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Takeaway: You can store a motorcycle in a garage or shed, a covered or uncovered parking space, or an indoor self-storage unit. Before renting, confirm the facility’s rules for motorcycles, fuel, insurance and access. Consider a larger unit if you also want to store riding gear or seasonal household items.
Whether you’re storing your motorcycle for a season or an extended break, taking the steps to prepare it for storage is the best way to keep it in mint condition. Without the right care, you may find yourself dealing with issues like corrosion and battery failure down the line, which can be expensive to fix. In this guide, we’ll give you a rundown of proper motorcycle storage techniques so you can rest easy knowing your bike will be ready to hit the road when the time comes.
1. Reasons to Store Your Motorcycle
Motorcycle storage isn’t just for occasional riders — it’s a practical solution for many different types of motorbike owners. Some reasons you may want to store your bike include:
- You ride mainly in the warmer months and need a safe place to store your motorcycle during the off-season, especially if you live in a climate with a harsh winter.
- You’re in the military and need a safe place to store your bike while stationed abroad or away from home.
- You live in an apartment or home with limited storage space or no garage/parking spot.
- You travel often and prefer to keep your bike in storage rather than leave it parked unattended.
- You’re a mechanic or hobbyist working on multiple bikes or long-term restoration projects and want to use a storage unit to keep your projects organized and out of the elements. (Remember, you’re not allowed actually to work on your motorbike inside of a storage unit!)
- You’re in the middle of a move or renovation and want to keep your bike safely stored during the transition to prevent damage.
- You’ve inherited a motorcycle and need a place to store it temporarily while you figure out what to do with it.
2. Key Considerations for Motorcycle Storage
Before you store your motorcycle, think about (1) how long it will be stored, (2) how often you’ll need to access it and (3) how much protection it needs. If you’re considering self storage, you’ll also need to confirm that the facility accepts motorcycles and that your bike meets its vehicle-storage requirements.
Facility Rules and Requirements
Motorcycle storage policies vary by facility, so before renting you should confirm that motorcycles are allowed in the unit or parking space you’re looking at. Ask whether you’ll need to provide current registration and insurance, whether there are limits on the amount of fuel the bike can contain and whether the motorcycle must be operational. You should also confirm that the unit’s location, doorway and access route can accommodate your bike.
Security
Consider how the motorcycle will be secured, and what security features are available at the property. Depending on the location, a storage facility may offer gated entry, perimeter fencing, individually alarmed units or 24/7 surveillance. If you’re storing a valuable or rare bike, an indoor unit can provide more privacy and protection than an outdoor parking space. You can also use a motorcycle lock or other appropriate anti-theft device for extra protection and peace of mind.
Location and Accessibility
If you’re storing your bike for an entire season, price and availability may matter more than choosing the closest facility. However, if you plan on accessing your bike regularly, choosing a facility that’s closer to home or on your usual commute may be more convenient. Just remember to consider the facility’s gate and office hours, since access schedules vary by location.
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Storage Unit Size
If you go with an indoor storage unit, make sure it’s large enough to store your bike and easily move in and out to avoid accidental damage. For a single motorcycle, a 5’ x 10’ unit typically offers enough room, but the right size depends on the motorcycle’s dimensions and the unit’s layout.
Think beyond the motorcycle when choosing a size. A larger unit can also give you space for helmets, riding gear, tools and seasonal household belongings, helping you free up room in a small apartment, garage or closet. You can use our size guide to help you estimate the amount of space you’ll need.
Climate Control and Weather Protection
Motorcycles, especially those with delicate electrical components, leather details or custom parts, can be sensitive to moisture and extreme or rapidly changing temperatures. If you’re storing your bike for an extended period or in an area with harsh weather, a climate-controlled unit is worth the investment. These units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels, helping to prevent rust, corrosion and moisture buildup that can damage your bike’s interior and exterior. This is especially true if you’re planning on storing your bike long-term.
Note: Climate-controlled units are not the same as temperature-controlled, air-cooled or heated units. Only climate-controlled units regulate both temperature and humidity. The others only regulate temperature.
3. Types of Motorcycle Storage Options
You have several options when it comes to storing your motorcycle, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding your storage needs and the resources you have will help you choose the best option for your bike.
At Home: Garage, Shed or Driveway
Storing your motorcycle at home is the most convenient option, especially if you have a garage, secure shed or permitted driveway space. A fully enclosed garage or shed offers more protection than a driveway, though your bike will still be exposed to temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Motorcycles can also take up space at home that you could use to store other items or transform into a home gym, game room or recreational area. If you’re finding that your home is beginning to feel cluttered, moving your motorcycle to a storage unit can be a great way to clear room, especially during the off-season.
Uncovered Self-Storage Parking Space
An uncovered parking space at a self-storage facility is one of the more budget-friendly options for storing your bike. You’ll benefit from the facility’s security measures, but it leaves your motorcycle fully exposed to sun, rain, snow and temperature changes. If you choose this option, you should absolutely use a fitted outdoor motorcycle cover and follow the manufacturer’s storage recommendations to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
If you’re just looking for short-term storage and/or live in a mild climate, an uncovered parking space may work for your needs. For anything else, covered parking or an indoor unit is generally a safer bet.
Covered Self-Storage Parking Space
A covered parking space at a self-storage facility can protect your motorcycle from direct sun, rain and snow. Because the space isn’t fully enclosed, however, the bike will still be exposed to temperature changes, humidity and windblown debris, all of which can damage your motorcycle.
Covered parking may cost less than an indoor unit and can be a practical choice for short-term or seasonal storage. Furthermore, you’ll still get to take advantage of the storage facility’s security features, including surveillance and gated access.
4. Indoor Self-Storage Unit
An indoor storage unit offers the highest level of protection, giving your bike full shelter from weather and keeping it out of public view. Many facilities have drive-up units, which allow you to bring your motorcycle directly to the unit door for easy storage and retrieval.
That said, remember that not every indoor or climate-controlled unit can accommodate a motorcycle. Indoor hallways, elevators, doorway dimensions, fire codes and facility policies may limit vehicle storage. Before reserving a unit, confirm that motorcycles are allowed and ask about access, fuel, registration and insurance requirements.
If you’re storing your motorcycle long-term or have a vintage or high-value bike, a climate-controlled unit is your best option.
Here’s a quick recap of your storage choices:
| Storage option | Protection | Best for |
|
Garage or shed at home |
Pros: Good protection when fully enclosed Cons: Takes up valuable space; temperature and humidity may fluctuate |
Riders with secure space available at home |
| Uncovered self-storage parking |
Pros: Gated access and video surveillance Cons: Limited protection from weather; a motorcycle cover is recommended |
Affordable, short-term storage |
| Covered self-storage parking |
Pros: Protects against direct sun and precipitation; more affordable than indoor unit Cons: Not fully enclosed; temperature and humidity may fluctuate |
Seasonal storage at a moderate price |
| Indoor self-storage unit |
Pros: Provides the most protection from weather and keeps the bike out of sight Cons: Most expensive option |
Long-term, winter or high-value motorcycle storage |
4. Motorcycle Storage Tips: How to Winterize Your Bike
Once you know where you’re storing your bike, it’s important to properly prepare (winterize) your motorcycle, especially for long-term or cold-weather storage. This will help prevent damage and ensure your bike is ready to ride when you take it out of storage in the spring. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but general steps include:
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Clean and protect it. Wash and thoroughly dry the bike, then wax painted surfaces and lubricate the chain and other specified moving parts.
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Check the fuel and fluids. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fuel stabilizer, oil, coolant and brake fluid. Confirm the storage facility’s fuel requirements before filling the tank.
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Maintain the battery. Disconnect or remove it if recommended, or use a compatible automatic battery maintainer in an approved location.
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Protect the tires. Inflate them to the recommended pressure and use a motorcycle stand if appropriate for long-term storage.
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Cover the bike. Use a clean, breathable motorcycle cover rather than plastic, which can trap condensation.
Ready to find space for your motorcycle and riding gear? Use our Storage Locator to explore nearby options. Before renting, contact the facility to confirm motorcycle eligibility and requirements for fuel, insurance, registration and unit access. For more storage and organization tips, visit the SmartStop blog.
5. Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store a motorcycle in a self-storage unit?
Yes, many self-storage facilities allow motorcycles in indoor units or designated vehicle-storage spaces. Rules vary, so you should always confirm motorcycle eligibility with the facility before renting a unit.
What size storage unit do you need for a motorcycle?
A 5-by-10-foot unit can usually accommodate one motorcycle, depending on the bike’s dimensions and the unit layout. Consider a larger unit if you also want to store riding gear, tools, seasonal belongings or household items.
Does a motorcycle need to be insured while in storage?
A storage facility may require proof of insurance or another form of stored-property coverage. Your rental agreement doesn’t necessarily insure the motorcycle, so confirm the facility’s requirements and review your own policy.
Can you store a motorcycle with gas in the tank?
Fuel rules vary by facility. Some locations may require a nearly empty tank, while motorcycle winterization guidance often recommends a full stabilized tank, so always follow the storage facility’s specific requirements.
Can you work on a motorcycle inside a storage unit?
Generally, no. Storage units are intended for storing vehicles and belongings, not for performing repairs, maintenance or restoration work.
What else can you keep in a motorcycle storage unit?
Depending on the unit size and facility rules, you may also be able to store helmets, jackets, riding accessories and certain household or seasonal belongings. Leave a clear path around the motorcycle and do not store flammable liquids, fuel containers or other prohibited items.
