Does anyone do this, one they use regularly? Do you have it under a cover; if so what type is better to keep it dry? I previously 10 years ago had a very thin plastic thing that kept tearing but surely there are thicker ones available now? Thanks.
you could get big heavy ones 10 years ago. I've got one in my garage. Oxford products IIRC. The problem then is where to keep it when you use the bike (how often are you planning to use it? If you are simply keeping it and not using it, I'd tape some sandwich bags over the exhausts, and possibly look at blocking up the air intake). Also, if buying again, I'd look for one with built-in strap to go under the bike to stop it blowing away. And a BFO lock
It will be down the side of our house, probably used twice a week. I was going to put some ground anchors in to take the two BFO locks. Is there a problem with condensation with the covers, i guess not as long as there is decent airflow?
I'll not risk the wrath of the aircon mafia on here when it comes to condensation... I don't recall any. Do you have anywhere to store the cover? when I last used a cover (cripes, 17 years ago) when I lived at my parents, the big faff was having to put the cover in the garage (scandalously full of car), and then get going. If you can get, eg a plastic shedlet to keep the cover handy for where you park and dry, that would be my top tip.
If you are not using the access way have you thought about something like this instead, less chance of direct contact of bike and plastic https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Large-Mo...06&rk=1&rkt=1&&_trksid=p2045573.c100506.m3226 I have also in the past in a narrow space, bought a second hand 8x6 shed from gumtree and cut it to size and then attach it to the wall. it ended up being a 8ft long by 4ft wide and all for £20. I did have to dissemble it but that helped with reassembly.
I kept my panigale outside for almost 3 years in a bike tent. Was pretty good all year round, didn’t leak and had vents which I use to open up during the day to keep condensation down. Cost just over £100 I think.
For many years now my bike has lived outside, ever since I moved from a house with a garage to a flat in 2005. In that time I've had a Kawasaki ZRX1200R, Monster 1100, Monster 1100evo and a Streetfighter 848. They don't seem to suffer too much from being kept under a cover compared to being in a garage. I currently have an Oxford cover (not sure which model) that has an elasticated bottom that seems to be ok. My previous Oxford Stormex only lasted a couple of years before it started getting holes and suffering from the effects of sunlight. It was also slightly too big for the SF so the bottom touched the ground. I have found that having the bottom just off the ground allows airflow under the cover and prevents condensation.
Throw any waterproof cover on it that allows air underneath and around the bike, spray the non safety-critical (not brakes, tyres, etc) parts with WD-40, or some more expensive stuff if you like. Will be fine.
http://www.specialisedcovers.com/bike-covers I usually keep bikes indoors, but if I leave one outside I use these. Very substantial and robust, not prone to flap or tear. Good service from the suppliers (who are in Shipley, Yorkshire).
I have and Oxford cover with waterproof outside and soft inner in good condition(been used for 1/2 year only) You could have it for free. SE London-Kent area.
