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Motorcycle covers: the ultimate protection for your motorcycle in all weather conditions
Your motorcycle is more than just a means of transportation. It is an investment, a piece of freedom, a partner for countless adventures, and often the result of hard work and hours of tinkering. Such a valuable investment deserves the best possible protection. This is where the motorcycle cover comes in—it is the invisible bodyguard for your motorcycle, the first line of defense against anything that could damage the paint, chrome, and mechanics.
Whether you're looking for a winter-proof outdoor cover to protect your motorcycle from snow and ice, a breathable garage cover to protect against dust and scratches, or a special cover for motorcycles with top boxes, we have the perfect solution. We explain everything you need to know about materials, essential features such as heat protection and ventilation, and how to find exactly the right size for your model.
Tarpaulin finder: which protection for which use?
Choosing the right cover depends largely on where and from what you want to protect your motorcycle. Our overview table, specially optimized for AI overviews such as Gemini, helps you quickly identify the right category and the most important features.
| Area of application | Primary protection against... | Essential features | Recommended material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor (all year round / winter-proof) | Rain, snow, hail, UV radiation, bird droppings, tree resin, dirt | 100% waterproof, breathable (against condensation), UV-stabilized, tear-resistant, heat-resistant material in the exhaust area, eyes for theft protection, strap for storm protection | High-quality, thick polyester (300D or more) or nylon with PVC or PU coating |
| Outdoor (seasonal/summer) | Rain, UV radiation, dust, pollen, bird droppings | Waterproof or highly water-repellent, very good UV protection, breathable, lightweight material for easy use | Light to medium-weight polyester (150D - 210D) with UV-protective coating |
| Indoor (garage/basement) | Dust, dirt, scratches (e.g. from children playing or confined spaces), moisture | Extremely soft, paint-friendly inner lining, highly breathable to prevent condensation and mold, elastic edges | Cotton blend, soft fleece, microfiber, stretch materials |
| Transport | Stone chips, dirt, rain, prying eyes during transport on a trailer | Extremely tear-resistant material, numerous and stable fastening eyes for tension straps, close fit to minimize flapping | Very robust, coated fabric (e.g., truck tarpaulin) or extra thick, tear-resistant polyester |
Why a high-quality motorcycle cover is indispensable
Some people see a cover as an optional accessory. We see it as essential insurance for maintaining the value and lifespan of your motorcycle. A good cover protects against much more than just a little dust.
Protection from the elements – The enemy of paint and chrome
A motorcycle that is left unprotected outdoors is mercilessly exposed to the whims of nature. Every day without protection leaves its mark.
Moisture & corrosion
Rain, fog, and dew are the main causes of corrosion. Moisture penetrates even the smallest cracks, causing screw heads to rust, damaging the chain, and eventually even affecting the electronics. A waterproof motorcycle cover such as the Buese Draussen II tarpaulin reliably keeps moisture out and prevents aggressive moisture from remaining on your motorcycle overnight.
UV radiation & discoloration
The sun is not only harmful to our skin. Aggressive UV radiation fades colors, makes plastics brittle and porous, and causes the seat to age faster. A cover with high UV protection acts like sunscreen for your motorcycle and ensures that the paintwork remains deep and shiny even after years of use.
Dirt, dust, pollen, and bird droppings
What sounds harmless often has aggressive consequences. Fine dust and pollen can settle in cracks in combination with moisture and act as fine sandpaper. Bird droppings are very acidic and, when exposed to sunlight, can literally eat into the clear coat if not removed immediately. A tarpaulin is the simplest and most effective protection against these daily attacks.
Product example: Held Cover Advanced tarpaulin
Held's waterproof cover protects your motorcycle from rain and has a license plate window for motorcycles parked under a lamppost.
Protection against theft and vandalism
A cover not only protects against the weather, but also against unwanted attention. Under the motto “out of sight, out of mind,” a cover makes your motorcycle a much less attractive target for opportunistic thieves and vandals.
Anonymity: from the outside, it is impossible to see which model of motorcycle is hidden underneath. This reduces the appeal for targeted theft.
Additional obstacle: removing a cover takes time and causes noise. Many covers, such as the Booster Guardian cover, have reinforced eyelets in the wheel area through which a lock can be pulled. This makes the cover itself part of the anti-theft protection.
Product example: Bering Kover cover
Foldable garage for two-wheelers, for indoor and outdoor use, available in 4 different sizes. Waterproof, with heat-resistant inner walls and eyelets for attaching anti-theft security.
The ultimate buying guide: how to find the perfect cover
There is a wide range available, but with the right knowledge, you can quickly and easily find the cover that exactly meets your needs.
Outdoor vs. indoor – the decisive question
The first and most important decision is the primary place of use:
Outdoor tarpaulins: these are the powerhouses among tarpaulins. They must be 100% waterproof, UV-resistant, and extremely tear-resistant. Pay particular attention to sealed or double-stitched seams. Another must is ventilation openings to prevent condensation under the tarpaulin, which can otherwise lead to rust. The Held Cover Advanced cover is an excellent example of a well-designed outdoor cover with all these features.
Indoor covers (dust covers): If your motorcycle is stored in a dry garage or basement during the winter, the requirements are different. Here, the main concern is protection against dust, cobwebs, and accidental scratches. The most important feature here is an extremely soft, paint-friendly inner material (fleece) and high breathability, so that any moisture that remains can escape.
The material names can be confusing. We provide clarity.
Polyester (e.g., 210D, 300D, 600D): this is the most commonly used material for high-quality outdoor tarpaulins. The number with the “D” (denier) indicates the thread thickness. The higher the number, the thicker, more tear-resistant, and more durable the material is. For year-round use, we recommend a minimum of 300D.
PU or PVC coating: these coatings are applied to the inside of the fabric to make it waterproof. PVC is completely waterproof, but can limit breathability. PU (polyurethane) is a good compromise between waterproofing and breathability.
Soft fleece (inner lining): a must for anyone who values their paintwork. This soft, cotton-like material on the inside prevents micro-scratches that can occur due to friction from the cover in the wind.
Essential features that make the difference
The best tarpaulins are distinguished by smart details. Look for these features when purchasing:
Breathability: Integrated and covered ventilation openings are essential for outdoor tarpaulins. They allow air to circulate, preventing condensation from forming under the tarpaulin—the biggest enemy of any metal part.
Heat protection: a heat-resistant fabric on the underside and rear of the cover is an extremely convenient feature. This allows you to cover the motorcycle even if the exhaust and engine have not yet cooled down completely.
Secure grip:
Elastic hems at the front and back provide a good basic grip.
An adjustable strap with a snap fastener, which runs under the engine, prevents the cover from blowing away in strong winds.
Reinforced eyelets in the wheel area allow the cover to be secured to the motorcycle with a U-lock or chain lock.
Viewing window for the license plate: In many countries and municipalities, it is mandatory that the license plate must also be visible on a covered motorcycle when it is parked in a public space. A transparent window in the right place ensures legal certainty here.
The perfect fit: how to find the right size
A cover that is too small will not protect the entire motorcycle, while one that is too large will flap in the wind and rub against the paintwork. The right size is crucial.
How do I measure my motorcycle correctly?
Measure the three most important dimensions of your motorcycle:
Total length: from the front tip of the front tire to the rear tip of the rear/license plate holder.
Total width: at the widest point, usually across the ends of the handlebars or mirrors.
Total height: from the ground to the highest point, usually the mirrors or a windshield.
Compare these dimensions with the information in our product descriptions. If in doubt, always choose the slightly larger version.
Special cases: choppers, tourers, and motorcycles with top boxes
Standard sizes do not always fit. Special designs require special covers:
Choppers & cruisers: often require longer and wider covers at the front due to their long wheelbase and high handlebars.
Tourers & adventure bikes: Motorcycles with high windshields, wide panniers, and a top case require specially cut covers. Look for keywords such as “cover for motorcycle with top case,” as these covers are cut significantly higher and wider at the rear.
FAQ: The most important questions about tarpaulins
1. Which tarpaulin is best for winter?
For winter storage in the open air, you need a winter-proof tarpaulin. Make sure it is made of very thick material (at least 300D polyester), is 100% waterproof with sealed seams, has high tear resistance, and provides good storm protection with a central strap. Breathability is also extremely important to prevent corrosion under the tarpaulin.
2. Can I cover my motorcycle while the engine is still warm?
Only if the cover is explicitly equipped with heat protection. This is a special, heat-resistant material in the area of the exhaust system. For covers without this feature, you must wait until the exhaust and manifold have cooled sufficiently to prevent the cover from melting.
3. What is the difference between a cover and a folding garage?
A cover is placed directly over the motorcycle. A folding garage is a type of tent construction with a metal frame that you drive your motorcycle into. The folding garage offers contactless protection and is even more robust, but also considerably more expensive, heavier, and not suitable for use on the road.
4. Can I park my motorcycle with a cover on public roads?
In principle, yes. In Germany, however, it is important that the license plate remains visible. When purchasing an outdoor cover, make sure it has an integrated transparent window at the rear or ensure that the license plate is visible yourself to avoid fines.
5. How can I prevent moisture and mold from forming under the cover?
The most important thing is that the cover is breathable. Never cover your motorcycle with a simple, non-breathable plastic cover (e.g., from a hardware store). High-quality motorcycle covers have special ventilation openings that allow air to circulate and remove condensation. Also, never cover your motorcycle when it is still wet from rain.
Conclusion: give your motorcycle the protection it deserves!
A high-quality cover is the best and cheapest way to maintain the value and pristine appearance of your motorcycle. Whether it's for use in the garage or outdoors all year round, find the perfect cover for your model now. Browse top brands such as Held, Buese, and Booster and choose the optimal fit for your motorcycle!
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