A dedicated motorcycle shed is one of the things to store your motorcycle in. While there’s nothing quite like a real garage, a smaller shed can be a more practical options for riders with limited space. Today, there’s no shortage of useful storage options on the market. These products range from permanent motorcycle shed structures, to portable and collapsible motorcycle tents. Both are excellent choices, so we’re going to cover a mix of both styles in this list.
The more permanent structures are aimed at riders who want something strong, sturdy, and weatherproof that they can park their motorcycle in. These structures are ideal for heavy duty storage that keeps out the weather, but most importantly, keeps thieves at bay too. A solid structure is a great deterrent. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible for riders to build permanent sheds: they might not have the land owner’s permission, or they may not have the space. And that’s what makes the next style of motorcycle shed a viable alternative.
Temporary storage motorcycle sheds are very popular options. They come in a variety of styles, but the vast majority are floor-mounted structures with folding and retractable covers. These retractable motorcycle shed tents are great for riders who need to park up and store their motorcycle quickly, and for riders who have limited space. They’re actually great options for motorcyclists who have a garage too. Simply install them inside your garage for double protection, keeping dust and UV rays away from your pride and joy.
With both styles of motorcycle shed having pros and cons, we’re going to cover them both in our list of the best motorcycle storage shed and shelters that you can currently buy. Here they are.
Motorcycle Shed & Outdoor Shelter Buying Guide
You might have noticed from the list above that there are many different types of motorcycle shed. Obviously, if you have a good old fashioned brick and mortar garage, then there really is no replacement for it. However, some riders aren’t blessed with a garage and need an alternative motorcycle storage method. You want something that protects your bike, but it needs to be more heavy duty than your average motorcycle cover product.
So what should you be looking for? What types of outdoor storage tent or motorcycle shelter are available? This buying guide should give you a comprehensive overview of the types of products available on the market, and what features you should be looking out for.
The Types Of Outdoor Motorcycle Shed Available
Solid Sheds
A real heavy duty motorcycle shelter will have solid walls and a solid roof. These particular sheds are great for motorcycle storage and for performing maintenance. They keep the elements at bay and provide a strong shelter that can also keep your motorcycle safe from thieves. Unfortunately, they’re usually quite expensive. They’re permanent structures, and because of that, they won’t be for everyone.
Portable Tents
These tents are idea for those with limited space, a smaller budget, and who prefer something that can easily be removed if necessary. Essentially, these temporary sheds are life garden marquees or camping tents: they rely on a metal frame with a waterproof covering. They need to be staked to the ground to stop them from blowing away, but even then, additional tie-downs may be necessary. Generally, they’re very robust and quite affordable, but they may not suit everyone.
Retractable Covers
Some motorcycle shed alternatives include these specialist covers that have retractable, roll-down roofs. These make for great motorbike storage options for riders with limited space. In essence, these covers are a series of frames that are secured to the floor, with a concertina-style covering mechanism. The frames open and close, revealing a shell-like cover.
For the best results, it’s always recommended that you find a tent that can be secured to the floor permanently. That’s the best way to keep the elements out. Riders love these because you can easily ride onto their footprint, and park and cover your motorcycle in seconds. They are very useful for parking, but they’re not at all suited to rider’s who need space to perform maintenance.
Inflatable Storage Chambers
Lastly, there are inflatable storage chambers. These unusual-sounding storage sheds are more common than you might think. They’re the scaled-down motorcycle version of similar car-sized products. In short, they’re an inflatable dome that inflated around your motorcycle, keeping the elements, dust, and humidity at bay. They often come with moisture regulating fans and pumps, with additional vents and protection too.
They’re excellent for adding extra protection to an already protected motorcycle, but they may struggle if used outdoors in inclement weather. Light rain and a gentle breeze would be no problem, but strong winds and heavy precipitation will definitely damage the bubble-effect of these unusual motorcycle shelters. In conclusion: great for indoor protection, may work outside, but only if the weather is ok; plus, they’re generally quite expensive, so that might put off unsure buyers too.
Important Things To Consider
Since every rider has different criteria that they look out for when selecting a motorcycle shed, and no shelter is truly universal, there are quite a few different details that you should keep in mind when you’re searching for an outdoor storage option. Here are the most important things to consider when shopping:
Size
This is probably the most important thing to consider, and you need to think carefully about it because there are two reasons why size is important. Firstly, you need to consider the size of the space where you plan to use the shed. If space is a premium, you may need to opt for a shelter with the smallest footprint possible. If you’ve got more space to play with, perhaps you can opt for a larger shed which actually has enough space for you to work on your motorcycle while it’s parked too?
Secondly, there’s the size of your motorcycle. It’s important that you measure the length, width, and height of your motorcycle before you buy anything. Adventure motorcycles can be taller than the average bike, cruisers can have longer wheelbases, and touring bike with additional bags can be very wide. Take all of these things into consideration while you’re shopping around.
Installation
Don’t buy something you can’t assemble. It’s as simple as that. When searching, it’s always important to look at the reviews, because many reviewers will mention if a structure was easy to assemble or if it was a nightmare. Even if something is easy to install, ask yourself if you have all the skills and tools necessary to do the job. It’s all very well buying a bargain price shelter to save some money, but if it requires you to buy a whole collection of new power tools to assemble it, it’s not much good to you.
Similarly, it’s always worth looking at whether installation requires any permanent anchors or not. If you have to make holes in the ground or in a wall, this may affect your purchasing decision.
Permanent Or Temporary?
Following on directly from the last point, you should ask yourself whether you’re looking for a permanent or temporary structure. Temporary structures are generally cheaper and easier to install, but they’re not as robust as their permanent counterparts. They’re much more portable though, and you can use them in a variety of different places. Permanent structures are harder to install, require more effort, and cost considerably more. In return, they offer superior elemental protection and far more every-day practicality. Deciding what type of motorcycle shed you need can be difficult!
Air Flow
Ventilation is very important when it comes to motorcycle storage. You want to keep your motorcycle covered up to protect it from the rain, but moisture can easily build up when your pride and joy is safely under cover too. Whatever kind of shed, shelter, or protective cover you decide to purchase, make sure that there’s adequate ventilation. Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, it can also dull paint work and metals, and it can perish rubber components. It’s often over-looked, but whatever you do, don’t forget about air-flow!
Security
Motorcycle security is another factor that all riders should take into consideration. Thieves are everywhere, and motorcycles are very easy prey. However, a motorcycle shed is one extra layer of protection that will definitely help to deter even the most determined thieves. Combine a motorcycle shed, or shelter, or cover, with a number of locks and chains, and you can guarantee that a potential thief will take one look at your setup and move on to easier pickings.
Every layer of protection extends the time that a theft can take, and every moment increases the likelihood of a thief getting caught. Take your motorcycle’s overall security into account when you’re shopping around for a shelter to park your bike in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should A Motorcycle Shed Be Made Of?
The main material for your motorcycle shed greatly depends on your situation. If you’re on a budget or find yourself with limited space, then a plastic covering will do the job. It will be easy to assemble, cheap, and fairly durable. However, if you have the space, the funds, and the time, a stronger storage shed made from metal or wood will be a far superior option. They’re more versatile and practical, plus you can store more than just a motorcycle in them.
Does A Motorcycle Shed Need To Be Waterproof?
Yes. This is essential. All motorcycle storage covers, sheds, and garages are built and designed purely to keep your motorcycle protected from the elements. If you’ve got a shed that isn’t waterproof, you should scrap it and replace it with something that is.
