Even in the mildest climate, it's not a good idea to store your motorcycle uncovered and unprotected. Shelter for your bike is necessary to protect the paint, upholstery, tires, and motor from the damaging effects of rain, snow, freezing temperatures, the sun's UV rays, and dust and debris. A designated motorcycle garage may be your dream, but most likely you'll be parking and storing your bike in your attached residential garage along with your other vehicles, household storage items, sporting equipment, lawn care tools, and everything else that gets designated to that area of the home. But that's okay! With just a few smart garage ideas, you'll be able to create the perfect motorcycle storage area (and maybe even the motorcycle maintenance workspace) of your dreams.
Smart Motorcycle Garage Storage Solutions
A custom-designed garage storage system is the perfect way to create your dream motorcycle garage. Mix and match the following elements to suit your own needs:
- Garage Wall Cabinets keep every tool and every piece of equipment out of sight, organized, and protected.
- Garage Shelving Units are wonderful for grab-and-go convenience.
- Garage Hanging Soft Bins work great for when you want semi-closed storage for a put-together look.
- Garage Wall Hooks that are uniquely designed to give two different hanging points for helmets, gloves, and jackets keep everything right at hand.
As for your bike, even when it's stored in a garage, consider using a motorcycle cover. It's an excellent way to shield your bike from scrapes, dents, dirt, and dust. It also adds an extra layer of protection for the temperature fluctuations from day to night and throughout the seasons. Before storing your bike long term, such as for the winter season, take an hour and service your bike properly so it will stay in top condition and be ready to ride as soon as the weather warms up. If you are thinking of turning a portion of your garage into a motorcycle workshop area, you may want to invest in a work stand that lifts and holds your bike off the ground so you can reach underneath with ease.
Motorcycle Safety Tips for Passengers
Even if you are a seasoned motorcyclist, keep in mind that your passenger may not be. Apart from ensuring they wear a helmet and protective clothing, here are a few other important things to teach your passengers that will make the ride safer and more comfortable for both of you.
- Always wait for the rider to tell you it's okay to mount or dismount.
- It is customary to get on or off the motorcycle from the left side.
- Make sure the passenger footpegs are down, keep your feet on them, and beware of the hot exhaust pipes, drive chain, and rear wheel.
- The best place to hold on to is the rider's hips.
- Position yourself perfectly for a turn by always looking over the rider's shoulder in the direction they are turning and keep your body in line with their body. When the rider brakes, resist sliding forward into the rider's body by pressing your feet against the footpegs. Use your thigh muscles to control your position on the seat.
- Stay alert, prepared, and anticipate turns and brakes so you can move your body accordingly.
- Help the rider be on the lookout for potential hazards and dangers on the road. If you spot one that you think the rider is unaware of, tap the rider on the appropriate shoulder and point at the hazard to bring it to the rider's attention.
With these few garage storage solutions and motorcycle safety tips for passengers, you and your bike will be in tip-top shape and ready to ride-like-the-wind all season long.
