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Your bike needs some sort of protection if you park it outside.
Some people like bike covers, but others find them tedious.
Taking them off and storing them every time you ride and waiting for the bike to cool before putting them on is not ideal. Luckily, there’s an alternative.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Motorcycle Shelters And Tents
- OUR TOP PICK: Quictent MS-001K-M-1
- RUNNER-UP: Mophorn Motorcycle Shelter
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: ShelterLogic Storage Shed
Comparison of the Best Motorcycle Shelters and Tents
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What is a Motorcycle Shelter and What is it Used For?
Motorcycle shelters are an alternative to a motorcycle cover. Some of them are small and fit just over the bike while others look more like portable sheds. These shelters protect your motorcycle against wind, rain, and dust. They have a lot of other uses, too.
What is a Motorcycle Tent Used For?
Depending on the style, motorcycle tents can be used in a variety of ways. Some of them are small and specifically meant to cover only a bike. Others are much bigger and are essentially large, portable sheds. This style can be used in many ways, like camping, storing lawn and garden equipment, and more.
What Size Motorcycle Shelter Do I Need?
The size that you need depends on how you want to use it. If you want something that’s designed strictly for a motorcycle, look at the sizing guidelines from the manufacturer. Some products are available in multiple sizes so you must make sure you find the right one for you.
If you want something bigger, there are plenty of large coverings out there that can be used to store your bike and a lot of other things as well, like pool toys, lawnmowers, and bicycles.
Review of the Best Motorcycle Shelters and Tents
There’s a lot to think about when choosing a motorcycle tent or shelter. To help take the guesswork out of your decision, we rounded up some of the best products to help you decide.
Best Overall:
Quictent MS-001K-M-1
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Some recent buyers mention that this tent remained effective through hurricanes, though not everyone has this experience. There were a few reports that the shelter wasn’t that sturdy. One thing that most people agree on is excellent customer service. Even when there was a problem, the company took the necessary steps to fix it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The waterproof fabric protects not only against water but also wind and UV light. We love the ventilation windows and rollup flaps. This is an easy way to prevent condensation from building up, risking more damage.
The heavy-duty powder-coated steel frame is strong and durable, and we love how easily it opens so you can ride your motorcycle right out. Another great thing is that this tent comes with a one-year warranty, and the company is known for providing good customer service.
One thing to note is that this shelter comes in two sizes, so make sure you choose the one that is right for your bike.
Bottom Line
With its durable steel frame and thick, waterproof 600D Oxford fabric, this shelter provides the protection you’re looking for. It has an awesome ventilation system, too, so you don’t have to worry about condensation and rust.
Runner-up:
Mophorn Motorcycle Shelter
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people agree that this shelter does what it’s supposed to do. It’s durable and effectively protects against the elements. Some people mentioned that they had a difficult time fitting windshields and rearview mirrors under the tent, though. Assembly is straightforward, but the instructions aren’t very clear.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This tent is designed for outdoor use. The black powder-coated frame and waterproof material resist wind, dust, snow, rain, and harsh sunlight, providing well-rounded protection. We like the galvanized bracket that supports the cover, too, because it provides extra stability while resisting rust and corrosion.
The ventilation windows are a great feature. A rollup flap on each side reveals mesh windows that let air circulate under the shelter. This prevents moisture and heat from building up when the bike is parked. You can also attach the frame to the ground with bolts for additional security.
Bottom Line
We love the durable frame and the thick, waterproof fabric. While the instructions aren’t great, assembly is pretty straightforward. Some users found this one to be a little too short to cover windscreens and mirrors, so make sure you know the dimensions of your bike before ordering.
Best for the Money:
ShelterLogic Storage Shed
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people agree that this shelter is sturdy and provides a lot of storage space. The frame is extremely durable and will likely outlast the cover. A lot of people mentioned some problems with assembly, specifically that the hardware is all mixed and the instructions are confusing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The thing that stands out the most about this shelter is its size. The all-steel frame and large gray cover give you 60 square feet of storage, which is enough space for even the widest cruisers with some room leftover.
The ratchet tightening system keeps the cover tight and looking neat, and the steel stabilizers keep the frame rock solid. As for that material, it protects against rain, wind, sun, and snow. We love that the seams are heat-sealed to keep them watertight. This product also comes with a one-year warranty, which is always nice.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a tent that’s big enough to cover any motorcycle, this is the one for you. The durable frame and strong material are made to last, and the ratchet tightening system keeps it looking neat. And, don’t forget about the one-year warranty.
Best Portable Motorcycle Shelter:
Abba Patio Outdoor Storage Shelter
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most people agree that assembly is pretty straightforward and that this tent does its job. It’s very lightweight, so some people added additional anchors to weigh it down. Generally, buyers commented that this shed is great for temporary storage and stands up to wind and wet weather better than expected.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love the heavy-duty steel frame and the metal corner joints. The construction is sturdy and stable enough to stand up to high winds. The powder coating protects against rust and corrosion, helping to extend the life of the product.
As for the fabric, the triple-layer design is tough. It’s water and UV-resistant, ideal for protecting your motorcycle from bad weather and harsh sunlight. The detachable zipper door adds an extra layer of protection when you need it.
One of the best things about this shelter is the size. If you have a large bike that doesn’t fit comfortably under other shelters or covers, this product is a great solution.
Bottom Line
This tent has everything you need to keep your motorcycle sheltered from the elements. The powder-coated frame resists rust and corrosion, and the fabric protects against everything from snow to harsh sunlight.
Best Motorcycle Shelter With Floor:
CarCapsule Cover and Storage
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
One of the things that buyers report over and over is that this capsule cover is very easy to set up. Most people were impressed with the quality, but others had a difficult time with sizing. Another issue that people mentioned is that it takes up a lot of space.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What stands out about this bike to us is the same thing that probably sticks out to everyone. It looks cool. Luckily, it’s also an extremely durable and effective choice for protecting your motorcycle.
The bubble is made from durable double-polished PVC with sealed seams and is effective at keeping out dust, wind, and water. The base mat is even more durable. It tolerates oil, gas, and antifreeze and is abrasion, mildew, and flame resistant.
As for the fan, it provides continuous airflow, helping keep moisture out of the capsule and off of your bike. This also maintains a normal internal temperature so you don’t have to worry about it getting too hot.
Bottom Line
This unique motorcycle shelter is a nice size and works well with bikes of all shapes and sizes. The base mat and bubble material are exceptionally durable, and the included fan maintains an even temperature and prevents condensation.
Best Retractable Motorcycle Shelter:
The Bike Shield Standard Shelter
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are satisfied with this cover, commenting that it’s easy to use and well worth the money. Some felt it was a bit tricky to assemble, but others had no problem. It does a phenomenal job of protecting against rain, but it’s very lightweight and should be secured to the ground.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike shelter is the perfect solution to having to constantly remove and replace a cover. The metal frame is made of a cross plate and locking system with galvanized metal that resists rust and corrosion.
The cover has a heavy-duty polyurethane coating. It resists water and protects against harsh UV light. Plus, thanks to the no-contact exhaust pipe and exhaust cover, you don’t have to wait for your bike to cool, just park and cover.
There’s a cover for every bike, too. This product comes in small, medium, and large sizes. Each is covered by a one-year warranty.
Bottom Line
This tent is a great alternative to a standard bike cover, and it’s much easier to use. The durable material keeps out rain and moisture and protects against wind. And, thanks to the no-contact pipe and exhaust cover, you don’t have to wait for your bike to cool off before using it.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Here are the main things to think about when choosing a motorcycle tent for you:
Size
As mentioned, some of these shelters are specifically designed for a motorcycle. You must get the right size or you risk it not fitting over the windshield or rearview mirrors. Other tents are much larger and are more like temporary sheds than a motorcycle cover. If you go this route, you can choose one that’s just the right size for your bike or go a little bigger if you want more storage space.
Material
Make sure the product you choose has a frame that will stand up to the elements. Powder-coated metal is a great choice. The coating protects the metal from corrosion and rust, making sure it maintains its integrity for a long time to come.
The material of the covering matters, too. The stronger it is, the longer it will last. In most cases, the frames outlast the covers so getting a high-quality cover can extend the life of the shelter significantly.
Ventilation
Ventilation is important because, without it, condensation can build up under the cover and damage your bike. The point of these covers is to keep water off of your motorcycle. Condensation under the tent may not be the same as heavy rain, but it can still cause damage.
Types of Motorcycle Shelters and Tents
There are a few different types of motorcycle shelters to consider:
Capsule
This is the most unique type of motorcycle tent. It consists of a bubble-like enclosure that encapsulates the bike. It has a durable base for the bike to sit on and a layer of thick plastic that covers the bike. This style comes with a fan that keeps the capsule inflated, moving air around constantly and keeping condensation away.
Motorcycle-Specific
This type of tent is designed for the size and shape of a motorcycle. They are essentially motorcycle covers with structural support. When you’re done riding, simply drive the bike into the tent and cover. A lot of designs have mesh windows with rollup covers that you can open when necessary to prevent condensation.
Shed
Shed-like tents are the most versatile motorcycle covers. They come in a range of sizes and can be used for multiple things. You can get a small one that’s just the right size for your bike or a larger one where you can also keep tools and other things you need for care and maintenance. These structures are temporary sheds and can be used for just about anything.
Motorcycle Shelter vs Cover - Comparison Overview
You might be wondering about the differences between a motorcycle shelter and a cover. While they serve the same general purpose, they each have pros and cons.
Covers are convenient and portable. You can fold them up and take them with you if you’re traveling, and they’re easy to get on and off the bike. That said, they’re a little tedious. Every time you ride, you have to take the cover off and store it. When you get home, you have to wait until the bike cools down and then replace it.
Shelters are a little more involved. They’re semi-permanent and take some time to construct. Once they’re ready, though, they’re reliable and easy to use. All you have to do is park your bike and close the shelter.
The biggest issue with shelters is that you have to have space for them. If you have an apartment or a small yard, you might not have the room you need to set up a large shelter. That said, they are available in multiple sizes, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one that suits your needs and fits your space.
Conclusion
You know your motorcycle needs protection against the elements, but finding the right way to provide this protection isn’t straightforward.
Most people assume that a standard motorcycle cover is the only option, but there are a lot of shelters and tents out there that do an amazing job.
People Also Ask
If you’re still not sure about what shelter is best for you, we’re here to help. Here are some of the most common things that people wonder about when shopping for a motorcycle tent.
How to Store a Motorcycle Without a Garage
A cover can get you through, but it’s not the best long term solution. A motorcycle tent or shelter is semi permanent and provides the reliable and effective protection you need to keep your bike safe from the elements.
Are Motorcycle Storage Tents Portable?
Yes, though depending on the style, moving them isn’t particularly convenient. Some of the smaller tents are easy enough to take with you if you’re traveling and it’s not a problem moving them from one spot to another in front of your house.
What is Motorcycle Camping?
Motorcycle camping is nothing more than camping with your motorcycle. Since you don’t have a big truck or van to fill with supplies, you’re somewhat limited in what you can bring. But with the right motorcycle and careful planning, you can bring along everything you need to enjoy some time on the open road, sleeping under the stars.
Can a Tent Hold Both a Motorcycle and a Person?
The right tent can! Some of the shelters we chose can double as a tent and a shelter for your bike when camping. There are also camping tents that are designed with small porches or entry rooms that would be perfect for you and your bike.
Other Motorcycle Buyer Guides
Below are some other guides related to motorcycles: