Storing your bikes, whether in a garage, shed, or on a car rack during a trip, exposes them to dust, moisture, UV rays, and potential scratches. A high-quality car cover for bikes is an essential investment to shield your valuable equipment from the elements and keep it in pristine condition. This protection helps prevent rust, fading, and mechanical issues, ultimately extending the life of your bicycles.
Choosing the right cover depends on your specific needs—be it for stationary outdoor storage, transport on a hitch rack, or fitting multiple bikes. With various materials, sizes, and features available, it can be challenging to find the perfect match. Our roundup simplifies this process by highlighting the best car covers for bikes in storage, detailing their key benefits and construction to help you make an informed decision.
The Best Car Covers for Bike Storage
- MENKOW 2024 Upgraded 2XL Large Outdoor Waterproof Bicycle Cover
- Favoto Bike Cover for Transport 2 Bikes – 600D Thicken Oxford
- Favoto Bike Cover Waterproof Outdoor for 1 or 2 Bikes
- Topcrown Bike Cover Waterproof Outdoor Storage for 2 Bikes
- Indeed BUY Bike Cover for 1, 2 or 3 Bikes 420D Heavy Duty
- Hicover 600D Travel Bike Covers for 2 Bikes on Rear Bike Rack
- IC ICLOVER Bike Cover for Transport on Rack, 600D Outdoor Storage
- Szblnsm Bike Cover for 1, 2 or 3 Bikes Outdoor 420D Heavy Duty
- ROWYEET Motorcycle Cover Waterproof Outdoor Storage with Lock-Holes
- Classic Accessories OverDrive PolyPro 1 Motorcycle Cover
MENKOW 2024 Upgraded 2XL Large Outdoor Waterproof Bicycle Cover
This 2024 upgraded cover from MENKOW is built for all-weather protection, constructed from durable 210D oxford fabric. It efficiently guards your bikes against rain, dust, heat, and tree sap, offering comprehensive top-to-bottom coverage. Its generous 2XL dimensions make it spacious enough to cover two or three bicycles with wheel sizes up to 29 inches.
A standout feature is the inclusion of two sturdy anti-theft lock holes. This allows you to conveniently secure your bikes with a lock even while they are covered, providing an extra layer of security for outdoor storage. It is a versatile solution suitable for most mountain, city, and road bikes.
Favoto Bike Cover for Transport 2 Bikes – 600D Thicken Oxford
Specifically designed for transport, the Favoto cover features a unique soft cotton interior lining. This layer acts as a cushion, shielding your bike’s finish from scratches and abrasions caused by friction during travel. This thoughtful design sets it apart from standard covers that might lack this protective buffer.
Built from heavy-duty 600D tear-resistant Oxford fabric with double-stitched seams, this cover is made to withstand the rigors of the road. It includes nine windproof buckles and adjustable drawstrings to ensure a secure and stable fit on your rear bike rack, even at highway speeds. It is important to verify the dimensions of your bikes on the rack before purchase for a perfect fit.
Favoto Bike Cover Waterproof Outdoor for 1 or 2 Bikes
This Favoto cover offers robust triple-layer protection for stationary outdoor storage. The fabric combines a waterproof coating, high-density Oxford material, and a UV protection coating to create a barrier against water pressure up to 3000mmH₂O. It reliably protects against rain, snow, dust, leaves, and bird droppings.
Wind resistance is a key focus here. The cover includes an elastic band at the bottom for a snug fit and a central windproof buckle that can be tightened to prevent the cover from being blown away in gusty conditions. Its universal size can accommodate one 29-inch bike or two 26-inch bicycles.
Topcrown Bike Cover Waterproof Outdoor Storage for 2 Bikes
The Topcrown cover utilizes a 210D fabric enhanced with three core technologies: a hydrophobic coating, PU waterproofing, and anti-UV treatment. This multi-layered approach provides excellent protection while remaining lightweight, striking a great balance between sturdiness and ease of handling.
Attention to detail is evident in its windproof design. It features an elastic band at the bottom complemented by front and rear wheel buckles for a secure fit. Topcrown also uses a woven nylon lock hole, which is gentler on your bike’s paint compared to metal alternatives that could cause scratches.
Indeed BUY Bike Cover for 1, 2 or 3 Bikes 420D Heavy Duty
Constructed from 420D heavy-duty material, this cover from Indeed BUY is built for all-season, all-weather protection. It features a PU coating to effectively block rain, UV rays, wind, snow, and other environmental pollutants, ensuring your bike remains protected year-round.
Staying secure in high winds is a priority. The cover includes elasticated hems at the front, middle, and back, along with a central buckle to keep it firmly in place. It also has two lock-holes for anti-theft security, allowing you to lock your bike while it is covered.
Hicover 600D Travel Bike Covers for 2 Bikes on Rear Bike Rack
The Hicover is a premium transport solution made from high-density 600D Oxford fabric with a reinforced silvery coating. This construction provides superior waterproofing and enhanced UV resistance, and its tear-resistant nature ensures it holds up over long journeys.
Its windproof security system is comprehensive, featuring nine quick-release buckles and elastic tensioners for a rock-solid fit on your hitch rack. The package includes bonus buckle straps and reinforced hook straps for added stability, making it reliable even at high speeds.
IC ICLOVER Bike Cover for Transport on Rack, 600D Outdoor Storage
ICLOVER’s travel cover is built with premium 600D oxford cloth and a durable PU coating, making it twice as heavy as many competitors for enhanced durability. The professional-grade waterproofing can resist up to 5000PA water pressure, offering robust protection from rain, snow, and dust during transport.
Safety is a key design element. This cover features six high-visibility reflective strips and a hazard warning arrow pattern to improve visibility in low-light conditions and alert other drivers. It also includes lock holes at the front and back to help prevent theft. Please note it is designed for hitch mount racks only.
Szblnsm Bike Cover for 1, 2 or 3 Bikes Outdoor 420D Heavy Duty
Szblnsm uses a high-quality 420D fabric that is notably thicker than standard 210D materials, providing better tear resistance, waterproof performance, and a longer overall lifespan. This heavy-duty construction ensures constant protection for your bicycles through all four seasons.
The cover is designed for stability and security. It features elastic hems at the head and tail for easy installation, and a central windproof rope with a lock to prevent it from being blown away. An integrated anti-theft lock hole adds convenience and enhances the cover’s windproof performance.
ROWYEET Motorcycle Cover Waterproof Outdoor Storage with Lock-Holes
While marketed for motorcycles, this spacious cover from ROWYEET is an excellent option for covering multiple bicycles or larger e-bikes. Crafted from a three-layer 210D Oxford fabric structure, it is both waterproof and tear-resistant, offering reliable all-season protection.
Its large universal fit is designed to accommodate a wide range of vehicles. A significant safety feature is the reflective design, which incorporates reflective strips and a reflective handle to increase visibility at night, making it a smart choice for storage in dimly lit areas.
Classic Accessories OverDrive PolyPro 1 Motorcycle Cover
Classic Accessories is a well-regarded name in vehicle protection, and their OverDrive PolyPro cover brings that reputation to bike storage. While specific technical details for this model are not provided, the brand is known for producing durable, weather-resistant covers that offer reliable protection.
This cover is likely designed with the same quality materials and thoughtful features found in their other products, such as secure fit designs and soft inner linings to prevent scratches. It represents a trusted brand option for those seeking a straightforward and effective cover for their bike.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Car Cover for Your Bike
When I started looking for a car cover to use for my motorcycle in storage, I realized it wasn’t as simple as grabbing the cheapest tarp. A good cover does more than just keep dust off; it protects your bike from moisture, scratches, and even curious critters. The main thing I learned is that the material is the most important factor. You need to think about where your bike is stored.
For indoor storage, like a garage or shed, your primary enemies are dust and accidental scratches. A simple, lightweight, and soft cover is perfect here. I look for materials like flannel or soft polyester because they are gentle on paint and finishes. They are breathable, which prevents any trapped moisture from causing problems, even inside. A cover that is too heavy for indoor use can be a pain to put on and take off every time.
If your bike is stored outside, even just on a driveway, you need a much tougher cover. This is where you need to think about waterproofing and UV resistance. A cover that isn’t fully waterproof will trap humidity against your bike as temperatures change, leading to condensation and rust. I always check for terms like “waterproof” or “heavy-duty UV protection.” Multi-layer fabrics with a waterproof coating are my go-to for outdoor use. They fend off rain and prevent the sun from fading your paint and cracking your plastics.
Fit is another huge deal. A cover that is too loose will flap in the wind, and that constant movement will scratch your paint. A cover that is too tight is a struggle to get on and can stress seams. I always check the manufacturer’s sizing chart and measure my bike from the front tire to the back, including any bags or a tall windshield. Many covers come in small, medium, and large sizes, so taking a minute to measure saves a lot of hassle.
Finally, I look at the little features. A soft inner lining is a must to protect the finish. Straps or a buckle system at the bottom help secure the cover against wind. A grommet or vent is a nice bonus, as it allows air to flow and reduces the chance of the cover acting like a sail. For anyone putting a bike into long-term storage, investing in one of the 10 best car covers for bikes in storage is a simple and effective way to keep it in perfect shape until you’re ready to ride again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really use a car cover for my motorcycle?
Yes, absolutely. I have done this myself, and it works very well for long-term storage. The key is to make sure the cover is the right size. A small or medium car cover often fits a standard motorcycle nicely, draping over it to protect from dust, moisture, and bumps. Just be cautious that it’s not so large that it pools water on the ground or acts like a giant sail in a breezy garage.
What is the main risk of using a cover for indoor storage?
The biggest risk I’ve found is moisture. If you cover a bike that isn’t completely dry, or if you use a non-breathable cover in a humid space, you can trap moisture against the metal. This can lead to condensation, which promotes rust and mildew. Always ensure your bike is dry before covering it, and choose a breathable fabric for indoor use to let any residual moisture escape.
Are waterproof covers necessary for a bike in a garage?
For a bike stored in a fully enclosed, dry garage, a fully waterproof cover is usually overkill. In fact, a heavy, non-breathable waterproof cover can sometimes do more harm than good indoors by trapping humidity. I prefer a soft, lightweight, and breathable cover for garage storage. Its main jobs are to keep dust off and protect the finish from accidental scratches from other stored items.
How do I prevent the cover from scratching my bike’s paint?
This was a major concern of mine. The solution is to always use a cover with a soft inner lining, like flannel or fleece. Before I put the cover on, I give the bike a quick wipe-down to remove any loose dust or grit that could get trapped and act like sandpaper. Making sure the cover is a good fit, not too loose and flappy, also minimizes movement that can cause scratches.
Should I use a lock with my car cover for my bike?
If your bike is stored in a semi-public or unsecured area, a lock can be a good deterrent. Many covers come with a sewn-in grommet at the bottom for a cable lock. It won’t stop a determined thief, but it can prevent a casual one from quickly pulling the cover off to see what’s underneath or from easily taking the cover itself. For secure, private storage, a lock is usually unnecessary.
What size car cover should I get for my motorcycle?
You need to measure your bike. I measure from the front of the front tire to the back of the rear tire, and also consider the height, especially if you have a tall windshield or sissy bar. Generally, a small car cover fits most cruisers and standard bikes, while a medium might be better for full-dress touring motorcycles. Checking the specific product dimensions against your bike’s measurements is the best way to find a perfect fit for your needs.