human beings.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Strong wind and small parts flying around<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    We see in Germany and all over the world that wind and storms are becoming more and more violent and frequent. It is all the more important that your motorcycle is well covered. Whether small twigs, hard chestnuts or acorns: In strong winds at high speeds, these are thrown through the air and can severely damage the paintwork, the sheet metal or the plastic components of your motorcycle. Therefore, make sure that housse is sufficiently thick to absorb such impacts.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    \"Motorcycle<\/figure>\n\n

    Visual protection against theft: Your motorcycle without cover is visible to everyone!<\/h2>\n\n

    There are many prying eyes, and for some people, looking at your motorcycle inspires lust and ill intentions. Whether it’s the beloved Akrapovic exhaust system, the Rizoma mirrors or the long-awaited carbon attachments. Theft of motorcycles and motorcycle accessories is still at a high level of over 20,000 registered thefts per year.<\/p>\n\n

    If you want to know more about this topic, we recommend you take a look at our article on theft protection<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n

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    Tip<\/strong>: In addition to a tear-proof and sturdy Motorcycle cover, use a robust lock for your motorcycle. This way, the thief cannot see what kind of motorcycle is hidden under the cover and the more obstacles he encounters – which cost time and cause noise – the less likely it is that your motorcycle will be stolen. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

    Would you like to know which motorcycle lock is right for you?<\/p>\n\n

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    Read the motorcycle lock advisor<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n
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    \"Motorcycle<\/figure>\n\n
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    What should I look out for when buying a Motorcycle cover?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    Your own housse should also protect the motorcycle in the long term and not show its first defects after just a few months. The longevity of a Motorcycle cover is largely determined by the right choice of material and the quality of workmanship.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    What material should a Motorcycle cover be made of?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    The choice is great! There are a variety of different materials on the market that are suitable for various areas of application: polyester, polyamide, polyethylene, other microfibers and many more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For permanent outdoor protection, polyester has emerged as THE synthetic fiber with the best properties. It is tear-resistant and UV-resistant than polyamide. Only absorbs very little moisture and can dry more quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    In addition, polyester is very durable and breathable, which makes this material particularly suitable for outdoor use. An important property is high UV resistance, so that the material is not degraded and damaged by UV rays (a common problem with cheap Motorcycle covers).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Please note:<\/strong> there are also big differences in the quality of polyester! If cheap raw materials are used for the production of the synthetic fibers, for example impure granules or granules stretched with cheaper material, this can significantly impair the properties and, above all, the longevity.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    How the producers of covers trick their customers to save costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    In order to save costs, manufacturers in the lower price segment usually only re-dye the fibers on the surface instead of dyeing the entire fiber. If the fibers are not dyed through, the color will fade much faster and an initially dark black will quickly turn pale and grey!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Unfortunately, as a layman, it is difficult to separate \u201cthe wheat from the chaff\u201d. As a customer, you have to rely on the manufacturer. Before we founded MYCOVER\u00ae, we had unfortunately been deceived and disappointed too often by well-known brands and manufacturers – hopefully only through their ignorance!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    The processing of a Motorcycle cover: Only quality really protects!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    What makes a housse durable in the long term are the seams with which the fabric panels are sewn together. Manufacturers who offer their covers at competitive prices have to save on production: Thin threads are used for the seams, only single stitching is used (instead of a sturdy double seam) and the time available for sewing is often so short due to time and cost pressure that mistakes are often made during processing and the work is not done properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The result is tearing seams and leaks after a short time Motorcycle covers.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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    \"Motorcycle<\/figure>\n\n
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    The features and functions that a Motorcycle cover must have!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    It’s like a mobile phone: the technology is constantly improving, the devices are becoming more robust and yet over 90% of mobile phone owners use an additional protective cover. This should not only look good, but above all protect the mobile phone from damage. The same should of course also apply to the motorcycle and Motorcycle cover!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The following features and functions eliminate the most common causes of depreciation, unnecessary repairs and costs.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n

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    1. Weatherproof and breathable<\/strong>: The right material for your Motorcycle cover<\/a> should not only be waterproof, but also breathable. Due to high humidity, e.g. when it rains, moisture always gets under the housse. Breathable materials have a clear advantage over PE covers, for example, so that this can escape as quickly as possible and air can be exchanged. \"Premium<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. UV protection<\/strong>: To protect your motorcycle, the paintwork and the add-on parts from UV rays, a good housse should be impermeable to UV rays. Make sure, however, that the material itself is also resistant to UV radiation. This is usually not the case with cheap motorcycle covers, which means that the motorcycle is protected from UV radiation in the short term, but the material usually shows the first signs of wear after just a few months: The color fades, the material loses elasticity and becomes brittle before it finally cracks.\"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Cold and heat-resistant<\/strong>: Protection against heat: On the hottest summer days of the year, surfaces can get up to 80\u00b0C due to direct sunlight. The material of a resilient Motorcycle cover must of course be able to withstand this. Bikers have often told us about covers melting in the sun. You can really do without this expense and time! It is not for nothing that some manufacturers even talk about melting covers on headlights and point out to customers in the operating instructions that a housse should not be pulled over a hot headlight.\"This<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    4. Durable material:<\/strong> Whether in strong winds, as additional protection against theft or as scratch and dent protection. The thicker and more durable the material of the housse, the more protection it offers. We recommend a durable 300 denier material, often abbreviated to “300D”. Since this material is significantly more expensive than e.g. 190D or 210D \u2013 but also significantly more resistant \u2013 the wheat is separated from the chaff here. But again we have to mention again that 300D is not equal to 300D! As already mentioned in the material section, the quality of the processed raw materials is decisive here.\"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    5. License plate or viewing window<\/strong>: According to \u00a7 10 ABS. 2 GZV and \u00a7 23 para. 1 StVO, a viewing window is mandatory in Germany and can be admonished in the event of non-compliance. So there is a risk of a ticket or, in the worst case, your motorcycle will even be towed away. Just make sure there is a license plate window and save the money for a tour with your friends!\"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    6. Dirt-repellent and coated<\/strong>: An additional coating on the outer material significantly increases the durability of a Motorcycle cover. A repellent and water-resistant nano coating not only allows raindrops to run off better, but also prevents the material on the outside from absorbing water. Our tip:<\/strong> The effectiveness of coatings diminishes over time. We therefore recommend renewing the coating with an impregnation spray<\/a> at least once a year.\"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    7. Visibility at night: <\/strong>Motorcycle tarpaulins are often black or dark. Bright reflectors should be visible from every angle (all four sides) so that your motorcycle is clearly visible to cars parking out and other road users at dusk and at night. If there is only a reflective strip on two sides of the housse, for example, the chance of being seen by other road users is only 50:50! Here it is also advisable to pay attention to the latest technologies and to have extra bright reflective stripes on your housse. (UHRS – Ultra High Reflection Stripes) \"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    8. Good fit elastic hems<\/strong>: For an optimum fit and to reduce frictional forces on the painted components, a Motorcycle cover should – in addition to the correct size – have an elastic hem at the bottom. This allows the material to adapt to the individual design of your motorcycle. This not only looks better, but also prevents loud flapping in the wind.\"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    9. Securing straps<\/strong>: To ensure that the housse remains stable on the motorcycle in strong winds and cannot be blown away by the wind, additional fastening options must be available, e.g. two quick-release straps. These not only secure your housse, but also ensure a better fit and less friction on the sensitive paintwork and other components. They also prevent the housse from fluffing up in strong winds and thus significantly reduce the risk of tipping over. \"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    10. Heat protection material<\/strong>: After a “sporty” ride on your motorcycle, the manifold can get over 800\u00b0C and a muffler over 250\u00b0C hot. Before you can cover your motorcycle, they must first cool down sufficiently so that neither the housse nor the motorcycle is damaged by the heat. If there is residual heat, an additional heat protection material on the inside can help here, which can reduce the risk of heat damage (usually up to 200\u00b0C). Our tip:<\/strong> If you can touch the engine and exhaust with your hand, then your motorcycle can be safely covered with a Motorcycle cover. \"\"\/<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    11. Theft protection<\/strong>: The more resistance there is for a thief, the less likely it is that your motorcycle will be stolen. If the housse offers the option of using a motorcycle lock from e.g. ABUS<\/a> through additional openings, this not only makes the theft of the motorcycle more difficult, but also the theft of the housse itself. \"\"\/<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n
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      The advantages and disadvantages of Motorcycle covers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      Now that we have dealt in detail with the individual topics, areas and questions when buying a Motorcycle cover, we would like to summarize the most important key points here.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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      Advantages of a Motorcycle cover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n