How To Choose a Motorcycle Cover That Won’t Scratch Your Paint?

How To Choose a Motorcycle Cover That Won’t Scratch Your Paint

So, you’ve finally got your dream motorcycle. The paint job is top-notch and it looks like something out of a magazine. But guess what? The moment you leave it outside without a motorcycle cover, nature is going to ruin it. Rain, dust, UV rays, and even scratches from a low-quality cover can turn your motorcycle into a weather-worn machine.

This is why choosing the right motorcycle cover is not just about protection, it’s about keeping your ride looking straight-out-of-showroom fresh. And if you think all covers are the same, think again. Let’s see how to pick a cover that actually shields your bike without leaving those nasty scratches behind.

What Happens When You Use the Wrong Cover?

Scratches. Yes, that’s right. When you put a cheap plastic cover on your bike, you are going to find tons of micro-scratches on your vehicle. There are a few reasons behind this:

Rough Inner Lining: Some covers have abrasive inner layers that act like sandpaper, leaving scratches every time the cover shifts. Cheap materials can feel smooth at first but degrade quickly. This causes damage to your paint over time.

Loose Fit: A cover that flaps in the wind and grinds dust and debris into your bike’s surface. If your cover is not snug, the constant movement will turn tiny particles into abrasive agents.

Trapped Moisture and Dirt: If a cover does not have breathable material, it will lock in dirt and moisture, leading to corrosion, mildew, and paint damage. And we all know that rust formation accelerates when moisture gets trapped underneath anything.

Cheap Materials: Low-quality covers can degrade quickly, they can stick to the paint, and leave a residue that is a nightmare to clean. Some dirt-cheap covers even contain chemicals that react with your bike’s finish, causing permanent damage.

What to Look for in a Motorcycle Cover and Factors to Consider?

To make sure your motorcycle covers protect your bike without damaging it, look for these key features:

Stay Away From Cheap, Low-Quality Covers

First things first, avoid cheap covers at all costs. Those flimsy covers might as well be made of sandpaper. Cheap materials don’t just fail at protecting your bike, they rub against the surface and cause micro-scratches over time. On the other hand, high-quality motorcycle covers are designed with soft inner lining materials like microfiber or fleece that prevent any abrasive contact. 

Choose the Right Fit

A cover that is too loose will flap around in the wind, rubbing against your bike. And one that’s too tight will cause pressure marks and stress on delicate areas like your gas tank. Look for covers that come in specific size options. Established brands offer multiple sizing options ensuring a snug and secure fit.

Features to Secure It

You will find that good motorcycle covers come with adjustable straps, elastic hems, and grommets to keep it in place. If your cover moves too much due to wind or improper fitting, it will constantly rub against your bike’s surface leading to scratches over time. 

To give you a pro tip: if your cover does not have built-in security features, use a bungee cord to keep it in place. 

Waterproof But Does Not Trap Water

An outdoor motorcycle waterproof cover is essential to keep rain and other elements off your bike. But you also don’t want a cover that traps water inside. Look for waterproof yet breathable materials that let moisture escape while blocking rain, snow, and humidity. 

Silverguard motorcycle covers, for example, use a 300 Denier Silver-coated polyester fabric that protects against water but still allows airflow. And this is exactly what you want. 

UV Protection

You might think that UV rays can not scratch your bike. But long-term exposure to the sun can fade your paint. This is why it’s essential to choose a motorcycle cover that includes UV protection. It keeps your motorcycle paint job pristine and prevents sun damage.

Be Mindful of Your Bike’s Condition Before Covering It

Even the best motorcycle covers can cause scratches if you cover a dirty bike. Dirt and dust act like tiny blades when trapped under a cover. It can cause scratches on your paint when the cover moves.

Before covering your bike, make sure to:

Wash it properly and wipe down your bike before putting the cover on.

Dry it completely to avoid the buildup of moisture.

Let the hot parts cool down (especially the exhaust and engine area).

Additional Tips to Store the Cover When Not in Use

Even a high-quality cover can become a scratch risk if you don’t store it properly. If you toss it on the ground or fold it carelessly, dirt and debris can cling to the fabric.

Follow these simple steps:

Shake off any debris before folding it.

Store it in a clean bag or container.

Never drag it on rough surfaces before covering your bike again.

Wrapping Up

Choosing a motorcycle cover that won’t scratch your paint is not difficult, but it does require some attention to detail Avoid cheap materials, look for soft linings, and prioritize a snug fit. Don’t let a bad cover ruin your precious possessions. Invest in high-quality outdoor motorcycle waterproof covers and your ride will stay looking brand new for years to come.