How to safely store your motorcycle in self storage

Owning a motorcycle is an exciting experience but anyone who owns a motorbike will know how difficult it can be to find a safe and secure place to store it. Storing your bike on the drive, street or garage is an option that most people take but it’s not the best option as it can expose your bike to theft, vandalism and damage.

If you are looking for a secure way to store your motorbike then self storage is an excellent choice. Self-storage units are secure, and accessible and can protect your bike against, theft and other damage.

But not all storage units are built the same, and some could end up causing damage to your bike. In this post today we will look at the best ways you can store your motorcycle in a self storage unit and also some of the benefits of doing so. We will also provide you with some tips so you can store your bike and keep it in good condition.

Can you store a motorcycle in self storage?

Yes, you can store a motorcycle in a self storage unit, and it is often a great solution if you do not have a secure garage at home. Most storage facilities allow motorcycles as long as they are fully operational, drained of excess fuel to prevent leaks, and compliant with fire safety regulations. Before booking, check that the unit is large enough to comfortably fit your bike and allow access around it. Many riders choose storage units for winter months or when they are away for extended periods because they offer protection from weather, theft, and vandalism. Some facilities even provide climate-controlled units, which help prevent rust and corrosion, keeping your motorcycle in top condition.

Choosing the correct storage unit for your bike

Choosing the correct storage unit for your bike is crucial as all storage units are different. When it comes to storing items that can get damaged due to the weather you should opt for a storage unit that is temperature controlled.

A storage unit that is temperature controlled can minimise the temperature and humidity fluctuations that the British weather brings. Rises and falls in temperature can cause condensation to form and this can cause damage within your tank as well as the outside of your bike.

When you have found a storage company that accepts motorcycles in their storage units and they also have temperature-controlled units you will then need to move on to storing your bike.

Preparing your motorbike for storage

If you’re planning to store your motorbike in storage long term then you will need to take more care with your bike and will have to clean it thoroughly before putting on a bike cover.

You should also look to raise the bike off the floor not to damage your wheels and suspension finally it’s a good idea to store your bike with a full fuel tank, this minimises the amount of condensation which can form in the tank and cause damage long term.

However, if you are storing your bike and intend to use it within a few days then you don’t have to be as thorough as constant use will keep your bike in good shape. With that said, it’s always a good idea to keep your bike clean so the acids from any dirt or debris don’t damage the paint or plastics on your bike.

If you are storing your bike long term then you should disconnect your battery at this point. This will prevent the battery from damaging the electrics on your bike when not in use.

Finally, when your bike is off the ground you should use a motorcycle cover with breathable properties so it will be protected against any dust that can accumulate.

Benefits of using a storage unit to store your motorcycle

The thing with most riders is that we simply can’t make do with one bike and over time a collection builds. If your other half is having a go at you for having too many bikes or if you simply don’t have much room to store your one bike then storing it in a storage unit is a good idea.

Firstly, a storage unit will protect your bike against the elements. If you park your bike on the street or drive then the cold British weather will cause damage to it over time. A self storage unit can protect against this from happening.

Self storage facilities are monitored 24 hours a day too, unlike your garage which could be left alone when you sleep or you’re at work. This makes storing your motorcycle in a self-storage container much safer. Storage facilities not only have cameras but have electronic gates and security guards too.

Depending on where you live, having a garage could cost thousands of pounds for some of us that isn’t an option, but a self storage container is much cheaper and they don’t require you to take out any long contracts.

Why do people use self storage for motorcycles?

People use self storage for motorcycles for a variety of reasons. For some riders, it’s about freeing up space at home when they do not have a garage or have multiple bikes. Others choose self storage because it offers enhanced security compared to leaving a motorcycle on a driveway or street. Storage units also provide a safe solution during the winter months when bikes are not in use and need to be protected from harsh weather conditions. For collectors, self storage gives them a dedicated place to keep bikes in pristine condition without overcrowding their property.

Do storage units have bugs?

One concern some riders have is whether storage units have bugs that could damage their motorcycle or gear. Most reputable storage facilities have strict pest control measures in place to prevent infestations. Units are regularly inspected, and many are sealed to stop insects or rodents from getting inside. However, it is still a good idea to keep your bike clean, avoid storing any food in the unit, and use a breathable cover to add an extra layer of protection. Choosing a well-maintained facility will significantly reduce the risk of any pest-related issues.